“The detailing for the cabinetry, staircase, wainscoting and coffered ceilings were in keeping with Thad’s and Elaine’s desire for a more formal feel,” says Phil Norman. Opposite the front door is a secret door to the basement that is faced with beautiful custom cabinetry to create a more inviting entry by not walking through one door to look at another. The Malits spend most of their time down the hall from the front entry in the inviting, open kitchen and family room—where walnut beams balance the dark wood floors. “I designed a chef-style kitchen accented with a black Viking range for dramatic contrast,” says Phil. “The commercial feel of the glass-front Viking refrigerator was also selected because of its professional feel.” Polished Calcutta stone countertops with a custom edge detail and a soapstone-surfaced island are finished with a Verde Luna marble backsplash and harlequin detailing. Beveled glass-front cabinetry with polished nickel hardware, exposed hinges and a walnut butcher block set into the soapstone complete the design.
In keeping with the classic elegance throughout the home, the master bath boasts Sahara Beige polished marble and cream-colored limestone from Walker Zanger, with a mosaic backsplash to add interest and texture. The cabinetry was designed with inset-exposed face frame doors and deep drawers. Polished nickel Water Works fixtures and graceful sloped sconces with asymmetrical shades add finishing touches. The powder room repeats the formal, masculine, library feel of Thad’s office. Smokey taupe grass cloth covers the walls above warm, beige, limestone wainscoting finished with rich tile embellishments. An oval mirror softens the edges of the angular sconces installed higher than usual, so they would not compete with the mirror. For a family that loves to entertain, the Malits’ East Coastinfluenced South Bay home is perfect for their active community lifestyle. With regular charity meetings, Indian Princess and Girl Scout gatherings, and softball meetings, the door is often found open to family and friends. •
LIKE THE LOOK? WE RECOMMEND...
HEARST 6-LIGHT CHANDELIER $1,149 Ballard Designs ballarddesigns.com MORELLO ROUND MIRROR $129 Pottery Barn in Rolling Hills potterybarn.com
VIKING PROFESSIONAL SERIES FREESTANDING RANGE prices vary Ferguson in Redondo, ferguson.com
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southbay HOME I 2013