A year after building a music room, the clients asked our design/build team to completely renovate the existing “galley type” kitchen. A better cooking environment followed by a smooth flow for large gatherings were tops on the list. In addition, a compact and inviting informal eating area with more counter space for baking were the requirements. With the goal of a open ceiling plane void of all beam and headers, careful consideration and planning had to be given to identify point loads and plumbing from the finished floor above. One special request was to try to “Give the kitchen a European feel and yet be sure it blends in with our very traditional home.” This was accomplished by the use of both traditional and modern materials as well as cabinetry construction. The new space allows guests connection and circulation to the kitchen and yet remains out of the main cooking activities. Hand selected straight grain rift oak panels anchor and “float” and provide a terminus for both kitchen and informal eating areas. Upon completion of the project the client remarked “my wife has not been this happy in years-thank you!”