Photos by Spacecrafting
Since 1993, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove has held its biannual Kitchen Design Contest, honoring architects, builders and remodelers, designers, and more for unique kitchen designs across the world. With over 1,600 entries spanning 11 countries and 44 states, Minnesota’s own PKA Architecture was named a finalist in the 2022-23 contest. “Being one of 44 finalists is a huge honor,” says PKA’s Director of Operations Tammy Angaran, who collaborated with Kristine Anderson, managing principal and designer, on the kitchen project. “The caliber of work entered every two years for this award is very high, so we do not take it lightly to be selected.”
The judging panel was assembled of seven industry professionals of various backgrounds, from interior designers to architects. “The Kitchen Design Contest holds an incredible importance in the design world and continues to set the standard of excellence for recognizing innovation and talent in kitchen design,” says Mark Stumer, principal of Mojo Stumer Associates in Greenvale, New York, and a judge on this year’s panel. “Each entry is meticulously evaluated to ensure only the best designs rise to the top and their creativity is celebrated.”
The lakeside PKA project, completed in 2022, is aptly named “Lakeview Retreat.” “This project was a good fit for this particular award not only because of the abundance of appliances but also in the way they were incorporated into the spaces,” Angaran explains. When designing the home, the PKA team developed a partial height wall, clad it in quartzite, and placed it behind a Wolf range to maximize views of the lake. The ventilation hood was concealed within the cabinetry soffit to maintain aesthetic continuity, while an adjacent pantry was designed to keep appliances accessible and clear from view. Meanwhile, the bar is centrally placed to be accessible from both indoors and out. “The way this house is incorporated into the site, the landscape, and the open, yet functional plan is really special,” Anderson says. “It’s casual, perfect for entertaining, and takes advantage of its lake setting.”
The Winners’ Summit and Gala is happening October 13-16 at the Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, Florida, where both Anderson and Angaran will be in attendance. At the gala, 13 of the final projects will be awarded across first, second, and third place in the Contemporary, Transitional, and Traditional design categories. As the anticipation builds for the event, the PKA team is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to celebrate the achievement and represent the talent of Minnesota’s own designers and architects.
