Mountain Transitional Kitchen Remodel
Remodeled an original Tahoe Donner kitchen, blending traditional mountain architecture with mountain modern updates. The goal: infuse natural light into the space and make the original awkward layout and lack of storage more functional while creating better flow throughout the space.
The Challenge & Solution
*Reimage the awkward l-shaped island: The original L-shaped island disrupted circulation and limited workspace. It was replaced with a more functional rectangular island positioned at an optimal distance from the perimeter cabinetry to improve flow.
*Remove the “dust” ledge: We brought the soffit down and extended the cabinetry to meet it, removing the frustrating ledge that previously collected dust and visually dated the kitchen.
*Working with existing elements: The original “orange wood” trim was minimized by painting the baseboards the same color as the walls. Wire-brushed engineered hardwood floors were selected to complement the remaining woodwork and create a cohesive backdrop for the modernized kitchen.
*Improve storage without changing the footprint: A range of custom kitchen organizers, from utensil dividers to dedicated knife and spice drawers, ensures every item has a designated place.
*Bringing in light: The original dark tile countertops (yes, tile) were replaced with Taj Mahal quartzite, and the dark navy walls were updated to a soft taupe. Heavy wood slat blinds were removed to allow natural light to flow freely into the space.
The Details
*Two-tone shaker cabinetry with warm cherry-stained bases and graphite-painted uppers adds warmth and contrast.
*A custom slat-front hood and oversized blown-glass pendants bring elegance and visual interest.
*Taj Mahal quartzite countertops brighten the kitchen while providing durability for a busy family.
*A textured tile backsplash with subtle color variation adds depth.
*A white farmhouse sink anchors the space and ties the palette together.
*Wire-brushed light brown engineered hardwood floors complement the cabinetry and existing architectural details.
The Result
A modern, timeless kitchen that balances contemporary design with the warmth and character of the home’s mountain-style architecture.
The Challenge & Solution
*Reimage the awkward l-shaped island: The original L-shaped island disrupted circulation and limited workspace. It was replaced with a more functional rectangular island positioned at an optimal distance from the perimeter cabinetry to improve flow.
*Remove the “dust” ledge: We brought the soffit down and extended the cabinetry to meet it, removing the frustrating ledge that previously collected dust and visually dated the kitchen.
*Working with existing elements: The original “orange wood” trim was minimized by painting the baseboards the same color as the walls. Wire-brushed engineered hardwood floors were selected to complement the remaining woodwork and create a cohesive backdrop for the modernized kitchen.
*Improve storage without changing the footprint: A range of custom kitchen organizers, from utensil dividers to dedicated knife and spice drawers, ensures every item has a designated place.
*Bringing in light: The original dark tile countertops (yes, tile) were replaced with Taj Mahal quartzite, and the dark navy walls were updated to a soft taupe. Heavy wood slat blinds were removed to allow natural light to flow freely into the space.
The Details
*Two-tone shaker cabinetry with warm cherry-stained bases and graphite-painted uppers adds warmth and contrast.
*A custom slat-front hood and oversized blown-glass pendants bring elegance and visual interest.
*Taj Mahal quartzite countertops brighten the kitchen while providing durability for a busy family.
*A textured tile backsplash with subtle color variation adds depth.
*A white farmhouse sink anchors the space and ties the palette together.
*Wire-brushed light brown engineered hardwood floors complement the cabinetry and existing architectural details.
The Result
A modern, timeless kitchen that balances contemporary design with the warmth and character of the home’s mountain-style architecture.
Project Year: 2024
Project Cost: $200,001 - $500,000
Country: United States
Zip Code: 96161
