In the heart of Fairway, Kansas, this 1942 storybook home already held undeniable charm. Original character details, soft architectural lines, and a warm sense of history shaped the entire feel of the space. However, the kitchen needed a new chapter—one that honored its roots while supporting modern daily life.
For this Fairway, KS kitchen remodeling project, we focused on exactly that balance. We preserved the home’s vintage soul while introducing improved flow, elevated function, and a refined rustic European countryside-inspired aesthetic.
Led by designer Nina Schmidt, the design blends traditional sensibilities, collected vintage inspiration, and timeless materials. The result feels warm, intentional, and effortlessly lived-in.
Table of Contents
The Home & Starting Point
This 1942 Fairway home came with incredible charm from the start. However, the original kitchen layout no longer supported how our client lived day to day.
Because she cooks regularly, enjoys vintage pieces, and works from home, she needed a kitchen that felt both beautiful and highly functional for her lifestyle. The original space felt segmented, storage was limited, and the workflow didn’t fully support everyday cooking.
The flow from the kitchen to the backyard also didn't make much sense.
Exterior view of kitchen before the remodel
So, we approached this Fairway kitchen remodeling project with one clear goal: preserve the soul of the home while dramatically improving usability.
Design Vision: Honoring Vintage Character
From the beginning, the vision centered around warmth and character. The homeowner’s traditional style and love for vintage elements guided every decision. With direction from designer Nina Schmidt, the team built a concept inspired by the rustic French countryside—layered, relaxed, and timelessly charming.
We introduced:
- Deep, moody blue cabinetry for depth and richness
- Soft rustic textures to complement the home’s era
- Patterned flooring that adds charm without overpowering the space
- Warm, tactile materials that feel collected over time
Because of this approach, the kitchen feels grounded in history while still functioning beautifully for modern living.
The Plans: Reworking Layout for Flow & Function
The layout changes are where the transformation truly began.
We carefully shifted the kitchen footprint to improve circulation and expand usable counter space. In addition, we adjusted a doorway leading to the backyard, moving it slightly to allow for a longer, uninterrupted run of cabinetry.
As a result, the kitchen gained:
- A significantly improved work zone for cooking
- Expanded countertop space for prep and baking
- Better connection between appliances and storage
- A more natural, intuitive flow throughout the room
We also intentionally designed around a large stainless steel refrigerator, integrating it into the cabinetry layout so it felt cohesive rather than dominant.
Ultimately, this phase set the foundation for everything that followed.
Construction: Demo, Framing & Infrastructure
Once design decisions were finalized, we moved into construction. We began by carefully gutting the existing kitchen and opening up the space.
To support the new layout, we essentially swapped the backdoor and kitchen window locations.
During framing and rough-ins, the team:
- Reframed sections of the kitchen to support the new footprint
- Updated plumbing and electrical systems for modern appliance needs
- Prepared for improved lighting placement throughout the space
- Set up infrastructure for expanded cabinetry and storage
Step by step, the home began to shift from constrained and segmented to open and intentional.
Even at this stage, the potential of the space was already becoming clear.
Finishes Come to Life: Cabinets, Tile & Materials
As soon as cabinetry and finishes arrived, the kitchen really came to life!
Custom Crestwood cabinetry in the shade Great Lakes anchored the design and introduced a sense of understated elegance.
Meanwhile, the patterned floor tile added charm and personality, reinforcing the French countryside inspiration without feeling overly decorative.
In addition, we layered in:
- A tumbled natural stone backsplash adds rustic texture and depth
- Durable Calacatta Premata Quartz countertops designed for everyday cooking and hosting
- Thoughtfully selected hardware that balances vintage and modern influences
We also refined storage throughout the kitchen. Every cabinet, drawer, and appliance placement was designed with intention, ensuring the homeowner could cook, organize, and live in the space effortlessly.
Powder Bath Refresh
Although secondary to the kitchen, the powder bath became an important supporting detail in the overall transformation. We carried forward the same design language—warm, refined, and slightly vintage-inspired—so the home felt cohesive from room to room.
Neutral star and cross floor tile adds a subtle texture and interest without being too overwhelming while the Concretti Mustard yellow sink is the main focal point and pairs perfectly with the client's French art print.
Drywall phase
Tile and lighting
The finished powder bath!
Instead of standing alone, it blends naturally into the broader renovation story, reinforcing the feeling of a thoughtfully curated home.
The Reveal: A Fairway KS Kitchen That Feels Like Provence
Finally, time for the big reveal!
The once-compartmentalized kitchen now feels open, functional, and full of charming character!
Light moves through the space more easily. Storage works intuitively. And every finish feels intentional.
But more than anything, the atmosphere changed. The new space is cozy while still having just the right amount of edge.
It's safe to say this Fairway kitchen remodeling project achieved everything it was meant to. The kitchen now feels timeless, warm and highly functional... and like it belongs somewhere in the French countryside!
FAQ: Fairway, KS Kitchen Remodeling
What makes Fairway, KS kitchen remodeling unique?
Many homes in Fairway, especially older ones like this 1942 property, come with strong architectural character. Successful remodeling focuses on preserving that charm while improving flow, storage, and functionality.
Can you change the layout in a 1940s home kitchen?
Yes. With proper planning, we can shift layouts, move doors, and rework cabinetry runs to significantly improve how the space functions.
How do you balance modern function with vintage style?
We layer modern performance—appliances, storage, lighting—into a design that respects original architectural character and introduces timeless materials.
How long does a kitchen remodel like this take?
Timelines vary, but a full design-build kitchen remodel typically includes planning, construction, and finishing phases that are carefully sequenced for quality and efficiency.
Do you also handle smaller updates like powder baths?
Yes. As part of a full remodel or coordinated update, we often refresh secondary spaces like powder baths to ensure design continuity throughout the home.
Where can I find design inspiration for my own home remodeling project?
Check out our finished project galleries to get ideas for your own home!
Once you're ready, contact our team and we'll talk through your project goals, timeline, and vision for your home.
From there, we'll pair you with a designer who will get to know your home, lifestyle, and priorities. Your designer will guide you through planning, design, material selections, and budgeting while serving as your primary point of contact throughout the project.
One of the biggest advantages of working with a design-build remodeling firm is that everything is handled under one roof! Our architects and designers create the plans, and our craftsmen and women bring those plans to life. From the initial concept through construction and completion, you'll have a dedicated team working together to create a seamless remodeling experience!
Ready to transform your home?
Contact us, let's make your home a place you love to live in!