This couple came to us hoping to not only update their kitchen for improved function, utilization of space, and more storage, but to also open the area between the kitchen into their family room. When entertaining, guests were isolated from the kitchen where all the action was, and their goal was to open the entrance and make the two areas cohesive as well as update their family room and repurpose kitchen cabinets into the basement.
This was the second remodel for this kitchen, and during the previous renovation a structural beam was added which made enlarging the opening from the kitchen to the family room as much as we had hoped for, more challenging. Our solution was to support a beam perpendicular to the structural beam to carry the weight to the foundation. By removing a large unused desk area in the kitchen and a seldom used small office in the family room, we had more options for how best to seamlessly transition from the family room to kitchen.
This first floor transformation is stunning. From dark and outdated to light, bright and modern, each space is a delight with significantly improved functional use of space. The new hallway entrance to the kitchen/eating area from the back door and back stairs is engaging with not only a drop zone for keys and purses, but also now boasts a custom-built cabinet for showcasing their cookbooks. New sliding doors open into the new solarium brimming with prized orchids in an environment conducive to thriving. The view from the front door into the family room welcomes everyone into their main living areas. Walking through the large new doorway to the family room, a wet bar was designed to transition entertaining between spaces. With plenty of storage, counter space, and 2 paneled refrigerator drawers, the hosts can entertain in style.
And finally, we built some cabinets and repurposed cabinetry from the kitchen, in the basement to create individually purposed areas for tasks as well as an entertainment center. It no longer is a basement that was dreaded to go to but is now a light updated and functional space for them to enjoy.
The finished renovation is absolutely stunning, and the transformation is dramatic. Each space is full of function, uniqueness, and beauty. The homeowner enjoys coming downstairs in the morning and when her husband asks why she turns on all the lights, and answers, “because I absolutely love this space and want to be in it.” No higher praise can be asked than that.