Transitional Kitchen with Modern Classic Elements in Westlake Village, California

Ryan M. Grambart
Founder & CEO - CopperSmith
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Ryan M. Grambart

The biggest challenge in every kitchen design project is balance. In fact, that could be said about design in general, as the same concept applies to bathrooms, bedrooms, and every other interior space. Even with a style of design in mind, it’s important for the finished product to be balanced as completely as possible. 

It’s the balance of this stunning kitchen in Westlake Village, California, that stands out to us above all else. Sure, the range hood is a key element, and we’ll talk about it more later, but everything works together in a harmonious, cohesive manner. The challenge was a big one for designer Jennifer Newman, but we’d say she nailed it. 

So Many Things to Balance

We would imagine that balancing the many components of this kitchen was one of Jennifer’s primary concerns when getting started on this job. For example, this is a large kitchen, so it’s important to balance using that space well while also making it feel comfortable and homey. This hurdle was cleared without any trouble, as the seating at the island makes it feel welcoming, and the deep wood tone of the island cabinets also adds a sense of calm. 

Modern Kitchen with Copper Range Hood

There was also a need here to balance the beauty of the kitchen with its functionality. The owners surely wanted this kitchen to look great while also working in a practical manner for day-to-day life. With tons of counter space for food prep, two huge fridges, and virtually endless cabinet space, it’s safe to say that any serious cook would love to occupy this kitchen. 

A Masterclass in Transitional Design

Continuing with the theme of balance, transitional kitchen design is all about balancing the traditional with the contemporary or modern. The job is to find a way to incorporate some of the minimalism that is popular today with the character and charm of a more classic design. Everywhere you look in this kitchen, that objective was  accomplished nicely. 

For starters, the woodgrain island cabinets and floors align with the traditional, while the painted white cabinets on the walls and the touches of metal around the room are on the modern side of the ledger. The unique light fixtures over the island also push things toward the traditional, only to be balanced out by the large white counters and backsplash. 

When transitional design is done right, it can’t really be pinned down to any one specific time period. This kitchen looks new, but it also looks like it could have been in place for 20 years. That’s exactly the point, and it’s a sure sign that a skilled designer took plenty of time and effort to get all of the little details just right. 

A Custom Version of the Signature SX5

The Signature SX5 from CopperSmith was an excellent choice for a kitchen centerpiece range hood. It’s big enough to hold up to the scale of the kitchen, it can move a lot of air for ventilation purposes, and customizing the look is easy by picking the right finish and any extra details that are desired. As you can see from the pictures, the order that was placed called for a Bronze Copper finish with a Smooth texture, along with Matte Brass straps. We particularly love the way those straps contrast with the body of the hood, allowing them to stand out and be one of the defining features of the whole kitchen. 

Copper Range Hood Closeup

There was only one problem with using the Signature SX5 for this space. It didn’t really fit. Well, not as designed. The standard version of the SX5 features a flat top, and that wouldn’t align naturally with the angled ceiling in this kitchen. Going with the standard format of this hood would have left an awkward gap at the top, and there would have been a glaring issue with the biggest piece in the space. 

This is where working with CopperSmith can make life a lot easier for a homeowner or designer. For us, it was simple enough to just work with Jennifer to adjust the top of the hood to make sure it sits flush with the angle of the ceiling. Just like that, the problem was solved with custom kitchen ventilation, and she had a hood that was purpose-built to land in that spot. 

The Perfect Place to Cook

We already talked briefly about this being an excellent kitchen for a serious home cook. A closer look at the many elements in the space makes it easy to see why that’s the case. There are two sinks, a huge range with many burners, a quiet but powerful range hood, a pot filler arm over the stove, and two of the largest refrigerators you’ll ever see in a home. Whether it’s preparing a meal for the family on a busy weeknight or cooking a holiday dinner for a large group, this kitchen will always be up for the challenge. 

Hear From the Designer

Part of the job of a designer is to work with many different suppliers and retailers to acquire the right pieces necessary to bring a space together. Jennifer certainly has plenty of experience with these relationships, so what did she think about working with CopperSmith? Here’s what she said –

“Worth the wait! Worked with my client to customize this beautiful range hood. Ordered at the height of COVID, we had to wait a little longer than expected, but it was well worth it. The range hood is the focal point and jewel of my clients’ new kitchen and it is a real statement piece.”

The pandemic was certainly a challenge for everyone to overcome, but we are proud that we were able to deliver this designer range hood for Jennifer’s project, and her client was thrilled with the result in the end. To put the power of CopperSmith on your side for an upcoming project, reach out today to get started. 

 

April 28, 2026