Though the architect insisted that the existing kitchen be bumped out for a better lake view, and alternatively suggested putting it in the historic living room for an open kitchen, family space, we reminded him that we would not be disturbing the historic footprint of the Federal home and that our "family" consisted of the two of us and a dog.  Therefore, though he thought the space entirely too small for a kitchen, we used it as such, as it had been for many years, and it is the perfect size for two people who do a great deal of cooking and entertaining.  My eight year old nephew chose the color, which reminded him of green apples and grapes.  It worked, and around the green walls we added custom wheat board non-toxic cabinetry and trim with Federal details, and granite from India (okay the only green thing about it is the color, considering the fossil fuels that it took to haul it here, but it's very practical, beautiful and resembles marble more than granite, and we're big fans of India having recently visited there).   The floor is new FSC beech wood, the fabric all linen from Schumacher and Zoffany, and the stove is a white Viking.  We got the lake view after all, but putting a second sink in the island which faces onto the adjoining rooms's lakefront windows.