Search results for "Ample activities" in Home Design Ideas

This very typical, 1947 built, story-and-a-half home in South Minneapolis had a small ‘U’ shaped kitchen adjacent to a similarly small dining room. These homeowners needed more space to prepare meals and store all the items needed in a modern kitchen. With a standard side entry access there was no more than a landing at the top of the basement stairs – no place to hang coats or even take off shoes!
Many years earlier, a small screened-in porch had been added off the dining room, but it was getting minimal use in our Minnesota climate.
With a new, spacious, family room addition in the place of the old screen porch and a 5’ expansion off the kitchen and side entry, along with removing the wall between the kitchen and the dining room, this home underwent a total transformation. What was once small cramped spaces is now a wide open great room containing kitchen, dining and family gathering spaces. As a bonus, a bright and functional mudroom was included to meet all their active family’s storage needs.
Natural light now flows throughout the space and Carrara marble accents in both the kitchen and around the fireplace tie the rooms together quite nicely! An ample amount of kitchen storage space was gained with Bayer Interior Woods cabinetry and stainless steel appliances are one of many modern conveniences this family can now enjoy daily. The flooring selection (Red Oak hardwood floors) will not only last for decades to come but also adds a warm feel to the whole home.
See full details (including before photos) on our website at http://www.castlebri.com/wholehouse/project-2408-1/ Designed by: Mark Benzell

The T40 Features:
1. SPACIOUS SHALLOW END BENCH SEAT
Want to take a break from the action and hang out with some friends? This seating area is properly sized to accommodate the whole family.
2. LARGE SHALLOW END FOR SOCIALIZING AND PLAY
The problem with most deep end pools is the tiny shallow end, which is where most people gather. The T40 shallow end is 30% larger than the industry standard deep end pool.
3. OPEN POOL INTERIOR
Want plenty of room to float and frolic? The rectangular design of the T40 provides ample room for all of your pool activities.
4. DEEP END SEATS / EXIT POINTS
When using deep end pools, people love to jump in, exit, and repeat. The deep end seats of the T40 provide a place to get in and out, as well as take a rest.
5. MASSIVE 8' 6" DEEP END
Looking for lots of water? The T40 is 6" deeper than most of the fiberglass deep end pools on the market.
6. AUTOMATIC COVER FRIENDLY
The rectangular design of the T40 allows cover tracks to be hidden beneath the pool coping, protecting them and keeping them out of sight.
This customer has their Backyard Oasis furnished with both patio furniture, tables and loungers in addition to the shrubbery that ascetically hides the Equipment Pad.
Their Pool is trimmed with Marmiro Stone Travertine Coping.
It has a Slide, Basketball Hoop, Ledge Lounger Jets, and a Handicap Accessible entry point.

A clean, transitional home design. This home focuses on ample and open living spaces for the family, as well as impressive areas for hosting family and friends. The quality of materials chosen, combined with simple and understated lines throughout, creates a perfect canvas for this family’s life. Contrasting whites, blacks, and greys create a dramatic backdrop for an active and loving lifestyle.
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K&P Builder's Federal floor plan, available at Kingsview in Charles County, is fabulous!
With a large square footage, this kitchen will please the most demanding of chefs! The appliances include a stainless steel micro/oven combination, a beautiful stainless refrigerator and dishwasher. The cabinets are La Cerise, by Armstrong, and are a raised panel cherry cabinet. There are other special details like turned island legs, a wine rack, and other cabinet features. The island countertop is in contrast to the perimeter countertops, offering a fresh and interesting look.
The overall space includes a side morning room, creating the expansive area you see, with sofa and chair. To the left you will find ample area to fit a beautiful round table and chairs, as shown.
This kitchen also features a desk area, the perfect spot for doing bills and handling mail.
This beautiful floor plan can be customized to suit your individual tastes, only at Kingsview in Charles County.
Kingsview offers great amenities to those who seek an active lifestyle, with a pool, tennis courts, soccer fields and walking trails.
Kingsview is conveniently located in Charles County and offers an easy commute to Washington DC, Virginia and the area Bases!

The T40 Features:
1. SPACIOUS SHALLOW END BENCH SEAT
Want to take a break from the action and hang out with some friends? This seating area is properly sized to accommodate the whole family.
2. LARGE SHALLOW END FOR SOCIALIZING AND PLAY
The problem with most deep end pools is the tiny shallow end, which is where most people gather. The T40 shallow end is 30% larger than the industry standard deep end pool.
3. OPEN POOL INTERIOR
Want plenty of room to float and frolic? The rectangular design of the T40 provides ample room for all of your pool activities.
4. DEEP END SEATS / EXIT POINTS
When using deep end pools, people love to jump in, exit, and repeat. The deep end seats of the T40 provide a place to get in and out, as well as take a rest.
5. MASSIVE 8' 6" DEEP END
Looking for lots of water? The T40 is 6" deeper than most of the fiberglass deep end pools on the market.
6. AUTOMATIC COVER FRIENDLY
The rectangular design of the T40 allows cover tracks to be hidden beneath the pool coping, protecting them and keeping them out of sight.
This customer has their Backyard Oasis furnished with both patio furniture, tables and loungers in addition to the shrubbery that ascetically hides the Equipment Pad.
Their Pool is trimmed with Marmiro Stone Travertine Coping.
It has a Slide, Basketball Hoop, Ledge Lounger Jets, and a Handicap Accessible entry point.

This very typical, 1947 built, story-and-a-half home in South Minneapolis had a small ‘U’ shaped kitchen adjacent to a similarly small dining room. These homeowners needed more space to prepare meals and store all the items needed in a modern kitchen. With a standard side entry access there was no more than a landing at the top of the basement stairs – no place to hang coats or even take off shoes!
Many years earlier, a small screened-in porch had been added off the dining room, but it was getting minimal use in our Minnesota climate.
With a new, spacious, family room addition in the place of the old screen porch and a 5’ expansion off the kitchen and side entry, along with removing the wall between the kitchen and the dining room, this home underwent a total transformation. What was once small cramped spaces is now a wide open great room containing kitchen, dining and family gathering spaces. As a bonus, a bright and functional mudroom was included to meet all their active family’s storage needs.
Natural light now flows throughout the space and Carrara marble accents in both the kitchen and around the fireplace tie the rooms together quite nicely! An ample amount of kitchen storage space was gained with Bayer Interior Woods cabinetry and stainless steel appliances are one of many modern conveniences this family can now enjoy daily. The flooring selection (Red Oak hardwood floors) will not only last for decades to come but also adds a warm feel to the whole home.
See full details (including before photos) on our website at http://www.castlebri.com/wholehouse/project-2408-1/ Designed by: Mark Benzell

Cozy boys sports themed bedroom complete with built in study area, ample storage, queen size bed and the boys favorite sporting activities life size on the walls.

The T40 Features:
1. SPACIOUS SHALLOW END BENCH SEAT
Want to take a break from the action and hang out with some friends? This seating area is properly sized to accommodate the whole family.
2. LARGE SHALLOW END FOR SOCIALIZING AND PLAY
The problem with most deep end pools is the tiny shallow end, which is where most people gather. The T40 shallow end is 30% larger than the industry standard deep end pool.
3. OPEN POOL INTERIOR
Want plenty of room to float and frolic? The rectangular design of the T40 provides ample room for all of your pool activities.
4. DEEP END SEATS / EXIT POINTS
When using deep end pools, people love to jump in, exit, and repeat. The deep end seats of the T40 provide a place to get in and out, as well as take a rest.
5. MASSIVE 8' 6" DEEP END
Looking for lots of water? The T40 is 6" deeper than most of the fiberglass deep end pools on the market.
6. AUTOMATIC COVER FRIENDLY
The rectangular design of the T40 allows cover tracks to be hidden beneath the pool coping, protecting them and keeping them out of sight.
This customer has their Backyard Oasis furnished with both patio furniture, tables and loungers in addition to the shrubbery that ascetically hides the Equipment Pad.
Their Pool is trimmed with Marmiro Stone Travertine Coping.
It has a Slide, Basketball Hoop, Ledge Lounger Jets, and a Handicap Accessible entry point.

The basement features a well-appointed kitchen and a separate living area, creating a versatile and inviting space. The kitchen is designed with modern appliances, ample cabinetry, and stylish finishes, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Adjacent to the kitchen, the separate living area offers a comfortable and private retreat, ideal for relaxation or hosting guests. This thoughtfully designed basement combines functionality with comfort, making it an ideal space for various activities, from family gatherings to independent living.

The client approached us with a clear vision in mind for their kitchen in Fraserburgh: an open-plan, modern design that would accommodate their large family. Essential to this vision was the integration of an island, complete with a secondary eating area. This space was not only to be visually appealing but also functionally efficient, as it would need to cater to family gatherings and daily activities. The desire for ample seating and a spacious table, along with additional specific storage solutions, set the stage for our design choices.
Drawing inspiration from the client's requirements, we opted for the Nolte Feel range, complemented by Silver MatrixArt handleless trims. The primary colour for the furniture was chosen as white, with a contrasting accent in Feel Lava to add a touch of modern sophistication. To further enhance the open feel, we made structural modifications: the existing kitchen window was lowered to usher in more natural light and provide an improved viewing angle. Additionally, the entrance to the sun lounge was broadened to foster a more expansive atmosphere.
A kitchen's functionality is determined largely by its worktops and appliances. For this space, we used a sturdy 40mm thick Nolte Silver Ash worktop, providing both durability and style. In terms of appliances, we decided upon NEFF's range, which included a single oven, combination microwave, induction hob, and ceiling extraction, ensuring the client's culinary needs were well catered for.
Recognising the family's unique requirements, we introduced several bespoke features. The Blanco Metra sink in Tartufo and the Quooker Fusion Square Stainless Steel instant boiling water tap combined functionality with modern aesthetics. With the client's large family in mind, we constructed a matching Nolte table and a built-in seating bench replete with storage drawers, maximising both seating and storage. Additionally, a custom-built unit for log storage was designed, mirroring the style of the kitchen, to serve their log-burning stove. The flooring, using Quickstep Arte, tied everything together, adding a touch of elegance to the room.
Experience your dream kitchen with us. Reach out today to start your bespoke kitchen journey.

home that caters to an outdoor, active lifestyle, with all the amenities that complete a space made for entertaining. Shingle shakes, board and batten, and stone come together on the exterior, exuding a casual elegance. This rustic cottage is part of a golf course community and was designed to allow homeowners to get the most out of their surroundings. The living space, with its vaulted ceiling, maximizes sweeping views of the fairway, and the garage includes space for the family’s personal golf cart. A spacious patio and screened porch connected to the dining area make outdoor living convenient and comfortable. The open kitchen includes island seating and a walk-in pantry. The main floor master suite is easily accessible and boasts lovely views of the surrounding flora. The upper level of the home makes a family-oriented lifestyle easy with two guest suites. Each bedroom has private access to its own bathroom and includes ample closet space for children or guests. Whether for a family, entertaining or simply relaxing, the Stockton is a home that accommodates with style.
Photographer: Visbeen Architects, Inc.
Builder: Falcon Custom Homes

Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four.
The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area.
Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove.
Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen.
The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher.
We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash.
The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall.
We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

A Luxury Condo Renovation In Pelican Bay, Naples, FL
Nestled in the heart of beautiful Pelican Bay in Naples, Florida, a luxury condo renovation is underway. This multi-phase renovation project will bring a unique and luxurious living experience to its future inhabitants. Let's take a look at some of the special features that will make this condo stand out from the rest.
Custom Ceiling Design
The main feature of this renovation is the custom ceiling design. This one-of-a-kind design includes an intricate pattern with recessed lighting that creates a unique atmosphere to match the condo’s luxurious vibe. Not only does the custom ceiling add visual appeal to the space, but it also illuminates light throughout the entire room creating an inviting and warm ambiance for all to enjoy.
Custom Lighting
The custom lighting in this luxury condo renovation creates a cozy and inviting feel for those who enter. With soft yet bright surrounds that illuminate every corner of each room, visitors will feel like they are home as soon as they set foot inside. Along with providing ample lighting for activities such as reading or cooking, these lights can also be adjusted to create a romantic and intimate atmosphere when needed.
Open Kitchen
For those who love to cook and entertain, the open kitchen is perfect for hosting friends and family gatherings alike. The layout features top-of-the-line appliances along with plenty of countertop space for meal preparation or baking projects. To complete this kitchen oasis is an eat-in island equipped with plush seating for four making it easy to enjoy meals together while overlooking stunning views of Pelican Bay outside the window.
Custom Sliding Doors
If you love outdoor living then you will appreciate these custom sliding doors that open up onto your own private balcony overlooking Naples’ breathtaking shoreline. Whether you choose to sit outside and relax or entertain guests under the stars, these sliding doors are designed to maximize your views while still providing maximum privacy when closed and locked securely shut when not in use.
Walk-In Tub Shower Combo
Last but certainly not least is this spa-inspired walk-in tub shower combo featuring a built-in steam system perfect for relaxing after long days spent exploring all that Naples has to offer. From its adjustable jets to its marble accents, this modern bathtub offers everything you need to escape from reality in style!
All in all, this multi-phased luxury condo renovation in Pelican Bay promises something special for anyone looking for their dream home within Naples' finest neighborhood. From its custom ceiling design and custom lighting options down to its walk-in tub shower combo—every aspect has been carefully crafted with one goal in mind—to provide luxury living like no other! So if you're looking for an exquisite place where you can relax and unwind surrounded by beauty, then look no further than here!
About Pelican Bay
Pelican Bay, located in Naples, Florida, is an upscale planned community and country club. Spanning three miles of pristine shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, Pelican Bay offers its residents and visitors a stunning selection of amenities. Residents have access to shopping and dining at the impressive Waterside shops as well as enjoying one of two premier luxury golf courses within the development. The beachfront location allows for sunbathing on some of the prettiest beaches in Florida. Away from the ocean waters, visitors can explore the two parks that are situated within the community or take advantage of kayaking or canoeing around its coves. Pelican Bay is a perfect destination for those looking for a luxurious escape to paradise combined with natural beauty and convenience.
Award-Winning House Builders in Florida
For Florida homeowners looking for award-winning house builders to build their dream home, look no further than Signal House. Boasting a long track record of best-in-class construction services, our dedicated professionals have gone above and beyond to earn the trust of homeowners throughout the region.
Taking pride in our work, we make sure that every project is completed with precision and efficiency and meets the highest industry standards. Offering consultation, design, planning and execution services, we are ready and willing to take on any challenge. Whether it’s upgrading an existing property or creating something entirely new from scratch, you can be sure that your home project won’t just meet expectations but exceed them. With experienced teams of talented interior designers, architects and construction experts, you’re guaranteed a project that stands apart from the crowd and brings out the best in your home.

THE SETUP
This project was a natural extension of a nearby kitchen remodel, emphasizing seamless integration and enhanced functionality. By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, we transformed a previously underutilized space into a central hub for both daily living and vibrant social gatherings. This transformation capitalized on the dining room’s potential, turning it from a cluttered storage area to a key entertaining space.
Design Objectives:
Foster an open-air design that harmonizes with the adjacent kitchen, enhancing the flow of both spaces.
Infuse the dining room with design elements that reflect the client’s dynamic personality and make it ideal for large gatherings.
Integrate a multifunctional wet bar to elevate the room’s utility and entertainment capacity.
Design Challenges:
Rerouting necessary HVAC ductwork due to the removal of the wall shared with the kitchen.
Relocating essential appliances such as a fridge/freezer and double oven without compromising the room’s aesthetic.
Incorporating bar-specific appliances in a way that avoids a commercial appearance.
Retaining the client’s large, marble dining table while maintaining a cohesive design that aligns with the new kitchen aesthetics.
Introducing plumbing into a space previously devoid of such infrastructure.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Added a secondary HVAC unit on the upper floor and adjusted the ductwork to accommodate the open layout.
Strategically relocated the fridge/freezer to a more functional location in the kitchen and substituted the double oven with an oven/steam oven combination, placed near the kitchen for accessibility yet distanced from heavy traffic areas.
Employed wood paneling extensively along the new bar/appliance wall, concealing most appliances while tastefully displaying essential ones. The wall now features a sophisticated ensemble of a wine dispenser, wine fridge, ice maker, refrigerator drawers, and the new oven duo.
Meticulously designed the bar/appliance wall to parallel the large marble dining table, ensuring it complemented the table’s grandeur while enhancing functionality. The wall is not only aesthetically aligned with the kitchen’s new look but also offers ample counter space to support dining and social activities at the table.
Installed new plumbing lines to support the wet bar and sink installation, ensuring all new fixtures were fully operational and aesthetically integrated into the design without disrupting the room’s overall style.
The new dining room/wet bar has quickly become the centerpiece of the home, captivating guests upon entry and drawing them into its stylish and inviting ambiance. Designed for versatility, it excels in hosting both intimate dinners and large-scale gatherings. The client is thrilled with this transformation, which not only meets but surpasses her expectations for a space that combines everyday functionality with exceptional hosting capabilities.

Transform your entryway into a sleek, organized, and welcoming space! This custom project features modern white cabinetry paired with built-in open shelving, offering ample storage for your essentials. A standout feature is the long bench with shoe storage underneath—a practical and stylish solution ideal for busy individuals running errands or active families with kids.
At Kitchens and More NW, we specialize in creating spaces that combine beauty and function. This entryway is designed not only to keep your home tidy but also to make daily routines smoother and more enjoyable. The custom cabinetry is built to last, featuring durable construction, soft-close hardware, and the strongest joints in the industry, ensuring long-term reliability and elegance.
Whether it’s a sleek mudroom, a clutter-free foyer, or a stylish family hub, we work with you to craft designs that fit your lifestyle.
As a family-owned and operated business with over 35 years of experience in the Pacific Northwest, we take pride in delivering personalized service, top-quality craftsmanship, and cabinetry that transforms homes into functional works of art.
Let us help you create a welcoming entryway you’ll love for years to come! Contact us today for your FREE consultation and estimate.
? 503-648-0499
? Visit KitchensAndMoreNW.com
Rick Schafer Photography

The Monolith Features:
1. SPACIOUS SHALLOW END BENCH SEAT
Want to take a break from the action and hang out with some friends? This seating area is properly sized to accommodate the whole family.
2. LARGE SHALLOW END FOR SOCIALIZING AND PLAY
The problem with most deep end pools is the tiny shallow end, which is where most people gather.
3. OPEN POOL INTERIOR
Want plenty of room to float and frolic? The rectangular design of the Monolith provides ample room for all of your pool activities.
4. DEEP END SEATS / EXIT POINTS
When using deep end pools, people love to jump in, exit and repeat. The deep end seats of the Monolith provide a place to get in and out, as well as take a rest.
5. MASSIVE 8' 6" DEEP END
Looking for lots of water? The Monolith is 6" deeper than most of the fiberglass deep end pools on the market.
6. AUTOMATIC COVER FRIENDLY
The rectangular design of the Monolith allows cover tracks to be hidden beneath the pool coping, protecting them.

Step into a modern basement home theater great room with a sleek built-in media wall and an open layout. The space boasts white walls and a nearly white light wood floor, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere. Large pot lights strategically placed on the ceiling offer ample illumination, while the media wall houses a spacious flat-screen TV, making it the perfect spot for movie nights and gaming sessions. Versatile seating arrangements, including reclining sofas and cozy bean bags, allow for various activities. With its clean and contemporary design, this room combines elegance and functionality for an exceptional entertainment experience.

The Setup:
After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry.
Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home.
Design Objectives:
- Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options.
- Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout.
Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic.
- Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy.
- Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting.
- Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic.
- Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature.
Design Challenges:
- The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family.
- The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in.
- The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances.
- Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy.
- The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim.
- The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy.
- Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning.
The Renewed Space
Design Solutions:
- A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities.
- Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry.
- Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design.
- Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering.
- Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting.
- Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic.
- Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character.
- This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

The Setup:
After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry.
Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home.
Design Objectives:
- Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options.
- Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout.
Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic.
- Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy.
- Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting.
- Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic.
- Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature.
Design Challenges:
- The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family.
- The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in.
- The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances.
- Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy.
- The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim.
- The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy.
- Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning.
The Renewed Space
Design Solutions:
- A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities.
- Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry.
- Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design.
- Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering.
- Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting.
- Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic.
- Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character.
- This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

A clean, transitional home design. This home focuses on ample and open living spaces for the family, as well as impressive areas for hosting family and friends. The quality of materials chosen, combined with simple and understated lines throughout, creates a perfect canvas for this family’s life. Contrasting whites, blacks, and greys create a dramatic backdrop for an active and loving lifestyle.
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