Maughan Design & Remodel | Luxe Penthouse | Portland, OR

Designed two decades ago, a Portland penthouse was ready for its next chapter. With outdated finishes and limited storage, the homeowners turned to Maughan Design & Remodel to create a clean, contemporary design with improved functionality.

As the design team explored cabinet surface options that would support a modern matte aesthetic without the upkeep of painted finishes, they recommended RAUVISIO noir in Gaslit Alley and Silver Lake. The monotonic matte surface provided the refined appearance the clients envisioned, paired with the durability needed for daily use.  

“The smooth matte finish of RAUVISIO noir elevates the space, offering the look of painted cabinetry with much better resistance to everyday wear and tear,” said Kathie Maughan Francis, principal designer at Maughan Design & Remodel. “The surface is not only easy to clean but also offers self-healing for minor scratches, making it a smart, long-lasting choice for a busy home.”

The contrasting tones of Gaslit Alley’s dark gray and Silver Lake’s light gray were balanced with bright, simple materials including Arctic White tile from Daltile and Winter’s Veil quartz from Wilsonart. 

To maintain a sleek feel throughout the kitchen, the design team paired the surfaces with integrated handles. They built the cabinetry in-house, using REHAU’s Hidden Recessed 2 mm and J Channel 32 mm integrated handles in Matte Anthracite for a streamlined, cohesive appearance. 

For enhanced functionality, the kitchen layout was reworked to include a wrapped counter, expanding storage without interrupting the minimal aesthetic. Additional upgrades improve convenience, such as a coffee bar and a 16-guage stainless steel Ruvati sink with a two-tiered workstation. 

One of the kitchen’s most distinctive features is a custom banquette. While this type of built-in seating is typically seen in traditional homes, Maughan Design gave the feature a contemporary edge by incorporating RAUVISIO noir Gaslit Alley, proving that built‑ins can feel right at home in modern designs. 

“RAUVISIO noir played a key role in helping the clients achieve the clean, minimalist look they were after,” Maughan Francis shared. “Its sleek finish feels refined and current without being flashy, and it’s incredibly easy to maintain. They specifically didn’t want woodgrain or the upkeep that comes with painted surfaces, so this was the perfect solution— both stylish and worry-free.” 

With high‑performance matte surfaces and thoughtful functional updates, the penthouse now delivers exactly what the homeowners were seeking: a refreshed space where elevated style meets everyday practicality.