When George and Jan DeFalco built their home in Arlington’s Williamsburg neighborhood in 2013, they wanted a workhorse of a kitchen that could accommodate everything from family meals and homework time (they have two kids, now 10 and 15) to holiday baking and entertaining. They also wanted a space that was easy on the eyes. But the operative word was informal.
“We are very casual people,” says George, a licensed architect who co-founded McLean-based Tradition Homes with his brother, Steve, in 2006. “We wanted a space where people could feel at ease and be themselves.”
Architecturally, the plan achieves this goal with an open kitchen that connects to a great room, breakfast nook and outdoor patio. White cabinets and stainless-steel appliances maintain a light and airy vibe, while upholstered barstools and a walnut island top prevent it from feeling too “antiseptic.”
Meanwhile, the two dishwashers, two ovens and separate butler pantry (a great hideaway for dirty dishes) get a regular workout. During the week, Jan keeps the family healthy with nutritious and tasty dinners. On weekends, she says, it’s not uncommon to find the island laden with buffet spreads for neighborhood get-togethers, team parties, birthdays and game nights.
And NHL viewing, “complete with cowbells,” George adds. But there’s a moratorium on discussing anything other than hockey until the commercial breaks. “We’re a bit fanatical about the Caps,” he says, “and we rarely miss a game.”
I LOVE THIS SPACE BECAUSE…“It’s a comfortable spot where you can hang out and chat with the cook or lend a hand.”
Project Credits:
Tradition Homes
Builtbytradition.com