Sometimes a photograph stops you in your tracks. For whatever reason. Maybe it’s a colour combination, a beguiling mixture of textures, the way the light falls across the floor…sometimes you just can’t quite put your finger on it.

For me, this kitchen had me at first glance. If you were to list all of the characteristics without seeing it you would say it just couldn’t work.
It is blessed with beautiful bones of course. High ceilings, ornate cornices, a large window to flood the room with light. But who would believe that a glossy white-painted floor would combine so well with flat fronted modern cabinets and a marble splashback, a modern oak table and a Tom Dixon pendent.

It has a lot going on design wise but I think it’s the peaceful colour scheme with only one dark green chair to jar the muted tones that makes it work.
But on reflection I think it’s charm lies in the fact that it’s a real family kitchen where everything has a purpose and is undoubtably used. Where noisy family discussions take place amid the daily ritual of preparing food. Where homework is done, bills are paid and where friends drink wine into the early hours.

I love the fact that the walls are hung with art, that towels are hung within reach of the sink and that the open shelves are not for display but hold the items that need to be used the most often.

Nothing can replicate the look and feel of a home that is bustling with life.
If you want to see more pictures of this interesting family home, head over to Casa Vogue Brasil.