Forest-Inspired Surfaces Add Tactile Depth to Minimalist Custom Home

Bespoke design takes center stage in the kitchen. A custom stainless steel hood crowns the cooktop, enhancing both performance and safety. A wall-mounted pot filler in a matte black finish extends over the range, making it effortless to fill large pots directly on the stove. Deep red burner knobs punctuate the range with a bold splash of color and personality. The countertops were elevated to 39 inches – three inches above standard height – to better accommodate the homeowner’s comfort. Under-cabinet LED lighting casts a focused glow across the prep area while highlighting the sleek white surfaces. Emtek Keaton Pulls in black accent the cabinet doors and drawers, echoing the clean lines of the home’s contemporary fixtures, pendant lighting, window casings and bar stools throughout the adjoining living space.

The living space is defined by warm tones and stylish accents. A recessed fireplace pairs with a wall-mounted TV for a clean focal point at the center of the room. As in most residential spaces, storage was a priority. Cabinetry and open shelving flank the mantel, providing the homeowner with organization space of a consistent style. In the bar area, the cabinets reach an impressive height of nearly 11 feet.

Choosing this soft, textured HPL surface was not just about aesthetics; it was about creating a tactile experience that matched the visual appeal of the finish. While some engineered wood surfaces fall short of mimicking real wood, RAUVISIO terra stands out with its deeply textured wood look and feel. Plus, the surface offers several durability advantages compared to TFL and melamine, such as impact, chip, fingerprint and scratch resistance.

“RAUVISIO terra offers consistent colors and a nice texture,” said Dave Peterson, owner of Peterson Cabinet Works. “Some materials have a nice look, but when you touch them, they don’t match what you see. Terra has a tactile sensation that matches what you’re seeing. I use it on a lot of my projects.”

The homeowners were drawn to a neutral color palette, selecting the sophisticated gray shade Loft Oak and the warm-toned brown shade Vineyard Oak. Peterson Cabinet Works vertically grain-matched all doors and drawers for a continuous, cohesive look throughout the house.

RAUVISIO terra Vineyard Oak was chosen for the TV console, upper and lower kitchen cabinetry, floating shelves, pantry and cabinets within the wine cellar. RAUVISIO terra Loft Oak was used for the kitchen cabinets surrounding the fridge and stove, adding striking contrast to the space.

By blending modern design with tactile elegance, the homeowners’ vision and Peterson’s craftsmanship resulted in a home that is simple yet entirely individual.

Project type: New construction, completed in 2024

Photography: Stephen Morgan Photography