A kitchen update was long overdue for these homeowners. For years they’d put the focus on raising their children but they now find themselves empty nesters and the time has come to put some of that focus on their home. Their dark and cramped kitchen was on the top of their list.
Pain Points
Off the bat, you’ve probably noticed the full size, 6-person dining table in the middle of the kitchen. The family gathered around that table for years and it made for cozy meals but also cramped cooking space. There wasn’t much room to have the fridge or oven open while someone was seated.
The peninsula in the kitchen not only created a narrow opening in and out of the kitchen but it also completely closed off the view from the kitchen into the family room.
The built-in microwave, as well as the appliance garage, took over some of the kitchen’s prime counter real estate. The cabinets also didn’t offer much space between the bottom of the cabinets and the counters.
Finally, the built-in desk and pantry off to the side of the kitchen were large and bulky and for the most part unused.
The New Plan
The homeowners reached out to Schloegel when they were ready to start their renovation. Ron Webster was the perfect match as not only could he lend his years of expertise but was also a friend of the family.
Ron immediately saw opportunities to make the kitchen feel more open without drastically changing the layout. The first change was to take out the double ovens and install a new 36″ gas range stove with an oven. The change created counter work space on both sides of the stove. Removing the 6-person table created room for a new island which added seating, function, and space. The island will house an Advantium convection microwave which provides an extra oven for big meals.
Perhaps the most drastic change was removing the peninsula. Without the peninsula, the kitchen opens up to the family room making both rooms feel larger and letting the natural light flow throughout the space.
Ron reconfigured the cabinets than the old ones to create plenty of space on the counter. He also moved the trash and dishwasher for a more functional kitchen. The last change in the kitchen was to take out the built-in desk and add a buffet area for storage as well as additional serving space for large dinner parties.
The Kitchen Update
The updated Express Custom Kitchen is hardly recognizable from its former self. It went from dark and cramped to light and spacious. The design selections in the kitchen combine natural elements with a touch of glamour. The natural light stained perimeter cabinets contrast perfectly with the darker stained island and buffet. The granite counters in the kitchen bring in color and dimension.
Keeping with the natural element the homeowner selected beautiful live-edge wood shelves for both the kitchen and above the buffet. Schloegel was able to install LED lighting under the shelves creating the perfect place to highlight the homeowner’s unique bowls, vases and art pieces from their travels. The white mosaic backsplash was installed from the counter to the ceiling. It both brightened up the room and brought in a bit of glamour.
Family Room Update
The family received some updates as well. The carpet was removed and new hardwood floors were laid and stained to match the kitchen’s hardwoods. The fireplace was refaced with new tile and re-stained to tie in with the island. The homeowner’s excellent taste in furnishings and beautiful artwork complete the space.
Looking to update your kitchen? Give us a call to talk to a Schloegel expert.
Ron Webster has been in the residential and commercial kitchen and bath industry since 1992. While attending JCCC he studied interior design in 1988-90 and found his niche in the kitchen & bath industry. Ron also was co-owner of his own remodeling company that renovated older homes and has many years of hands-on experience. “I bring the clients vision to life while making their experience a special one,” Ron says.