Before & After
The desire to improve style, flow, and function inspired a dramatic transformation of this 1970’s-era kitchen. The peninsula and hanging cabinets made this u-shaped kitchen appear
boxed-in and cut off from rest of the house. The kitchen lacked sufficient storage, counter space, work areas, and presence. Cabinets, hardware, lighting, tile counter tops, dark green wallpaper and borders were outdated.
Our team carefully considered the clients’ needs and incorporated strong design elements, principles, and craftsmanship to produce a sophisticated room that is functional, luxurious, and welcoming. To create a more efficient and open layout the peninsula and its hanging cabinets were eliminated.
Before: After:
Design & Function
In the new spacious layout, appliances, prep, and cooking stations are optimally organized in close proximity to the island for easy access and improved work flow.
Creative ways of minimizing costs without compromising quality or design were implemented allowing the homeowners to splurge on new specialty items including a G.E. single wall oven, slide-in smooth-top range, warming drawer, a black Kenmore elite refrigerator, and heated tile floor. The existing microwave and dishwasher were newer and suited the design concept, and therefore were re-used. Appliance placement and plumbing remained in the same locations to further reduce costs.
Colors were inspired by the owners’ longing for the warmth of Hawaii (the owners’ favorite retreat) while living in the cold and rainy Northwest. Black, bronze, and umber are set against rich cherry stained cabinets and neutral wall tones to add drama and balance. Repeating these elements throughout the room evokes a soothing sense of harmony.
Contrasting hues of black,bronze, and umber are reflected in the:
- tiled floors
- quartz counter tops
- granite sink
- faucet
- lights
- light wood-clad windows
- hardware
- appliances
- furniture
- accessories
« Before
Photographs taken from same angle
After »
Careful planning maximizes the use of small spaces.
- Removing a non-load bearing wall to the coat closet freed valuable space. (photo top)
- In its place is another multifunctional work area that includes a wall oven, easy access storage, and a built-in message media center for convenience. (photo upper right)
Lighting
A larger new window above the sink increases natural light and visually expands the space. Multiple recessed Lithonia ceiling cans greatly improve task lighting. Thoughtful positioning of the cans and under-cabinet strips adds ambiance by reflecting light onto the walls, ceilings, and cabinets. Thin-coat plastered walls and ceiling add texture. Their light tone maximizes the impact of light on the room and serves as a neutral backdrop for this dramatic makeover. Three pendants function as task lighting and accentuate the colors in the quartz island countertop.
The homeowners are thrilled with the dramatic results! Detailed attention to our clients’ needs, design elements, and craftsmanship have produced a new highly functional kitchen that is a sophisticated, luxurious gathering area for family and friends. Welcome home!
