This three level home high in the foothills was constructed when kitchens were still considered utility rooms: undersized, few windows, dreary ambience, visually disconnected from the home, etc.  However, modern families require a kitchen area that serves as the social hub, project center and 'family room' often necessitating generous connection with adjacent spaces.  But, the more generous the connection, the less available wall area for kitchen features...so we discovered the proper balance that made sense for this family while allowing for their tendency for large scale entertaining.  All three levels of this home have large windows overlooking the valley...and two levels are below the main floor.  We prepared the first lower tier (shown with the beautiful wood paneling) as a party mezzanine with a full kitchen and extensive wine cellar.

Of Note — The spectacular paneling is original to the house and the homeowners planned to scrap it...but we advocated, somewhat gently, for preserving it, stating that it would absolutely provide a luxuriant and stately variable to the home.  And, of course...they love it.