Kitchens are more than places to cook—they’re where family gathers, stories are shared and memories are made. ForCo-Owner and Principal Designer Terri Sears of Designs by Hermitage, each kitchen is an opportunity to reflect her clients’ lifestyles while elevating form and function. In this feature, Terri walks us through four recent projects, highlighting the thoughtful details and design decisions that make each one unique.
Seamless Harmony
Q: The window treatments and pendants feel so harmonious in this kitchen and dining area. Were they chosen together, or did one inspire the other?
The pendants and window treatments were existing elements that the client wanted to keep. Our role was to design cabinetry finishes that blended seamlessly with her current home and furnishings.
Q: The waterfall stone island is such a striking feature. What is your process for sourcing countertops and ensuring they work with the overall design?
We always bring cabinet doors and finish samples with us to the stone yards so we can view everything together. This particular island is quartz. As we select countertops, we’re also considering the backsplash—making sure the two don’t compete but instead complement one another beautifully.
Elevated Collaboration
Q: The beams immediately draw the eye in this kitchen. What was the starting point for bringing this design to life?
This project was a collaboration with the architect and designer, working closely from the architectural drawings to ensure the vision aligned. We selected appliances early on and focused on space planning and layout. Since the cabinetry was a darker tone than the traditional white trim, we carried that depth of color onto the ceiling for a cohesive, elevated look.
Q: With such a generous island, how did the client’s lifestyle—cooking, entertaining, or family gatherings—shape the priorities of the design?
Absolutely—this client loves to cook, so appliances and workflow were central to the design. She also entertains frequently, so we made the island large enough to accommodate groups comfortably, giving her guests a place to gather while she prepares meals.
Bold Statements
Q: The deep, glossy blue refrigerator makes such a statement. Was it the jumping-off point for the design, or did it come in later?
This client is an artist and unafraid of color. We chose the refrigerator because of the bold finish options, then added copper handles to balance with the navy. Copper accents on the hood and sink tie it all together. I always want my clients’ personalities to shine through—it ensures each kitchen feels one-of-a-kind and tailored specifically to them.
Q: The copper details add richness and contrast. How do you guide clients when they’re making decisions about finishes and accents?
I like to start by visiting their home and getting a sense of their style. From there, we narrow down finishes that reflect their personality while maintaining cohesion. It’s all about creating a space that feels both daring and timeless.
Moody Elegance
Q: This living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen while still feeling warm and inviting. What was your approach to creating an open concept that maintains a sense of coziness?
These clients came in with a clear mood in mind—they wanted an Art Deco-inspired design with a sexy, moody vibe. Because the space has two walls of windows, we could balance the darker finishes with plenty of natural light.
Q: Mixing brown and black can feel bold—what made you confident it was the right direction for this space?
It was all about the atmosphere they wanted to create. The skyline of Nashville is visible from the right, and we wanted to frame that view with a sophisticated, layered palette. Mixing brown and black gave the space richness and depth while still keeping it inviting.
From bold refrigerators to moody palettes and expansive islands, Terri Sears proves that great kitchens are never one-size-fits-all. Each project reflects a careful balance of practicality and personality—thoughtfully designed spaces where her clients can cook, entertain and live beautifully every day.