This kitchen transformation was really special because my client was actually the contractor as well! This sweet couple’s grandpa built the house in the 1950s, so there is lots of history and memories specifically in the kitchen with her grandma’s cooking and hosting of the entire family. After moving back to MN and buying the house, the clients knew they wanted to make some updates to the kitchen, while also keeping those precious memories alive.
Since they love to host family + friends and cook together, we needed to think through a better solution for the layout and design of this space. Our goal through the design process was to improve functionality, add in an organic modern style, and rework the floor plan.
Let’s get into what this kitchen looked like before, the design plan, and then finally the reveal!
Kitchen Transformation | Before
With a peninsula blocking the arched opening from the kitchen to dining room, the space felt cut off and closed off. The kitchen was lacking adequate countertop space and storage as well.
With a doorway on the left side of the previous kitchen, there was an awkward corner that became dead space.
To the right of the fridge, you’ll see the doorway that we ended up removing since there was already another way to access the area.
The plan was to remove the half wall, close off the doorway to the right of the fridge, open up the space, and create room for a large island with seating.
Kitchen Transformation | Design
As for the design, our plan was to incorporate warm wood tones, handmade looking tile, fun lighting, and gold finishes. Below is the mood board which helped us hone in on the design style and gather inspiration for materials.
From there, we moved into the selections, floor plan, and renderings of the kitchen. Our original designs included a coffee nook with green accent tile, but once the demo was done, the clients decided to keep more of an open feel with open shelving in that spot instead. For materials, we chose a medium wood slab style cabinet that had a nod to mid century modern design. A champagne bronze faucet brought in a sleek and modern look that also complemented the finger pull hardware beautifully.
For the countertops, we decided on Cambria Everleigh which is a quartz with such pretty movement. The quartz was paired with a handmade looking tile from Bedrosian with color variation and installed in a stacked vertical layout for a more contemporary feel. Two ceramic pendants add decorative lighting over the island and gold sconces bring in accent lighting over the shelves.
Kitchen Transformation | After
This was such a fun photoshoot because the client is an amazing wedding photographer, but so graciously stepped out of her comfort zone to capture the reveal of this kitchen transformation! It turned out beautifully. The wood tones of the island contrast the countertops and backsplash so well.
For the hood, we went with a simple drywall look.
On either side of the hood, we added floating shelves and gold accent sconces.
We also incorporated an shelf and sconce above the sink that is a perfect spot for plants and decor.
The new layout in this kitchen transformation allowed for a large island that provides much needed workspace, storage, and a spot for seating.
The brass and bronze plumbing and hardware throughout the space provides the perfect amount of shine and complements the cabinetry so well.
At the end of the L-shaped cabinetry layout, we included a beverage fridge that makes for easy grab and go spot for the homeowners and guest alike.
Thanks for following along on this kitchen reveal! To see more kitchen transformations, check out the portfolio tab on Willaby Way!
