Kitchen Design Story
This remodel is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can modernize a home without erasing its history. Rather than simply replacing finishes, the project completely reimagined the kitchen’s layout by expanding into the former dining room, nearly doubling the available space while respecting the home’s traditional character.
Every major appliance and plumbing fixture was relocated to create a more intuitive workflow, anchored by a beautiful custom arched window above the new sink. Showplace cabinetry, Winter Fresh brushed quartz countertops, and a custom range hood provide timeless elegance, while the decision to use a full-height backsplash only behind the range allows the architectural details to take center stage.
The most distinctive elements are the reclaimed barn wood island and matching ceiling beam supplied by the homeowner. These authentic materials introduce warmth, texture, and history, giving the kitchen a sense of permanence that feels perfectly at home in this mid-1980s residence.
Hardwood flooring was carefully woven into the existing floors, a new sliding patio door was relocated, exterior siding was repaired to match seamlessly, and every detail from drywall and electrical work to appliance installation, was completed as part of a comprehensive renovation.
The finished kitchen feels brighter, larger, and effortlessly timeless, proving that honoring a home’s original character can create a result that is every bit as stunning as a brand-new build.
Project Overview
This project transformed a compact, outdated kitchen into a spacious gathering place while preserving the timeless character of the original home. By extending the kitchen into the former dining room, the layout nearly doubled in size, creating a brighter, more functional space for everyday living and entertaining.
Every major component of the room was thoughtfully reimagined, from relocating appliances and plumbing to adding new architectural features and custom cabinetry, resulting in a kitchen that feels as though it has always belonged in the home.
Client Goals
- Preserve the traditional character of the 1980s home.
- Blend reclaimed architectural elements with modern functionality.
- Improve workflow and create a timeless kitchen rather than one driven by trends.
Kitchen Transformation
Expanded Floor Plan
- Removed walls to extend the kitchen into the former dining room and nearly doubled the kitchen’s usable square footage.
- Created a significantly more open and functional layout and improved circulation throughout the main living area.
Architectural Improvements
- Custom arched window installed above the new sink location.
- New sliding glass door relocated to improve functionality and natural light.
- Exterior siding repaired and seamlessly matched after structural modifications.
Cabinetry and Countertops
- Showplace custom cabinetry designed and installed by Mart Design Co.
- Traditional styling selected to complement the home’s original architecture.
- Pacific Surfaces Winter Fresh quartz countertop with brushed matte finish, which creates a soft texture complementing the traditional design and providing a durable, low-maintenance surface for everyday living.
Custom Design Features
- One-of-a-kind reclaimed wood island handcrafted from reclaimed barn wood sourced by the homeowner.
- Reclaimed wood structural ceiling beam supplied by the homeowner was professionally installed to reinforce the home’s timeless architectural style while adding warmth and authenticity.
- Custom-built range hood enclosure designed to become the focal point of the kitchen and seamless integrated into the cabinetry.
- Custom recessed display niches with stone shelving incorporate into each nice to add decorative storage.
- Dramatic full-height backsplash behind the range rather than surrounding the entire kitchen with traditional backsplash. This approach allows the cabinetry, reclaimed wood, and architectural elements to become the primary visual features while creating a clean, curated appearance.
- Refinished existing hardwood flooring with new hardwood seamlessly laced into the original flooring creating the appearance of one continuous floor throughout the entire space.
