A contemporary twist on the traditional formal dining experience. Velvet and metallic damask wallpaper is accented with turquoise Murano glass chandeliers and turquoise–lined silk draperies. Benches, dining chairs and host/hostess wing chairs add interest while antique Chinese serving buffets add warmth. Custom dining table. Photo by Christopher Wesnofsk

This is a real cook’s kitchen – fully equipped to handle elaborate preparations. Custom white cabinetry stores every essential while the chocolate walnut island can be used for prep or casual serving. Complementary backsplashes (a Murano glass and a stone and rose gold mosaic) add interest and sparkle. Photo by Christopher Wesnofske

Here’s how to dine casually in a luxurious kitchen. Barstools are upholstered with indoor/outdoor fabric for easy maintenance and the exquisite marble island countertop is easily wiped. A Turbo Chef double wall oven, full stove and island cook top with hydraulic vent make casual cooking easy. Photo by Christopher Wesnofske

This butler’s pantry is as beautiful as it is functional. Custom cabinetry matches the kitchen and offers an eye–pleasing contrast against a white backsplash. Equipped with a full–sized wine refrigerator and built–in coffee machine, dishwasher and water filtration system. Photo by Christopher Wesnofske

The whimsical, custom–designed banquette is the centerpiece of this funky Hamptons cottage, but this grand design is also practical: the specially treated fabric can be wiped clean and the adjoining dining table, made of recycled wood floors, is on a rolling stainless steel base for easy in and out. Photo by Genevieve Garruppo

This chef’s kitchen was designed for a client who loves to cook. From the large Viking stove to the sea of windows opening to a California pergola, every element was thoughtfully planned. African cedar wood flows horizontally; recycled glass glistens above a sandblasted granite countertop. Recycled cork floor. Photo by Christopher Wesnofske

This kitchen was designed for clients who often use caterers and wanted a series of workstations and a guest area. Quartered walnut creates a unique and masculine look; three lamps by a California glassmaker light the prep table; a French chandelier complements an English dining table. Bamboo floor. Photo by Christopher Wesnofske

The conversation starter in this Hamptons dining room is always the grand iron chandelier, which looks like it was dipped in kosher salt. The repartee continues around the octagonal table designed to gather friends and family close together. Round sea–grass rug and red grass–cloth walls add warmth and energy. Photo by Christopher Wesnofske

When he’s not writing, Eric Van Lustbader, along with his wife Victoria, become serious cooks, so details such as a moisture–proof hermetically sealed pantry were added. But the practical elements do not sacrifice beauty: ash and bubinga rosewood cabinets and Mexican ceramic floors create an inviting space. Photo by Durston Saylor