Farmhouse Kitchen, North Albany, Oregon:

This 1911 farmhouse kitchen overlooks breathtaking acres of mint fields and pastures. Several ill-conceived additions over the years created a disjointed layout that separated the kitchen from other family areas.

To open and reconfigure the space we demolished the kitchen and several small rooms (breakfast, laundry, and powder rooms) behind it and built a small addition. We designed the new kitchen/dining great room so it would be open and connected to the adjacent family room for a more spacious appearance, better light, views, and entertaining.

Windows were added along the entire length of the great room to improve natural lighting and to take advantage of the views. The new wall of windows allows natural light to flood the kitchen making it feel bright and airy.

Before

The function of this new farmhouse kitchen has greatly improved with two concealed dishwashers (one next to each sink,) plenty of countertop space, ample cabinetry, and two sinks that make prep work and cleanup a cinch.

A granite covered Sapele island became the centerpiece and hub of the new kitchen. Beneath the windows ceramic subway and glass mosaic tiles serves as a beautiful backsplash.

A roomy walk-in pantry with etched glass door provides generous storage solutions.

The informal kitchen entry keeps clutter from taking over the kitchen by providing places for mail, phones, coats, and shoes. Drawers, baskets, hooks, and shelves provide a place for everything.

Acustom buffet with a lighted display case was designed in the dining area for serving food and drinks and provides both convenient and beautiful storage. The bead board inlay adds to the vintage feel of the farmhouse.

The glass tile earth tones and cream grout repeat the colors seen in the granite, wood floors, columns, island, and paint color to create a sense of harmony.

Though this design meets all of the homeowners' needs, they were surprised by its WOW! Factor!