A Story Told Through the Details

If there were a single symbol for this remodel, it would be the mughetti sconces. Antique and sourced directly from Italy, they arrived wrapped with a handwritten note explaining their backstory. A group of nuns had gifted them to a florist who had poured herself into her work, creating arrangements so beautiful, so heartfelt, that they felt compelled to show their gratitude. It wasn’t about money or recognition. It was a gesture of quiet reverence—an acknowledgment of someone who gave generously of herself, over and over.

That spirit is woven through every inch of this Dana Point kitchen. My client, a recently retired teacher, spent an entire career doing the same - showing up for her students, mentoring with precision and heart, and never cutting corners. When she finally decided it was time to turn her attention to her home, she approached the process with the same clarity and care she brought to the classroom. Her eye for detail is unmatched. She never hesitated to pause, reassess, and perfect. There was no rushing this project. And the result is a kitchen that feels as grounded and thoughtful as she is.

A Kitchen Designed with Intention

We began by grounding the space with warm, honed limestone floors. From there, we added creamy quartzite counters and designed a fully custom walnut island with tailored edge detailing. The brass and steel range hood, crafted by Haube, became a sculptural focal point. It’s bold without being flashy, and it set the tone for the entire room.

Every material was chosen for a reason. Unlacquered brass plumbing will patina and age beautifully over time. Rocky Mountain Hardware was selected for its hand-finished texture and warmth. Even the window sills were custom detailed, framing out a new window seat where her cat Simon now naps in the sun. Custom Schumacher window treatments brought in a rich, layered print that added softness and personality to the space.

A Home Already Styled by a Life Well Lived

One of my favorite things about this project is how little styling was actually required. My client’s home was already filled with stories. Her one-of-a-kind linens, antique dishware, and hand-thrown ceramics didn’t need editing. They just needed the right backdrop. Her art collection includes pieces passed down through generations and paintings by her own mother. This kitchen wasn’t a blank slate. It was part of a larger narrative, and it was finally given the design language to match.

The Inevitable Surprises of Custom Design

As with any custom kitchen, there were a few surprises along the way. The Italian range was the first item we ordered, and somehow the last to arrive. After sitting in a Southern California warehouse for months, it was mistakenly sold to someone else. Vendors pointed fingers, and we held our breath. Thankfully, it was replaced quickly... but not before reminding us that even the “easy” boxes don’t always stay checked.

And then there was the van.

Our painter had carefully loaded the fully prepped cabinet panel doors (brackets and all!) into his van for delivery. Overnight, the van was stolen. The doors were gone, and with them, a set of rare, difficult-to-source brackets. My client, who is nothing if not resourceful, tracked down the replacements herself over the course of several weeks. We repainted. We reassembled. And we finished exactly as we intended to. But it wasn’t without a fight.

A Kitchen That Reflects the Person Who Lives There

Mughetti House isn’t just beautiful, it’s personal. It reflects a woman who has spent her life in service of others, who finally took the time to create a space that serves her. It’s layered, soulful, and full of quiet detail. Nothing about it feels forced. Nothing was chosen just to fill space. Every decision was made with care.

She now has a kitchen that belongs entirely to her. It’s a space that honors everything she’s poured into her life and work. And I’m lucky to have been part of that process. Also, side note: she has the most exquisite wardrobe I’ve ever seen, and I fully plan on antiquing with her for years to come. Bonus? I now consider her a dear friend.