What started as unexpected tree damage quickly became an opportunity to reimagine this Leawood home.
After a major storm caused significant roof and structural damage, these homeowners reached out for repairs. However, as the project unfolded, it became clear: this was more than a restoration. What could have been a setback became a turning point, proof that the right plan can turn life’s “lemons” into something far more intentional.
And while the finished kitchen and porch look incredible today… what you don’t see is the planning and process that made everything predictable from day one.
Table of Contents
Before the Remodel: Assessing the Damage and Opportunity (the Lemons)
Initially, the scope was straightforward—repair the roof and address structural damage from the fallen tree.
Roof damage from fallen tree during storm
Roof damage from fallen tree during storm
Drywall cracking and crown damage from structural issues due to fallen tree
Drywall cracking from structural issues due to tree damage
At the same time, the homeowners had long wanted:
- A covered porch addition
- Better kitchen flow/storage
Existing kitchen
Existing mudroom and garage entry
So instead of simply restoring what was there, we helped them take the next step forward.
Design Vision & Planning: Why This Layout Works
Rather than patching the existing layout, we rethought how the home functioned day-to-day. This meant floor plan changes.
Existing Floor Plan with Demo Marks
What We Changed (and Why)
- Relocated the garage entry to reduce congestion in the kitchen
- Created a dedicated mudroom drop zone in this area that also connected to the new porch addition
- Added a butler’s pantry for functional storage and prep space
These decisions weren’t random; they were intentional solutions to everyday frustrations. This is part of our design done right brand promise! Being intentional in the design phase before construction even begins save time and headache for clients and our team.
New Floor Plans
Elevations
Elevations help clients understand what their new space will look like from eye-level as if you were standing in the space looking right at it. These drawings also help our production crew during the construction phase.
Seeing the existing elevations right above the new elevations really help drive home what the finished space will look like.
Also in the design phase, our architecture team comes up with a variety of 3D renderings to help clients visualize the space. We provided the clients with several options. Our clients decided they want the space to be fully enclosed with screens and that they liked a stained slatted ceiling. This phase also helped our clients nail down what window frame color they liked.
Option A
Option B
No Surprises Starts Here
Before construction began, the homeowners could clearly see:
- Layout plans
- Design selections
- Scope of work
- Budget expectations
That upfront clarity is what keeps our projects running smoothly later. Read more about our 3-step design-build remodeling process here.
Demo Phase: Clearing the Way
Once plans were finalized, we moved into demolition.
First, we demoed areas necessary for the new layout, including:
- The old garage entry configuration with the existing mudroom built-ins
- removal of the existing cabinetry and counters, to be reinstalled later
- The hardwoods from the main floor
Then, we removed damaged materials from the storm:
- Compromised drywall
- Damaged framing
- Sections of the roof
This phase is always about setting a clean foundation and doing it safely and efficiently.
Framing, Electrical & Structural Repairs
Next came the structural rebuild. During this phase between demo and framing it's important to keep things dry and secure overnight.
We began by:
- Repairing roof framing
- Reinforcing structural components
- Framing new walls for the updated layout
Framing for new hip wall for structural support
Framing for new hip wall for structural support
We also had to excavate existing backyard and patio in areas to prep for the footings, foundation, and flatwork.
Excavation in backyard
Excavation in backyard
We then prepped to pour the stem support walls for the porch addition.
Then we could pour the slab for the porch to go on.
Next came framing for the new mudroom and porch addition!
At the same time, we started to complete electrical rough-ins to support:
- The new porch addition
- Kitchen updates
- Butler’s pantry functionality
Insulation & Drywall: Bringing the Space Together
With framing complete, we moved into insulation and drywall.
This is the phase where the project starts to feel like a home again.
- Insulation improves comfort and efficiency
- Drywall smooths over structural work
- Rooms begin to take their final shape
After a few weeks of behind-the-scenes work, the transformation becomes visible.
Finishing Touches
To complete the porch, we installed:
- Tile flooring
- Paint and stain finishes
- A fireplace feature for year-round use
The result is a space that feels both comfortable and intentional. Our team did a great job blending the new sections with the existing home. Fresh siding and paint helped the exterior feel totally cohesive.
Kitchen & Butler’s Pantry: Function Meets Style
While structural work was underway, we also focused on transforming the kitchen.
Butler’s Pantry Addition
The former mudroom entry became a fully functional butler’s pantry, featuring:
- Custom cabinetry
- Built-in storage
- New countertops
This addition gives the homeowners valuable prep space and keeps the main kitchen clutter-free.
Kitchen Refresh
To tie everything together, we:
- Replaced the backsplash to match the existing island countertops
- Installed all new flooring and reinstalled all the existing cabinetry and island countertop
The result is a kitchen that not only looks better but works better.
Final Result: A Home Reimagined (the Lemonade!)
What began as storm damage turned into a complete transformation.
Now, this Leawood home features:
- A functional, open kitchen layout
- A beautiful and practical butler’s pantry
- A seamless mudroom and garage entry
- A stunning porch addition with a fireplace
And most importantly—it works better for everyday life.
To make the space even more meaningful, the new porch features a custom coffee table crafted from the very tree that caused the original damage. What started as an unexpected setback is now a daily reminder of how something challenging can be transformed into something beautiful.
In fact, throughout the remodel, the homeowners often said, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”, and this space is a perfect reflection of that mindset!
The exterior blends perfectly with the existing parts of the home and backyard landscaping. The space really feels like it was always there which is always the goal with an addition.
The space is the perfect blend of indoor-outdoor living that our clients were looking for.
The new floor plan gave our clients a larger mudroom drop zone that’s intentionally set off the main kitchen pathway.
By relocating the garage entry, this space now sits just outside the busiest part of the home, which significantly reduces congestion in the kitchen.
At the same time, it still functions exactly where it’s needed, creating a seamless connection between the garage, kitchen, while also providing direct access to the new porch.
The result is a layout that feels more organized, more efficient, and much easier to navigate day to day.
Garage entrance into mudroom.
The kitchen refresh and butler's pantry addition turned out fabulous. The full height slab backsplash makes the space feel elevated and more glam.
The butler's pantry adds plenty of extra storage for serving ware and hosting items along with extra pantry storage.
This space works well with the adjacent kitchen, complementing the existing cabinetry, counters, and finishes so that nothing feels out of place. While it adds a touch of drama and moodiness, it still feels cohesive with what wasn’t changed in the kitchen, a true testament to intentional design, where every detail is considered to create a harmonious and functional home. This is why our process and design selections being made ahead of time is so important!
Our clients love how the finished spaces turned out, and so do we!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did this remodel take?
Timelines vary depending on scope, but projects like this typically take several months, up to a year from planning through completion.
Did the storm damage delay the project?
No, because we addressed structural repairs early and built them into the overall plan.
Can I remodel while repairing damage?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s often the best time to upgrade layout and functionality.
How do you prevent budget surprises?
We focus on detailed planning, transparent estimates, and ongoing communication throughout the project.
What is Buildertrend and how does it help?
Buildertrend is our project management system that gives clients real-time access to schedules, updates, and communication! It's where our team documents everything they work on with photos and notes to help everyone stay on the same page throughout the project.
Feeling inspired to remodel your own home? Contact us and our team of talented designers and craftspeople are ready to bring your vision to life.
Check out other finished projects in our galleries here.