The kitchen, dining, and living area in this Olathe home faced many common issues found in homes with an outdated, late 80s interior. The finishes were uninspiring and the layout needed some improvements. These clients were ready for change and desired a more open and functional space that aligned with their aesthetic while incorporating more natural elements.
A Kitchen, Dining, and Family Space Ready for Change
The kitchen’s cabinetry was overly ornate and featured above-cabinet space that embodied a bygone era of wasted vertical space. The laminate countertops needed an upgrade. The layout failed to make efficient use of the available square footage. The corner sink occupied too much counter space, and despite having two windows, the poorly positioned cabinets blocked valuable natural light. The adjacent dining area also had a significant issue: the exterior swing door made it difficult to navigate around the dining table.
In the family room, our clients wanted to remove the faux beams that made the ceiling feel too low and the space feel too enclosed. The fireplace also needed a makeover if it was going to fit in with the new kitchen and dining space. The stone tile hearth and surround facing and ornate mantel and legs made the fireplace bulky and imposing.
Planning the New Kitchen
The kitchen layout remained largely unchanged, but we relocated some appliances to alleviate the imposing presence of the refrigerator, create a beverage center and space for the microwave, and to reclaim some counter space. We installed new windows above the new sink location to enhance the natural light. We also expanded the island to accommodate an additional seat and supply more work surface. To address the traffic issue in the dining area, our clients opted for a sliding door, eliminating the swing of the old door. In the family room, we installed a lower-profile electric fireplace and removed the window to the right of it to create more symmetry and usable space.
BEFORE
AFTER
RENDERINGS
An Olathe Kitchen Transformed
Viola! The new kitchen, dining, and family room boasts a craftsman style, with an emphasis on natural materials with contemporary accents. The updated layout includes organized stations for easy everyday use, with perimeter cabinetry in a natural finish of stain-grade poplar. The clients’ love for fun and unexpected colors is reflected in the new green island, which ties the space to the rest of the home. A counter-to-ceiling polished tile backsplash adds texture, while a newly positioned window brightens the room. We kept the original oak flooring, but gave it a much needed resurfacing. All new and more cohesive appliances were installed. Matte black plumbing fixtures and hardware provide an additional touch of contemporary style.
With the faux beams removed from the ceiling, the family room feels more open and spacious. The fireplace now lets its natural materials do the talking. The new gas insert has a subtler and more elegant presence set in to the new resolute stone facade of the fireplace. The minimal floating mantel is all the ornament this new fireplace needs.
In addition to the kitchen, dining, and living area, our clients tasked us with updating their stairwell. We refinished the stairs with hardwood endcaps and installed new carpet. The space now boasts a new oak handrail and newel posts, wrought iron balustrade, and a contemporary chandelier.
This Olathe home’s kitchen, dining, and living area has been totally transformed and our clients are welcoming the brighter, more natural, and efficient space. Do you have a space in your home that is begging for change? Contact us to get started!