The kitchen is the heart of the home. This philosophy guided the planning of my new house. Every choice revolved around the kitchen design. After living for more than a decade in a home where the kitchen was separate from the family room, I was ready for an open floor plan. I love being able to prepare meals while still being a part of the activity. Instead of a formal Dining Room, there is space for the table adjacent to the kitchen framed by a bank of floor-to-ceiling windows. It allows me to take in the beautiful views, including brilliant pink sunrises, and has a great flow when entertaining.

It took two long years upon moving to Iowa to build this house. Throughout that time, I envisioned myself at my kitchen island looking at the Great Room beyond. I imagined myself in the open space with vaulted ceilings, this was where I could best picture myself during the building process. Now that I am in my home, not a day goes by that I don’t say a quiet prayer of gratitude as I stand at my kitchen sink – this space is a dream come true.

It is so much more than just a kitchen, I’ve served my daughter’s Graduation Party taco bar and a family member’s Bridal Shower charcuterie board feast from this island. It’s the family breakfast spot and host to many Saturday evening potlucks. The open plan encourages gathering and it is just how I had dreamed it would be – always at the heart of it all.