CLIENT GOALS Nearly every room of this lovely Noe Valley home had been thoughtfully expanded and remodeled through its 120 years, short of the kitchen. Through this kitchen remodel, our clients wanted to remove the barrier between the kitchen and the family room and increase usability and storage for their growing family. DESIGN SOLUTION The kitchen design included modification to a load-bearing wall, which allowed for the seamless integration of the family room into the kitchen and the addition of seating at the peninsula. The kitchen layout changed considerably by incorporating the classic “triangle” (sink, range, and refrigerator), allowing for more efficient use of space. The unique and wonderful use of color in this kitchen makes it a classic – form, and function that will be fashionable for generations to come.

•Architects: Aires Mateus •Location: Lisbon, Portugal •Architect: Manuel Aires Mateus •Years: 2006-20011 •Photos by: Ricardo Oliveira Alves •Stone floor: Ancient Surface A succession of everyday spaces occupied the lower floor of this restored 18th century castle on the hillside. The existing estate illustrating a period clouded by historic neglect. The restoration plan for this castle house focused on increasing its spatial value, its open space architecture and re-positioning of its windows. The garden made it possible to enhance the depth of the view over the rooftops and the Baixa river. An existing addition was rebuilt to house to conduct more private and entertainment functions. The unexpected discovery of an old and buried wellhead and cistern in the center of the house was a pleasant surprise to the architect and owners.

This itty bitty kitchen in a historic Richmond row house had been closed in by unnecessary walls, creating a tight, dysfunctional galley style kitchen with very little storage space. Working alongside our artist and cabinetry making clients, we created a custom design with handmade, custom cabinetry pieces while opening up the kitchen to the dining area, making the space feel exponentially larger. The result is a clean, modern, functional and big energy kitchen.

This galley kitchen in Roslindale is a small space, but there is still plenty of room for beauty and functionality. Frameless alder cabinets are by Artizen. Place-n-Go flooring in ocean shale picks up the cabinets' wood tones and is low maintenance. The quartz countertop is cantilevered to create a small breakfast bar, or a space to have tea while chatting with the cook! Original historic windows were restored and weather stripped.

This kitchen remodel, located in a large historic home in Richmond’s Laburnum Park neighborhood, was designed to bring warmth, function, and longevity to a space that originally featured dated metal cabinetry. The goal was to create a kitchen that felt appropriate to the scale and character of the home, while dramatically improving how the space functioned for everyday living. Rich wood cabinetry was selected to add depth and timeless appeal, complemented by classic detailing and full-height storage that reinforces the architectural presence of the room. A large central island anchors the kitchen, providing generous prep space and a natural gathering point, while professional-grade appliances and a substantial hood create a strong, functional focal point along the cooking wall. Natural stone countertops introduce movement and warmth, pairing beautifully with the cabinetry and hardwood floors to create a layered, cohesive feel throughout the space. Perhaps most telling—this kitchen was recently revisited years after completion and remains as beautiful and functional as the day it was installed. A true testament to thoughtful planning, quality materials, and design that stands the test of time.

A respectful renovation balances historical preservation and contemporary design. A historic log cabin, reimagined for a preservation-minded couple. Working with the architect, we thoughtfully swapped extraneous wood for panoramic windows and steel I-beams. The resulting interior feels simultaneously seamless and sophisticated, open and intimate. Layers of texture lend intrigue throughout: rustic timber walls complement the client’s contemporary art collection; plush upholstery softens such as a copious cobalt sectional soften minimalist lines of metal; cozy nooks, like one bridging the living room and master suite, invite relaxation. The master transforms the historic core of the cabin into a refuge defined by logs darkened to near black. Catering to keen chefs, we designed a gourmet kitchen as functional as it is flawless; opting out of a dining room in favor of a larger family area, the expansive kitchen island seats six. Every careful detail reflects the synergy we felt with this client and their respect for both history and design.

In order to transform this pocket-sized 1920s kitchen into a family gathering space, we had to get creative, using the existing kitchen, dining area and enclosed porch. The process was further complicated as the home required a Historic Review due to its age and location. The new design includes subway tile and reclaimed wood, maintaining the room’s charm without compromising modern conveniences. Custom windows were designed to match the original windows, and the original kitchen area was transformed into a fully-functioning breakfast bar, with a twist. The breakfast bar now stores all the fixings the clients need to prep meals for their kids. When company comes over, they can convert it into a full-service bar. The granite-top island is the heart of the kitchen. It serves as both a prep station and the perfect gathering space with chairs. Underneath, the island offers near limitless storage for appliances. The most functional element of the kitchen is also the most loved by the clients — the dining banquette. This beautiful space features a custom bench with storage, custom period-specific windows and a reclaimed walnut tabletop. It’s the perfect place for the family to eat a cozy meal or host friends for dinner.

In order to transform this pocket-sized 1920s kitchen into a family gathering space, we had to get creative, using the existing kitchen, dining area and enclosed porch. The process was further complicated as the home required a Historic Review due to its age and location. The new design includes subway tile and reclaimed wood, maintaining the room’s charm without compromising modern conveniences. Custom windows were designed to match the original windows, and the original kitchen area was transformed into a fully-functioning breakfast bar, with a twist. The breakfast bar now stores all the fixings the clients need to prep meals for their kids. When company comes over, they can convert it into a full-service bar. The granite-top island is the heart of the kitchen. It serves as both a prep station and the perfect gathering space with chairs. Underneath, the island offers near limitless storage for appliances. The most functional element of the kitchen is also the most loved by the clients — the dining banquette. This beautiful space features a custom bench with storage, custom period-specific windows and a reclaimed walnut tabletop. It’s the perfect place for the family to eat a cozy meal or host friends for dinner.

Beaux arts architecture of Blairsden was inspiration for kitchen. Homeowner wanted clean airy look while repurposing cold commercial cooking space to an aesthetically pleasing functional kitchen for family and friends or for a catering staff during larger gatherings. Aside from the hand made LaCornue range, no appliances were to be be in the kitchen so as not to interfere with the aesthetic. Instead, the appliances were moved to an adjacent space and celebrated as their own aesthetic with complimentary stainless steel cabinetry and tiled walls. The color pallet of the kitchen was intentionally subtle with tones of beige white and grey. Light was reintroduced into the space by rebuilding the east and north windows. Traffic pattern was improved by moving range from south wall to north wall. Custom stainless structural window, with stainless steel screen and natural brass harlequin grill encapsulated in insulated frosted glass, was engineered to support hood and creates a stunning backdrop for the already gorgeous range. All hardware in kitchen is unlacquered natural brass intentionally selected so as to develop its own patina as it oxides over time to give a true historic quality. Other interesting point about kitchen: All cabinetry doors 5/4" All cabinetry interiors natural walnut All cabinetry interiors on sensors and light up with LED lights that are routed into frames of cabinetry Magnetic cutlery dividers in drawers enable user to reposition easily Venician plaster walls Lava stone countertops on perimeter Marble countertop island 2 level cutting boards and strainers in sink by galley workstation

This Renovation and Additions project in Northern New Mexico by Gayla Bechtol Architect reflects a sensitive approach to Adobe Architecture and Santa Fe Adobe Houses, preserving the historic character of the original structures while enhancing their functionality for contemporary living. Rooted in principles of Sustainable Architecture New Mexico, the design integrates seamlessly into the surrounding rural landscape, maintaining authenticity while ensuring modern comfort. Guided by a commitment to Historic Preservation Santa Fe and thoughtful Site and Landscape Design Santa Fe, the project balances respect for tradition with innovative architectural solutions that honor both the past and the natural environment.

This kitchen remodel beautifully blends the historic character of a home in Austin’s oldest neighborhood with a modern, highly functional design. The custom rift-sawn white oak island is the focal point, complementing the home’s high ceilings and architectural details. The soft Egret White perimeter cabinets offer a timeless contrast, while the striking Mont Blanc Quartzite countertops and backsplash create a cohesive, luxurious look. A Venetian plaster range hood adds old-world charm, and custom glass bell pendants illuminate the island with subtle elegance. Outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances, including a full Wolf package, and timeless fixtures, this kitchen perfectly balances form and function.

This family wanted a classic home design without losing the functionality they needed to accommodate their four children. They lit the room with the gorgeous Ava blown glass chandelier and Walthall wall sconces which the homeowner says "absolutely transformed the space". This living room design is elegant but functional and forgiving!

Since it was built in 1910 by Alfred and Grace Hare this home has been lovingly cared for by it’s past and present owners, and for that care it was declared a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument. The home’s charm is everywhere: stone porch, shingles, original wood wainscoting and trims, glass buffet, but our clients’ young family had desperately outgrown the tiny kitchen. With thought, care, and quality workmanship an addition at the rear afforded them a new kitchen and main bedroom suite. Hive Home designed the kitchen to marry modern function with the home’s historic whimsy, creating a fresh space that feels right at home. The main bath is a soothing respite with a custom colored historic tile floor and a generous shower space. So many subtle details were decided on (keep an eye out for the hares), and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the result. We hope our clients love their new space for many happy years to come!

Located in Huntington Bay on Long Island, this historical waterfront home was meticulously renovated and expanded by Stokkers & Company. The interior was transformed to create functional living spaces with a coastal aesthetic, all while maintaining the traditional heritage of the home’s exterior.

The garage remodel seamlessly blends with the home’s existing architecture, utilizing matching materials and replicating key architectural details. This sensitive approach preserves the historical integrity of the Nakoma Neighborhood, while the addition of a 2-car garage provides much-needed convenience. The result is a harmonious fusion of modern functionality and classic charm, transforming everyday life for the homeowners.

The clients asked our firm to redesign, and help them to rebuild their 1950’s home in historic Riverside flooded by hurricane Florence. By removing the wall and the old fireplace that separated the kitchen from the living room, we created a more functional, open and well-lit space. Today the couple has moved back to their cozy, bright and updated home, and enjoying their comfortable and beautiful spaces.

The garage remodel seamlessly blends with the home’s existing architecture, utilizing matching materials and replicating key architectural details. This sensitive approach preserves the historical integrity of the Nakoma Neighborhood, while the addition of a 2-car garage provides much-needed convenience. The result is a harmonious fusion of modern functionality and classic charm, transforming everyday life for the homeowners.

You would never know that this light and airy laundry room is in the basement of a historic house. With the right proportions on custom cabinetry Fritz Carpentry & Contracting was able to make this tight space feel open while maintaining functionality. Overlay, shaker cabinets handcrafted by Fritz Carpentry & Contracting are complimented by custom shiplap and a floating walnut wall shelf.

This large addition to this historic New Orleans Garden District home keeps a traditional feel with up to date function. In order to boost storage for this family of 6, cabinets were double stacked. With room to spare this area serves as the family's main meeting space.