An expansive marble countertop gleams atop a chic island. Across the room, a glamorous, white oven hood trimmed with patinaed brass anchors a wall of sleek cabinetry. Through a doorway, another covetable kitchen awaits—then another, and another. The dazzling space, Inspire Kitchen Design Studio (KDS), is a treasure trove of ideas. And it’s the manifestation of veteran kitchen designer Angela Otten’s 21-plus years of experience.

Otten’s credentials are hard-earned: She cut her teeth in the industry during a 14-year stint with local, luxury kitchen-design firm William Ohs. Just over a year ago, she branched out and founded Inspire KDS in her home with her husband, Steve, who runs the installation side of the business. And when the opportunity to open a showroom in the new 60,000-square-foot International Design Collection (IDC) building (see below) presented itself, Otten jumped at the chance. Says the designer of her new space: “I wanted to make sure there’s something for everyone, from modern to transitional to traditional with a modern edge. All classic, but with interesting details.”

The showroom reveals a whole new realm of ideas, from retractable storage nooks to painted porcelain countertops that look like marble (trend watch!). The prospect of selecting just one style from Otten’s cabinetry lines can seem overwhelming, but fear not: “A kitchen designer helps you plan space and function by looking at the way you work, play, and entertain,” she says. “We draw out people’s preferences and ways of living. I request lots of pictures of what clients like, and I go to people’s homes to see what they have in their cabinets. But typically, the design work is done here—where you can touch, see, and experience the different things we have to offer.” And once you choose, you’ll have a little kitchen showroom of your own.

In the Know: What’s the IDC?

The International Design Collection (IDC), located near Sixth Avenue and
I-25, is a collection of high-end purveyors: Aria Custom Design (fireplaces, Venetian plaster, mantels), Aztec Carpet & Rug, Classy Closets, T&G Flooring, Ultra Design Center (plumbing fixtures and hardware), Ultra Design Lighting, and Angela Otten’s Inspire Kitchen Design Studio. For more info, visit idcbuilding.com.