Estonian designer Hiie Harm of Hiie Harm Design recently faced an unusual challenge: creating an American-style kitchen for a Northern European family of six. Most European kitchens, particularly in the Scandinavian region, are on the small side, with minimalist lines and little detailing. However, the mother in this family cooks often and uses several different small kitchen appliances, although her current space left little room for them.

More Workspace: Because of the location of the plumbing, the dishwasher and the kitchen sink could not be relocated. To create more workspace, the ovens were put in a tall cabinet and close to the windows. A narrow column of open shelving was placed next to the ovens to house items like cookbooks.

A Traditional Gathering Place: “My biggest problem was thinking out the size and shape of the island,” said Harm, explaining that she wanted to be able to seat four around the island without impeding the traffic flow.

The resulting layout features an extended counter on one end solely for seating. The rest of the island includes additional storage, as well as open shelves for display.

The Coffee Nook and Display Case: On one side of the kitchen, Harm installed white upper cabinets with glass inserts, both for creating a light and airy feel and to offer the client a place to display her glassware. Below this display area is a long countertop that can house small appliances, including the coffee maker.

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