DesignNJ-FebMar 2024-Digital Issue

“Newer tin doesn’t have a deep
embossment like these [on the
refrigerator] do. These are over
an inch thick, double the depth
of what a tin panel would be
nowadays.”
— PETER SALERNO
The tin on the refrigerator doors was salvaged from a New Orleans blacksmith
shop. Versace plates displayed above the refrigerator coordinate with the range
hood and rotisserie. The floor tile, including the leaf design, was retained from the
previous kitchen.
“Everything in this kitchen is about function,” Peter says. This drawer is outfitted
with dividers to separate coffee pods.
my dream to sit at our kitchen table in front of the rotisserie (another
nod to the fireplace of ancient times), have Andrea Boccelli playing in the
background and see Cornish hens turning.”
The tin on the refrigerator doors is another, more literal, nod to history.
It was salvaged from the New Orleans shop of 19th-century blacksmith
(and possible pirate) Jean Lafitte. The couple had the tin pieces — which
were part of the ceiling in the original smithy — whitewashed with
copper highlights. “They’re very cool,” Peter says. “Newer tin doesn’t have
a deep embossment like these do. These are over an inch thick, double the
depth of what a tin panel would be nowadays.”
The finished project — a beautiful blend of function and aesthetics —
is a tribute to the Salernos’ spirit of cooperation and negotiation. “It was
a total collaboration,” Peter says. “For example, I chose the rotisserie;
Tracy picked the color. This project was a matter of asking ‘what do I
need? What do you need? What’s really important to you?’ and going
from there.” DNJ
SOURCES design, Peter Salerno Inc. in Wyckoff; cabinetry, designed by Peter Salerno
Inc.; Schaub & Co. “Empire” cabinet hardware, Waterstone faucets and Rohl sinks,
through Hardware Designs Inc. in Fairfield; countertops, Stone Surfaces Inc. in East
Rutherford (no longer in business); backsplash tile on range wall and beverage station
wall, Stratta Tile Boutique LLC in Wyckoff (no longer in business); range, Wolf; custom
range hood (color matched to La Cornue Eggplant with copper bands), designed by
Peter Salerno, manufactured by Amoré Design Factory in Rockaway; “Flamberge”
Rôtisserie, La Cornue; Sub-Zero refrigerator, freezer and wine refrigerator, Cove by
Sub-Zero dishwashers and Miele wall oven, all through Reno’s Appliance in Paterson;
restoration and refurbishment of custom tin refrigerator panels, Simply Amy LLC in
Annandale; custom white oak table, chairs and counter stools, Sandtree Furniture;
pendant lights, Bruno Marashlian for Innovations Lighting through Capitol Lighting
in Paramus; “Belagio” chandelier over table, Ashore Inc.; antique French Limestone
flooring (existing), Mediterranean Tile in Fairfield; wall color, “Nomadic Desert” by
Sherwin-Williams; ceiling recess color, “Autumn Purple” by Benjamin Moore & Co.
For contact information, page 64
34 February/March 2024