This kitchen continued a long-standing winning streak by taking home 3rd place for the Traditional category in the 14th annual kitchen design contest sponsored by Signature Kitchens & Baths magazine. That got us thinking – what is it about this kitchen that makes it so successful?

This kitchen’s simple floor plan maximizes its functionality. A long single island anchors the center of the kitchen, providing an ideal setting for small intimate gatherings and a centerpiece for grand holiday soirees. A wall of French doors opens to an outdoor courtyard allowing guests to wander in and out with ease while flooding the room with the warmth and comfort of daylight. The adjoining family room invites additional interaction.

Meticulous craftsmanship incorporated into the tiniest of details gives the space its distinct character. Distressed black painted cabinets provide a classic counterpoint to the rich American cherry whose radiused beaded-inset cabinetry is accented by molding and stars. The hood canopy was hand built on site and finished with a carved mantelpiece. Fully integrated refrigeration units resemble fine antique furniture. The one of a kind coffered ceiling functions as a grid for aligning the kitchen’s various components.

Despite its good looks, this kitchen was built with cooking and entertaining in mind. The 48″ range accommodates multiple pots and pans and is flanked with discrete pull-out storage units for ultimate convenience. The central portion of the island sits 1 1/2″ higher than standard to convenience taller than average homeowners. Top of the line appliance were selected for superior performance.

Did we mention it was a national competition? Kudos to kitchen designer and cabinetmaker David Stimmel of Stimmel Consulting Group for his (always) fantastic work.

See more photos of this award winning kitchen on houzz.com.