A fine city home from 1897 with plenty of period moldings received a modern kitchen layout and look while incorporating a few favorite existing features. Keeping the Carrara marble walls was one of those requirements, along with the inlay in the wood flooring. The former plan had kept the walls from the original butler’s pantry. We added that space to the kitchen with an ample island that is ideal for both cooking and entertaining. A quartzite was chosen as a central feature, while absolute black granite countertops complement without competing with the marble backsplash. Brushed stainless is used throughout the space with milk glass inserts into the doors that hide kitchen clutter. The living room walls, and ceiling needed repair work, so we took the opportunity to add a grand chandelier befitting the space, complete with a plaster medallion. The warm yet soft contrast of the ceiling color allows the added details to shine, including new corner appliques that repeat the fireplace motifs. A mix of new sofas, luxe recovering of other existing upholstery modernizes the space while keeping the room traditionally inspired.