For this custom kitchen in Short Hills NJ, designer Ruchi Bhardwaj of By Design Kitchen & Bath LLC blended function and warmth with luxurious, handcrafted cabinetry by Kountry Kraft. Every detail was tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle—from a showstopping walnut island to a hidden butler’s pantry that supports seamless entertaining. 

Kountry Kraft custom cabinetry was used throughout the kitchen, island, butler’s pantry, and banquette, all designed to flow harmoniously while serving distinct purposes. With a palette grounded in Benjamin Moore’s China White and accented with rich English Walnut and deep Tarrytown Green, this space reflects both elegance and authenticity. 

A Personalized Approach to Luxury Kitchen Design 

Short Hills homeowners often look for more than just a kitchen—they want a space that works hard behind the scenes while feeling like a natural extension of their home’s personality. That’s exactly what Ruchi Bhardwaj achieved through layered color choices, organizational solutions, and premium materials. 

The perimeter cabinetry, in a custom-matched Benjamin Moore China White, sets a soft and timeless foundation. Meanwhile, the L-shaped island, range hood, and base cabinets introduce the warmth of Premium Walnut, finished in a matte English Walnut stain that enhances its natural grain. 

Paired with Quartzite Calcatta Montreal countertops and backsplash, the kitchen strikes a careful balance between classic design and modern performance. 

Thoughtful Material Selections 

Materiality was key in bringing depth and dimension to this Short Hills kitchen. The use of three signature cabinetry finishes—China White, English Walnut, and Tarrytown Green—ensures that each functional zone of the kitchen has its own identity without feeling disconnected. 

The butler’s pantry, finished in Benjamin Moore Tarrytown Green, offers a moody contrast to the lighter tones in the main kitchen. It creates a transitional space from the kitchen to the dining and entertaining areas, equipped with a prep sink, dishwasher, and storage to support hosting duties without interrupting the flow. 

For tips on creating cohesive cabinetry palettes, explore our guide on Selecting the Perfect Timeless Custom Cabinet Colors. 

Custom Cabinetry Details 

• Kitchen & Island Cabinetry Style: Penn Line 
• Butler’s Pantry Cabinetry Style: 3001 
• Inset Door Styles: TW10 Hybrid and CRP10 
• Overlay Door Styles: TW10 Hybrid, full overlay for banquette and pantry 
• Cabinet Hardware: Top Knobs Lily Pull in Honey Bronze 

Appliance garages tucked into the white cabinetry maintain a clutter-free aesthetic, while upper cabinets flanking the sink feature walnut interiors and glass-paneled doors—bringing in a touch of transparency and polish. 

Connected Living with Butler’s Pantry and Banquette 

The kitchen opens into a built-in banquette dining area, offering casual seating beneath a glowing Etienne Glass Chandelier from Crate & Barrel. This space serves as a transition to the butler’s pantry, cleverly hidden yet fully equipped with cabinetry, sink, dishwasher, and additional storage. 

From meal prep to coffee stations, each zone was designed to minimize visual noise while maximizing utility. 

High-End Appliances & Functional Accents 

Premium appliances underscore the functionality and performance of this kitchen: 

• Cooktop & Wall Ovens: Wolf 
• Refrigerator: Sub-Zero 
• Microwave Drawer: Sharp 
• Dishwasher: Bosch (panel ready) 
• Faucet: Brizo (touch activation) 
• Pendant Lights Over Island: Bauer Dome Pendant – Arhaus 

These selections not only offer best-in-class reliability but also blend seamlessly into the cabinetry through thoughtful integration and custom panels. 

Enhancing the Heart of the Home 

From early morning breakfasts to weekend entertaining, this custom kitchen in Short Hills NJ is built to adapt. Every material, appliance, and layout decision was made to support a lifestyle that values both beauty and efficiency. 

Whether gathering around the walnut island, accessing hidden storage in the banquette area, or prepping behind the scenes in the butler’s pantry, the homeowners now enjoy a kitchen that functions like a finely tuned extension of the home. 

See how this nautical kitchen remodel in Edgewater MD achieved a similarly cohesive flow with custom cabinetry by Kountry Kraft. 

Why Homeowners in Short Hills NJ Trust Custom Cabinetry 

Homeowners in Short Hills often seek a level of refinement and personalization that goes beyond cookie-cutter solutions. Working with a designer like Ruchi Bhardwaj and a cabinetry partner like Kountry Kraft ensures that their vision is not only honored but enhanced with craftsmanship, customization, and enduring quality. 

Kountry Kraft’s ability to customize every detail—from wood species to finish sheen to door styles—makes it a top choice for discerning clients throughout New Jersey and the nation. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What cabinetry style was used in the kitchen and pantry?

The kitchen and island feature Kountry Kraft’s Penn Line style with inset/no bead door styles. The pantry uses the 3001 cabinetry line with full overlay TW10 hybrid doors. 

What finish is used on the walnut cabinetry?

The walnut cabinetry, including the island and hood, is finished in a matte English Walnut stain to highlight the natural wood grain. 

What paint color matches the perimeter cabinetry?

The white perimeter cabinetry was custom color matched to Benjamin Moore’s China White, a warm off-white that complements natural finishes. 

Is the cabinetry completely custom?

Yes. Every cabinet in this project was crafted by Kountry Kraft to the designer’s exact specifications, including interior details, dimensions, and finishes. 

What materials were used for the countertops and backsplash?

All countertops and backsplashes are Quartzite Calcatta Montreal, chosen for its durability and elegant veining. 

How is the butler’s pantry designed?

The pantry includes custom cabinetry in Benjamin Moore Tarrytown Green, a prep sink, dishwasher, and additional storage, creating a support space for entertaining. 

What makes this a luxury kitchen?

It’s the fusion of premium appliances, artisan cabinetry, and tailored functionality—integrating everything from hidden storage to cohesive color zones. 

What kind of cabinet hardware was used?

The cabinetry features Top Knobs Lily Pulls in Honey Bronze, a warm metallic finish that complements all three cabinetry colors. 

Can I replicate this design in a smaller kitchen?

Yes. Custom cabinetry allows for flexibility in size and function, making it possible to adapt the design principles to smaller spaces. 

How do I start a custom kitchen project like this?

Start by contacting an authorized Kountry Kraft dealer or designer like Ruchi Bhardwaj to begin the planning and layout process. 

About the Designer – Ruchi Bhardwaj 

Ruchi Bhardwaj is the founder and lead designer at By Design Kitchen & Bath LLC, a boutique design firm based in New Jersey. Known for her client-centric approach and meticulous eye for detail, Ruchi blends function with form to create timeless spaces tailored to each homeowner’s lifestyle. Her designs have been featured in several premium publications and often incorporate custom cabinetry solutions to elevate everyday living. 

View more of Ruchi’s work at bydesignkitchenandbath.com and follower her on Facebook and Instagram. 

About Kountry Kraft 

Founded in 1959, Kountry Kraft is a family-owned custom cabinetry manufacturer based in Newmanstown, Pennsylvania. With a nationwide network of authorized dealers and designers, Kountry Kraft cabinetry is built to exacting standards using sustainable practices and fine craftsmanship. Whether you’re renovating one room or building your forever home, Kountry Kraft delivers cabinetry that blends beauty, precision, and performance. Contact Kountry Kraft to get started on your next project or locate a dealer near you.