KITCHEN MAGIC | Right after Bridget and Dave Placek bought their home in tree-lined Montclair, NJ, they contacted Rachael Grochowski, whose RHG Architecture + Design firm is on hip Church Street in that same community.
Grochowski updated the 1897 Mediterranean style villa into a livable space, perfect for entertaining, for the Placeks’ large family.
Working with contractor Jack Finn, Grochowski created an airy kitchen. A custom white oak table stores under the counter and slides out for company, while the picture window offers a view of deer, foxes and butterflies. Out went the eat-in nook, butler’s pantry, and servants’ staircase, and in came a desk, wet bar, “secret doors” leading to a spacious pantry and mud room, and an 18-foot opening to the family room.
“We needed space to cook and enjoy meals, play with our three children, all under age five, and entertain. We wanted it to feel modern and clean, but timeless and comfortable, for play groups, cocktail parties and large family dinners,” says Bridget.
“Rachael’s design is smart. The huge counter and pull-out table are fabulous. The kids climb up and mix ingredients or help me pour. It’s fun.”
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