The Art of an Uncomplicated Kitchen

We talked to Cambria Style featured designer Liad Schwartz about his transformation of a Pasadena townhouse. As our conversation continued, Schwartz offered deeper insight into his process—from mixing styles to choosing Cambria natural quartz surfaces.

Cambria Style: Can you give a big picture view of what you were trying to accomplish with the kitchen?

Liad Schwartz: This was a tricky space. My clients weren’t super keen about moving walls. The kitchen has an interesting angle to it, and I tried to play with that. The space was kind of small. So the way that I wanted to make it feel less tight was: giving the back wall no cabinetry on the top but also keeping the color scheme on the lighter side to make it feel a little bit more open. And then we added feature elements: the metal brass hood, the beautiful sconces. And on the other side, we have some of the loading shelves, made out of Cambria.

In terms of choosing Cambria for the shelves and countertop, what were some of the client’s practical concerns?

They really wanted—number one—a product that would be stain resistant and wouldn’t change with time. Some clients are keen on the character that natural stone brings with time and usage, but they were definitely like: “We don’t want that. We want something that’s going to look pristine throughout the time, no matter how we use it, no matter if we spill wine on it or citrus or whatever.” That’s why we went with Cambria.

What does Cambria have in common with other materials you find yourself drawn to using?

I love Cambria because of its versatility. I use it a lot. A lot of clients want to feel like their money is being stretched as much as it can—by having this material last, that is also something people love. And people want other materials that do the same thing. When it comes to fabrics, I use a lot of outdoor or solution-dyed acrylic stuff where you can even bleach it and it won’t change the color or the feel of it. People love that aspect: “Oops, the kids stained this. We can clean it easily.” 

In addition to helping keep the space light and open, what attracted you to the Cambria Inverness Everleigh design?

What trends have you noticed percolating in the world of design?

I feel like the ’70s are coming back in a way, but I haven’t been influenced by it yet. Or I haven’t had clients that have been keen towards it. I do feel like this organic look that we went for here has been trending for a while. Plaster walls were something that started like a trend, but I have a feeling they’re going to stick around for quite a while and become more of a staple, because it’s so dynamic, and it just gives a rich feel.

Are there design styles that you find yourself gravitating toward?

I like to try to keep things eclectic, so a mix. Even within a design style that is preferred, I feel like mixing in different styles makes it more rich and flavorful. Like this townhouse was a Craftsman. We brought the Japandi into it but also, at the same time, some mid-century into the mix, a little bit of wabi-sabi into it.

Were you happy with the results at the end of the project?

I love this kitchen. I feel like it’s pretty unique. We worked with its angles, and we embraced them instead of wanting to steer away, do something completely different, or tear down the walls. I love the use of the materials, the light colors. But there is still a palette there. We have something going on: the light oak, the brass, the lighter white and gray countertops. I love bringing in the saddle leather color. It’s a nice little extra pop, still very tonal, very neutral, but it shines in its own way.

What can’t you live without at work?

Definitely my computer, which I need no matter what. I love to pair it with a good iced coffee. I’m a fan of these new cloud foam coffees. And then a good playlist in the background—some good upbeat music to keep my day bright so I can continue to make bright designs as well.