Designer Spotlight

Christine Rizzo

Shell Bank Interiors, Rockville Centre, NY

Questions and Answers

Tell us about why you chose Atlas Homewares for this kitchen design.
I selected the Bradbury collection in Warm Brass (WB). I chose this collection because of the simple, clean lines and the variety of lengths the pulls came in; I used four sizes in this kitchen design. The warm brass finish was also a great complement to the faucet and appliances. Atlas Homewares is high quality and affordable. It's also very accessible to buy, and there are so many styles and finishes to choose from.
Describe your kitchen and how you fulfilled your plans for the space.
The layout was already pretty great, but we wanted to update and brighten the kitchen. We updated the cabinets with on-trend (and always classic) white shaker cabinets and a gray island, which was extended. We did two different quartz countertops to bring the design to the next level.
Did you run into any challenges with this specific project?
Surprisingly not!
Tell us about yourself. What is your design style, passion, and/or inspiration?
My first and most important job is being a mom to my two girls, ages 11 and 13. Owning my own business gives me the flexibility to make my own hours and be there for my husband and kids. Before joining the design industry, I was in retail and digital marketing for over 15 years. Interior design has always been my passion. I love so many different styles, but my personal style is transitional. I like classic pieces with a bit of trendy items mixed in.
Where do you go to get new ideas and inspiration?
Everywhere! I love Instagram, but nothing beats seeing designs in person. I love visiting showrooms, retailers and homes of friends and family.
Did you visit a showroom for the hardware? If so, where did you visit?
I did not visit a showroom, but Atlas has a wonderful free sample program so I ordered a few samples from the website before making the decision to go with the Bradbury Collection.
What hardware trends are you seeing?
I believe we'll see more statement hardware trending. The fun thing is, if you can match or use a backplate to cover the existing hardware holes in your cabinetry, it's easy and inexpensive to change out.
Which design trends are you most excited about in 2021?
The comeback of color, especially green. It's exciting that sustainability is on the rise within the furniture industry. It's great to see more manufacturers choosing eco-friendly building materials and creating environmentally responsible architecture and interior design.
What finish do you think does best with green cabinetry?
I love antique brass or oil rubbed bronze with green cabinets. If it's a light green or sage color, satin nickel looks great too.
Are there any hardware-specific trends you're excited for in 2021?
Matte/flat black and brass are still very popular. I'm excited to see people do more mixing and matching with styles/finishes. It is the jewelry of the kitchen and can make such a big impact!
Do you have any tips about how to choose the best hardware for your space, lifestyle and/or style preferences?
Hardware is the jewelry of your kitchen, and it can totally change the look. First, set a realistic budget on how much you want to spend. Then decide on a finish. Next, select a hardware style that makes sense for each cabinet. For example, you wouldn’t put a cabinet knob on a drawer because it would be too difficult to open.
Another thing to consider is how long you plan on living in the house and your age. It sounds like a weird thing to think about, but many of today’s active seniors are choosing to age in place rather than move to an assisted living or retirement community. As we get older, pulls are usually easier to use than knobs.
What’s the best interior design lesson you have learned?
Trust your gut and use materials and items that make you happy. Don't always follow the trends. And always measure multiple times!
View more of Christine's work here: