Redefined Kitchen Renovation
This 1949 home had a mostly-original kitchen that could definitely stand an upgrade. There was also a great opportunity to better utilize the overall space to maximize counter space and storage. Take a look at the before and after’s below.
And, if you need help with your kitchen renovation, give us a call.
The Way It Was—old and tired
Using only two of the available walls in the space limited both counter and storage space. And, having the stove (with a late-addition vent and cabinet over it) immediately next to the fridge did not provide a comfortable work zone. You can’t tell from the photos but, the fridge opens in the wrong direction. That, in combination with no nearby counterspace, made for a very inconvenient scenario. Imagine trying to put groceries away—ugh!
The cabinets were only somewhat functional. At some point someone had “modernized” the hardware but, the cabinet doors had so many coats of paint on them that they couldn’t close, or stay closed, properly. You really had to wedge them into position to get them to stay closed.
From afar, the black and white tile was cute and vintage-y but, up close and personal it was cracked, had missing grout and was generally not-so-fresh!
At least at some point previously someone had updated the window to a double pane version that helped to maintain proper temperature control. So, that was a positive!
before — left side wall
before — end wall
before — right side wall
A Bright and Shiny Future
Down to the studs and built back up again. Everything was demolished from the space in order to give us a clean palette.
A new, U-shaped floor plan took advantage of the three accessible walls which allowed for the tremendous addition of storage and counter space.
Moving the range to the end of the “U” provided a much more reasonable cooking work zone. The space-saving, over-range microwave and vent added even more cooking functionality. And moving the sink to the window wall gave us the opportunity to add in a much-desired dishwasher. All new appliances were a must!
Unfortunately we had to replace the somewhat new window as the old one fell below the countertop height but, this gave us the chance to insert a wider window—more natural light and more air flow.
The single overhead light fixture changed to a layered plan including recessed lighting, under cabinet task lighting and, pendant accent lighting.
New shaker-front cabinetry, quartz counter top and herringbone backsplash keep the styling modernized but classic so that it can stand the test of time.
What do you think of these “after” pics?
after — right side wall
after — end wall
after — left side wall
If you need help with your kitchen renovation, give a call! We would be pleased to work with you!