Search results for "Lacks ample" in Home Design Ideas

This home is a bachelor’s dream, but it didn’t start that way. It began with a young man purchasing his first single-family home in Westlake Village. The house was dated from the late 1980s, dark, and closed off. In other words, it felt like a man cave — not a home. It needed a masculine makeover.
He turned to his friend, who spoke highly of their experience with us. We had remodeled and designed their home, now known as the “Oak Park Soiree.” The result of this home’s new, open floorplan assured him we could provide the same flow and functionality to his own home. He put his trust in our hands, and the construction began.
The entry of our client’s original home had no “wow factor.” As you walked in, you noticed a staircase enclosed by a wall, making the space feel bulky and uninviting. Our team elevated the entry by designing a new modern staircase with a see-through railing. We even took advantage of the area under the stairs by building a wine cellar underneath it… because wine not?
Down the hall, the kitchen and family room used to be separated by a wall. The kitchen lacked countertop and storage space, and the family room had a high ceiling open to the second floor. This floorplan didn’t function well with our client’s lifestyle. He wanted one large space that allowed him to entertain family and friends while at the same time, not having to worry about noise traveling upstairs. Our architects crafted a new floorplan to make the kitchen, breakfast nook, and family room flow together as a great room. We removed the obstructing wall and enclosed the high ceiling above the family room by building a new loft space above.
The kitchen area of the great room is now the heart of the home! Our client and his guests have plenty of space to gather around the oversized island with additional seating. The walls are surrounded by custom Crystal cabinetry, and the countertops glisten with Vadara quartz, providing ample cooking and storage space. To top it all off, we installed several new appliances, including a built-in fridge and coffee machine, a Miele 48-inch range, and a beautifully designed boxed ventilation hood with brass strapping and contrasting color.
There is now an effortless transition from the kitchen to the family room, where your eyes are drawn to the newly centered, linear fireplace surrounded by floating shelves. Its backlighting spotlights the purposefully placed symmetrical décor inside it. Next to this focal point lies a LaCantina bi-fold door leading to the backyard’s sparkling new pool and additional outdoor living space. Not only does the wide door create a seamless transition to the outside, but it also brings an abundance of natural light into the home.
Once in need of a masculine makeover, this home’s sexy black and gold finishes paired with additional space for wine and guests to have a good time make it a bachelor’s dream.
Photographer: Andrew Orozco

The original kitchen was disjointed and lacked connection to the home and its history. The remodel opened the room to other areas of the home by incorporating an unused breakfast nook and enclosed porch to create a spacious new kitchen. It features stunning soapstone counters and range splash, era appropriate subway tiles, and hand crafted floating shelves. Ceasarstone on the island creates a durable, hardworking surface for prep work. A black Blue Star range anchors the space while custom inset fir cabinets wrap the walls and provide ample storage. Great care was given in restoring and recreating historic details for this charming Foursquare kitchen.

This expansive first floor takes luxury to the next level. A once dreary and dark kitchen, lacking in function, takes on a new look. Natural light floods through the kitchen with wall-to-wall windows, highlighting the gorgeous wood texture from the rift sawn white oak and walnut inset cabinets. A french La Corneau range provides a beautiful focal point, paired with layered designer lighting and various stones.
A host’s dream space for entertaining with a hidden pantry, fully stocked with a chefs sink, dishwasher, and wall oven with ample storage for dry goods and small appliances.
A morning brew or 5'oclock cocktail can be found in the fully loaded wet bar stocked with an integrated espresso maker, ice maker, refrigerator, freezer, wine cooler, and spirits collected from traveling the globe. Cheers!
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For this project, we transformed the top floor of a Park Slope brownstone into a modern, lightfilled
home tailored to the needs of a busy couple. The original space was outdated and lacked
cohesion, so our design focused on creating a harmonious and functional layout that reflects the
clients’ lifestyle while introducing moments of drama and creativity.
At the heart of the penthouse is an open-concept dining room, living room, and kitchen. The
living room accommodates multiple areas, including a cozy seating nook illuminated by
multicolored glass pendant lights. A dramatic custom-built feature spans the entire length of the
living room, integrating storage, display areas, and a unique guardwall that separates the
staircase to the couple's rooftop garden from the living space. This built-in showcases a dynamic
geometric design, with select sections backed in soft mauve for depth and visual interest. Along
the front of the space, a bespoke oak window seat with modern slatted wood fronts conceals the
AC and radiators while providing ample storage. The main seating area centers around a creamy
marble fireplace surround, a refined focal point in the living area. Wide-plank oak flooring
extends throughout the apartment and up the staircase, where a minimal aesthetic enhances the
clean, modern feel.
The kitchen continues the theme of modern sophistication with a palette of soft white lacquered
lower cabinets and oak upper cabinetry. The countertops and backsplash are crafted from a
striking quartzite in cream, peach, and mauve tones, adding a subtle vibrancy to the space. A
cream-enameled range takes center stage, complemented by a hidden coffee station and a
dedicated cabinet for AV supplies, ensuring a clutter-free aesthetic.
The hall guest bathroom is a playful yet refined mix of materials and textures. Peach-toned
concrete tiles cover the walls, while the floor features cream zellige tiles. Brass fixtures, a brass
mirror, and a brass wall sconce lend a touch of warmth and luxury, harmonizing with the custom
pecan-veneered vanity and custom concrete sink,
The primary bedroom suite is a serene retreat, painted in a rich, deep blue that sets a calming
tone. Accessed through a bespoke millwork closet, the ensuite bathroom is a small yet striking
space, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship. The rear wall of the shower is clad in floor-toceiling
slabs of light blue quartzite, creating a dramatic focal point visible from the bedroom.
This quartzite extends seamlessly to form a sculptural bench within the shower, which transitions
outward into a custom sink. Beneath the sink, two wood drawers provide discreet storage. The
remaining walls are finished in soft beige Moroccan tadelakt plaster, adding a warm contrast to
the cool tones of the quartzite.
This Park Slope penthouse is a carefully curated blend of modern elegance and thoughtful
functionality, with bespoke details and rich materiality that celebrate both the character of the
space and the needs of its owners.

Before the transformation this home was heavy traditional with a prolific use of European antiques. The furniture and art in the ample living room were under-scaled and lacking in cohesion.
Clean lines and a neutral palette were introduced. Obelisk Home outfitted the entire living room with large comfortable furnishings in soothing grays, creams and reclaimed woods. A large library cabinet balanced the fireplace and was filled with antique books and the client’s aviary collectibles. A long reclaimed pine console was placed in front of a bank of windows drawing attention to the beautiful patio. The client’s antique breakfast table used as an end table was the pivot point between the two styles. Original art with pastoral themes breathed much needed color and energy into the space.
Photos by Randy Colwell

The modern kitchen boasts a clean, minimalist aesthetic. The centerpiece is a large white island, its smooth surface gleaming under recessed lighting. Stainless steel appliances flank the back wall, their sleek lines reflecting the light. Dark hardwood floors ground the space, adding warmth and a touch of contrast. Ample storage is hidden within the white cabinets, their clean lines uninterrupted by hardware.
While minimalist, the kitchen doesn't lack personality. A cluster of pendant lamps in brushed chrome hangs above the island, casting a warm glow. A pop of color graces the backsplash – perhaps a mosaic tile in shades of blue and green, adding a touch of visual interest. Sunlight streams through the window, highlighting the breakfast bar tucked into one end of the island, perfect for casual meals or catching up with loved ones.

The client, a single man in his thirties, was unhappy with his dark, closed-off home. He wanted a space for entertaining but lacked a functional kitchen and dining area. The master bathroom also felt cramped and outdated.
To address these issues, we focused on creating an open-concept kitchen with a dedicated entertainment zone and a multifunctional island. We also updated the master bathroom with a walk-in shower and floating vanity. Additionally, we modernized the front entrance and mudroom with improved storage solutions.
Key features of the renovation include:
Open-concept kitchen: Removed the wall between the kitchen and dining room to create a more spacious and inviting area.
Entertainment zone: Added a stylish bar area and a space for a large TV to create a dedicated space for socializing and watching TV.
Multifunctional island: Designed a large island that can be used for food preparation, casual dining, and socializing.
Ample storage: Incorporated custom cabinets and drawers to keep the kitchen organized and clutter-free.
Master bathroom renovation: Installed a spacious walk-in shower and a floating vanity to create a more modern and spa-like feel.
Front entrance and mudroom update: Modernized the entrance with updated fixtures and added clever storage solutions.
The final result is a stylish and functional home that perfectly reflects the client's personality and lifestyle.

When all but the master suite was redesigned in a newly-purchased home, an opportunity arose for transformation.
Lack of storage, low-height counters and an unnecessary closet space were all undesirable.
Closing off the adjacent closet allowed for wider and taller vanities and a make-up station in the bathroom. Eliminating the tub, a shower sizable to wash large dogs is nestled by the windows offering ample light. The water-closet sits where the previous shower was, paired with French doors creating an airy feel while maintaining privacy.

When all but the master suite was redesigned in a newly-purchased home, an opportunity arose for transformation.
Lack of storage, low-height counters and an unnecessary closet space were all undesirable.
Closing off the adjacent closet allowed for wider and taller vanities and a make-up station in the bathroom. Eliminating the tub, a shower sizable to wash large dogs is nestled by the windows offering ample light. The water-closet sits where the previous shower was, paired with French doors creating an airy feel while maintaining privacy.

For this project, we transformed the top floor of a Park Slope brownstone into a modern, lightfilled
home tailored to the needs of a busy couple. The original space was outdated and lacked
cohesion, so our design focused on creating a harmonious and functional layout that reflects the
clients’ lifestyle while introducing moments of drama and creativity.
At the heart of the penthouse is an open-concept dining room, living room, and kitchen. The
living room accommodates multiple areas, including a cozy seating nook illuminated by
multicolored glass pendant lights. A dramatic custom-built feature spans the entire length of the
living room, integrating storage, display areas, and a unique guardwall that separates the
staircase to the couple's rooftop garden from the living space. This built-in showcases a dynamic
geometric design, with select sections backed in soft mauve for depth and visual interest. Along
the front of the space, a bespoke oak window seat with modern slatted wood fronts conceals the
AC and radiators while providing ample storage. The main seating area centers around a creamy
marble fireplace surround, a refined focal point in the living area. Wide-plank oak flooring
extends throughout the apartment and up the staircase, where a minimal aesthetic enhances the
clean, modern feel.
The kitchen continues the theme of modern sophistication with a palette of soft white lacquered
lower cabinets and oak upper cabinetry. The countertops and backsplash are crafted from a
striking quartzite in cream, peach, and mauve tones, adding a subtle vibrancy to the space. A
cream-enameled range takes center stage, complemented by a hidden coffee station and a
dedicated cabinet for AV supplies, ensuring a clutter-free aesthetic.
The hall guest bathroom is a playful yet refined mix of materials and textures. Peach-toned
concrete tiles cover the walls, while the floor features cream zellige tiles. Brass fixtures, a brass
mirror, and a brass wall sconce lend a touch of warmth and luxury, harmonizing with the custom
pecan-veneered vanity and custom concrete sink,
The primary bedroom suite is a serene retreat, painted in a rich, deep blue that sets a calming
tone. Accessed through a bespoke millwork closet, the ensuite bathroom is a small yet striking
space, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship. The rear wall of the shower is clad in floor-toceiling
slabs of light blue quartzite, creating a dramatic focal point visible from the bedroom.
This quartzite extends seamlessly to form a sculptural bench within the shower, which transitions
outward into a custom sink. Beneath the sink, two wood drawers provide discreet storage. The
remaining walls are finished in soft beige Moroccan tadelakt plaster, adding a warm contrast to
the cool tones of the quartzite.
This Park Slope penthouse is a carefully curated blend of modern elegance and thoughtful
functionality, with bespoke details and rich materiality that celebrate both the character of the
space and the needs of its owners.

This project centered on helping a wonderful client and her equally fantastic dog transform her condo into a space that truly reflected her style and simplified her life. Eager to create a home that was both beautiful and functional, she envisioned a haven in the heart of the city.
Before: Feeling Disconnected
Before the renovation, our client felt disconnected from her condo. The builder-grade kitchen was a constant source of frustration, with an awkward peninsula that hindered the flow of the space. The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality. The foyer and laundry areas were cramped and lacked organization, while the mismatched hardwood flooring only added to the disjointed atmosphere. As for the bathrooms, they felt frozen in time, desperately needing an update.
Worries and Concerns
Like many homeowners, our client had heard her fair share of renovation horror stories—tales of projects gone awry and the frustrations of managing multiple contractors. She was understandably cautious and needed a trustworthy, experienced team she could rely on to handle the project with care and expertise.
The Solution: A Personalized Transformation
We took the time to listen carefully to our client’s needs and concerns and developed a tailored plan to address each of her pain points. For the kitchen, we preserved the existing layout but reimagined the space entirely. The awkward peninsula was redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide much-needed storage and counter space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-outs, shelving, concealed drawers in the toe kicks, and an appliance garage, were incorporated. The kitchen now boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with light wood-tone lower cabinetry, off-white upper cabinets, and brushed nickel hardware that ties it all together.
The laundry room, once cramped and chaotic, was transformed into an organized, efficient space. We added custom cabinetry with pull-outs for hanging clothes, open storage above, a laundry sink, and a spacious counter for folding—no more piles of laundry!
Both the en-suite and shared bathrooms underwent complete renovations. Custom cabinetry was installed, including a floor-to-ceiling linen closet, and light grey and brown-toned tiles were selected, with contrasting hexagonal tiles for the shower floor. A heated flooring system was added for luxury and comfort year-round.
The mismatched flooring throughout the condo was replaced with cohesive vinyl and porcelain tiles, creating a seamless, modern aesthetic throughout the space.
Overcoming Challenges
As with any renovation, there were challenges to navigate. One of the key obstacles was managing the condo board’s renovation rules and policies while coordinating the delivery schedules for finishes and fixtures, especially during the busy holiday season. With careful planning, we ensured the project stayed on track. Additionally, we encountered a height variation between the tile and vinyl flooring. To resolve this, we used self-leveling material under the vinyl, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between the two flooring types.
The Grand Reveal: A Dream Come True
The final result is simply stunning. The kitchen is now a chef’s dream, with custom-built cabinets, smooth quartz countertops, and a matching stone backsplash. Brushed nickel and stainless steel plumbing fixtures, elegant cabinet hardware, and LED lighting under the upper cabinets add the perfect finishing touches. Custom organizers in the foyer and laundry closets provide ample storage and keep everything neatly in place. The bathrooms have been transformed into spa-like retreats, with beautiful porcelain tiles and custom cabinetry. The new vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas and bedroom unifies the space, creating a cohesive and modern atmosphere.
Life Transformed
Our client’s life has been completely transformed. As a passionate cook, she now relishes spending time in her beautiful and functional kitchen. The single-bowl sink makes cleanup a breeze, and the thoughtfully designed storage solutions have brought a sense of calm and order to her home. The refreshed flooring and neutral paint palette have created a relaxing, comfortable environment she truly loves.
A Memorable Journey
This project was more than just a renovation—it was a collaboration. Our client valued our guidance throughout the design process, particularly when faced with the overwhelming number of decisions. We built a strong relationship with her, and we are immensely grateful for the trust she placed in our team.

For this project, we transformed the top floor of a Park Slope brownstone into a modern, lightfilled
home tailored to the needs of a busy couple. The original space was outdated and lacked
cohesion, so our design focused on creating a harmonious and functional layout that reflects the
clients’ lifestyle while introducing moments of drama and creativity.
At the heart of the penthouse is an open-concept dining room, living room, and kitchen. The
living room accommodates multiple areas, including a cozy seating nook illuminated by
multicolored glass pendant lights. A dramatic custom-built feature spans the entire length of the
living room, integrating storage, display areas, and a unique guardwall that separates the
staircase to the couple's rooftop garden from the living space. This built-in showcases a dynamic
geometric design, with select sections backed in soft mauve for depth and visual interest. Along
the front of the space, a bespoke oak window seat with modern slatted wood fronts conceals the
AC and radiators while providing ample storage. The main seating area centers around a creamy
marble fireplace surround, a refined focal point in the living area. Wide-plank oak flooring
extends throughout the apartment and up the staircase, where a minimal aesthetic enhances the
clean, modern feel.
The kitchen continues the theme of modern sophistication with a palette of soft white lacquered
lower cabinets and oak upper cabinetry. The countertops and backsplash are crafted from a
striking quartzite in cream, peach, and mauve tones, adding a subtle vibrancy to the space. A
cream-enameled range takes center stage, complemented by a hidden coffee station and a
dedicated cabinet for AV supplies, ensuring a clutter-free aesthetic.
The hall guest bathroom is a playful yet refined mix of materials and textures. Peach-toned
concrete tiles cover the walls, while the floor features cream zellige tiles. Brass fixtures, a brass
mirror, and a brass wall sconce lend a touch of warmth and luxury, harmonizing with the custom
pecan-veneered vanity and custom concrete sink,
The primary bedroom suite is a serene retreat, painted in a rich, deep blue that sets a calming
tone. Accessed through a bespoke millwork closet, the ensuite bathroom is a small yet striking
space, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship. The rear wall of the shower is clad in floor-toceiling
slabs of light blue quartzite, creating a dramatic focal point visible from the bedroom.
This quartzite extends seamlessly to form a sculptural bench within the shower, which transitions
outward into a custom sink. Beneath the sink, two wood drawers provide discreet storage. The
remaining walls are finished in soft beige Moroccan tadelakt plaster, adding a warm contrast to
the cool tones of the quartzite.
This Park Slope penthouse is a carefully curated blend of modern elegance and thoughtful
functionality, with bespoke details and rich materiality that celebrate both the character of the
space and the needs of its owners.

Location of Project: Delmar, NY
Type of Project: Kitchen
Style of Project: Modern
Cabinetry: Brookhaven (Wood-Mode)
Wood: Maple (Perimeter) and Rift Cut Veneer (Island)
Finishes: Nordic White (Perimeter) and Matte Eclipse (Island)
Door: Vista
Countertop: Cambria-Annica
Other Design Elements:
• Tall cabinet wall with separate refrigerator and freezer and cabinets to the ceiling for ample storage
• Taller than standard base cabinets (38” rather than 36”)
• Mix of dark rift cut veneer and white slab cabinets
• Oversize island for entertaining and family dinners with four children
• Full height doors for a clean aesthetic
Project Year: 2017-2018
Designed for a family with four children, this kitchen required tons of practicality, including a massive island with plenty of comfortable seating. But function certainly did not trump form in the final product. Our client is European and wanted a sleek, modern aesthetic. Working with taller than standard bases, full height doors and a handsome mix of dark rift cut veneer and white slab doors on the perimeter, the end result is a striking statement that manages to be clean and tailored without lacking warmth and soul.

This project centered on helping a wonderful client and her equally fantastic dog transform her condo into a space that truly reflected her style and simplified her life. Eager to create a home that was both beautiful and functional, she envisioned a haven in the heart of the city.
Before: Feeling Disconnected
Before the renovation, our client felt disconnected from her condo. The builder-grade kitchen was a constant source of frustration, with an awkward peninsula that hindered the flow of the space. The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality. The foyer and laundry areas were cramped and lacked organization, while the mismatched hardwood flooring only added to the disjointed atmosphere. As for the bathrooms, they felt frozen in time, desperately needing an update.
Worries and Concerns
Like many homeowners, our client had heard her fair share of renovation horror stories—tales of projects gone awry and the frustrations of managing multiple contractors. She was understandably cautious and needed a trustworthy, experienced team she could rely on to handle the project with care and expertise.
The Solution: A Personalized Transformation
We took the time to listen carefully to our client’s needs and concerns and developed a tailored plan to address each of her pain points. For the kitchen, we preserved the existing layout but reimagined the space entirely. The awkward peninsula was redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide much-needed storage and counter space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-outs, shelving, concealed drawers in the toe kicks, and an appliance garage, were incorporated. The kitchen now boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with light wood-tone lower cabinetry, off-white upper cabinets, and brushed nickel hardware that ties it all together.
The laundry room, once cramped and chaotic, was transformed into an organized, efficient space. We added custom cabinetry with pull-outs for hanging clothes, open storage above, a laundry sink, and a spacious counter for folding—no more piles of laundry!
Both the en-suite and shared bathrooms underwent complete renovations. Custom cabinetry was installed, including a floor-to-ceiling linen closet, and light grey and brown-toned tiles were selected, with contrasting hexagonal tiles for the shower floor. A heated flooring system was added for luxury and comfort year-round.
The mismatched flooring throughout the condo was replaced with cohesive vinyl and porcelain tiles, creating a seamless, modern aesthetic throughout the space.
Overcoming Challenges
As with any renovation, there were challenges to navigate. One of the key obstacles was managing the condo board’s renovation rules and policies while coordinating the delivery schedules for finishes and fixtures, especially during the busy holiday season. With careful planning, we ensured the project stayed on track. Additionally, we encountered a height variation between the tile and vinyl flooring. To resolve this, we used self-leveling material under the vinyl, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between the two flooring types.
The Grand Reveal: A Dream Come True
The final result is simply stunning. The kitchen is now a chef’s dream, with custom-built cabinets, smooth quartz countertops, and a matching stone backsplash. Brushed nickel and stainless steel plumbing fixtures, elegant cabinet hardware, and LED lighting under the upper cabinets add the perfect finishing touches. Custom organizers in the foyer and laundry closets provide ample storage and keep everything neatly in place. The bathrooms have been transformed into spa-like retreats, with beautiful porcelain tiles and custom cabinetry. The new vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas and bedroom unifies the space, creating a cohesive and modern atmosphere.
Life Transformed
Our client’s life has been completely transformed. As a passionate cook, she now relishes spending time in her beautiful and functional kitchen. The single-bowl sink makes cleanup a breeze, and the thoughtfully designed storage solutions have brought a sense of calm and order to her home. The refreshed flooring and neutral paint palette have created a relaxing, comfortable environment she truly loves.
A Memorable Journey
This project was more than just a renovation—it was a collaboration. Our client valued our guidance throughout the design process, particularly when faced with the overwhelming number of decisions. We built a strong relationship with her, and we are immensely grateful for the trust she placed in our team.

The existing kitchen was not only outdated but also lacked function and felt uninviting. This kitchen got a beautiful transformation by refacing all the cabinets with a beautiful white satin shaker and topped with an elegant white quartz. Over the hood microwave was removed and a new modern vented hood was installed. A microwave drawer was incorporated into one of the cabinets to avoid taking any counter space. A few simple touches like the white glass tiles; waterfall edge for the island and under cabinet lighting transformed this kitchen to a new level. We also installed pullouts for ample and effective storage and also added trash pullout for easy access. A bar area with a wine cooler was also added to give the homeowners the added function to entertain family and friends. The old wood flooring was replaced with luxury vinyl throughout the kitchen and adjoining living spaces which made the space look larger, open and inviting.

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.

This remodel was one worth waiting for! Clients had a need for more storage, more counter and more room for entertaining friends and family. They love color and low maintenance materials so we went with a lovely happy green cabinet color, quartz counters, fun large hex porcelain floor tile and easy to clean backsplash. The original kitchen was lacking good flow, ample storage for this family.
We started in the laundry room but re configuring the layout so now the W/D and fridge could be on one wall which opened up space for a drop area. We removed the old small closet that was the pantry and replaced the old water heater with a tank-less one to allow more place where they needed it the most. Drop area has outlets for charging and one in the broom cabinet as well. We removed the door to allow for us to relocate the garage entry door which now sits in the mud room instead of right in the middle of the kitchen. We added an actual walk in pantry which is equipped with drawers and plenty of shelf storage, we put the small appliances in here to allow for more counter space in the kitchen. To access the kitchen is now through a pocket door which is a big space saver and allows a more open feel.
Let's get to this kitchen design! This was a odd layout before, now we have the fridge tucked away in it's proper home instead of sticking out. We relocated the garage entry door to the mud room to allow for this 36" range in its place featuring a pot filler as well. To maximize the kitchen footprint we closed up the door that went to the office and now we have a full L corner with plenty of storage and added some wood shelves for a sense of warmth and displace space in a beverage bar area, which also features an under-counter beverage fridge. Under-cabinet lighting, island fixture , a pendant above the sink and relocated the recessed lights to work better with the new kitchen layout. The island was a new addition which replaced the peninsula that used to cut off the kitchen from the rest of the home. We also removed a built in bookshelf and relocated the return air to the ceiling to free up even more floor space to truly transform this kitchen into the heart of the home.

The client came to us wanting a more functional and visually appealing kitchen without changing the footprint of this 500 square foot condo in Queen Anne. They were frustrated by the lack of efficient storage, the outdated finishes, and a layout that didn’t make the best use of the narrow galley-like space. They also wanted to keep their favorite kitchen tools accessible without cluttering the countertops, and looked to us for a solution that felt brighter and more contemporary.
To meet their needs, we reimagined the space with custom cabinetry that goes all the way to the ceiling, providing ample storage, including a hidden spice rack. Heated tile floors were added for both comfort and luxury, and the layout was optimized to make every inch count. We brightened the kitchen with a fresh neutral toned palette and wall-mounted pot racks offered stylish storage solutions that keep essentials close at hand. The result is a highly functional space that feels, larger, updated, and more inviting. This kitchen is part of a larger remodel we did for this client which included the bathroom, sleeping, and living spaces.

This expansive first floor takes luxury to the next level. A once dreary and dark kitchen, lacking in function, takes on a new look. Natural light floods through the kitchen with wall-to-wall windows, highlighting the gorgeous wood texture from the rift sawn white oak and walnut inset cabinets. A french La Corneau range provides a beautiful focal point, paired with layered designer lighting and various stones.
A host’s dream space for entertaining with a hidden pantry, fully stocked with a chefs sink, dishwasher, and wall oven with ample storage for dry goods and small appliances.
A morning brew or 5'oclock cocktail can be found in the fully loaded wet bar stocked with an integrated espresso maker, ice maker, refrigerator, freezer, wine cooler, and spirits collected from traveling the globe. Cheers!
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