Lack of symmetry in this angled, open floor plan kitchen was the key challenge. The L-shaped island, which I lined up with two of the walls, resolved the issue. The renewable Red Grandis Wood cabinets (eucalyptus) are finished in weathered gray along the perimeter and creamy white on the island. I provided layers of lighting, including the oversized drum chandelier above the table, which is enclosed on the bottom so that the bulbs are not visible. I also chose a branch chandlier above the island workspace and recessed can lights on the ceiling for whole-room illumination. Photo by Brian Gassel