Artem, originally from Ukraine, has lived with his family for several years in a peaceful area away from the hustle and bustle of Rochester, Michigan. He deliberately chose to settle near the forest and admits that he took his time before moving.
“I wasn’t really a fan of nature before, but then I realized that picnics are easier to arrange this way,” he laughs. “But seriously, it’s always fresh air, the scent of pine needles... In the city, it’s all lost. Here, it’s in its purest form.”
The house's modern architectural design suggests that Artem and his family brought a piece of the city with them. He agrees, adding that there are other unique benefits to living near nature.
“It’s winter, so picnics aren't exactly on the agenda,” Artem jokes. “But that doesn’t make the forest any less beautiful.”
Over the years, Artem’s home has evolved, with the kitchen design being the most significant transformation. His goal was to create a communal space that was open and inviting, perfect for gatherings.
“Views like this, surrounded by nature, are meant to be shared,” Artem shared. “We wanted to host friends for parties, but we decided to renovate the kitchen first, then the parties.”
While they chose a modern design, nature was the central inspiration for the kitchen’s aesthetic.
“We researched Scandinavian style and its deep connection to nature and decided that’s the direction we wanted to go,” Artem explained. “We had already chosen a white kitchen and trusted Corner to bring it to life.”
Artem had a clear vision for his kitchen: a spacious, open area where both decorative and natural materials could shine. He understood that a minimalist design was key to bringing this dream to life.
“If you make the space white, an excess of things will spoil it,” Artem reflected on his thought process. “Spaciousness matters not just for walkways, but for surfaces too. I wanted my kitchen to feel free, uncluttered.”
This vision led to a collaborative design process, where every detail of functionality was carefully considered. Together, they worked on the placement of storage solutions, built-in appliances, and how to best arrange everyday items.
The new kitchen design brought a wave of excitement and joy into Artem’s home. As he stepped into the space, he immediately noticed how much brighter and more expansive it felt.
“It felt like the kitchen was filled with light,” he said with a smile. “Maybe it’s the cabinet fronts or the large windows, but the effect is incredible. And there’s so much space now.”
Now, another source of light illuminates Artem’s home, glowing from within. The Scandinavian-style kitchen not only brings the crisp brightness of winter indoors but also fills the space with warmth and comfort. The kitchen has transformed, and it’s no longer just a place to gather—it’s a true haven, a sanctuary that warmly welcomes everyone who enters.
