Our clients had been dreaming of owning a home on the Lake of the Ozarks and had searched for years to find one that crossed off everything on their list. They wanted a dock over deep water, a gentle sloped lot, and something in cove away from the main channel. This house literally ticked off all those boxes. What it didn’t have, an updated interior/exterior. The home built in 1978 was nearly all original. Given this home was our client’s secondary residence budget was also top of mind; however, they still wanted a transformation that would bring their home into the modern era without sacrificing functionality or comfort. We worked with them to remodel their kitchen while being mindful of their budget.
The OG
Our focus became the kitchen and living area on the lower level of the home. The kitchen had its original dark cabinets and laminate tops. The sink, faucet, fridge, range, and dishwasher had been updated a bit more recently.
Cabinet Refresh and Layout Changes
We devised a plan to help keep costs in check. First, we decided to replace the cabinet fronts and repaint the existing boxes rather than buy all new cabinetry. This approach allowed the clients to achieve a fresh, updated look without the expense of entirely new cabinetry.
The next big move? Removing the peninsula, which opened the space and allowed for a more contemporary layout. It also made room for the large new island. This provided additional counter space and storage while creating a focal point that made the kitchen feel larger and more inviting.
We were able to re-set the range and fridge. The cabinet above the range was set high enough that we were able to add a narrow microwave. The fridge previously jutted out. We created an enclosure for the fridge and included a cabinet that was nearly flush with the fridge's depth making it much more useable.
Finally, there was quite a bit of dead space to the right of the fridge. We installed new cabinets to create a bar area. The large drawers are used for trash and recycling. This not only maximized the available space but also added a fun, functional element that the homeowners can enjoy when entertaining.
A Clean and Fresh Look
We decided to create a two-tone look in the kitchen. All the perimeter cabinets are a fresh white, while we decided to paint the island a fun blue color. It needed a little color and it is a lake home!
New countertops and a larger subway tile backsplash were selected to complement the newly painted cabinetry and add texture to the space. On the perimeter cabinets we decided to use a lightly veined quartz. The island again provided the opportunity to insert fun design. We went with this amazing Cambria Rose Bay quartz.
Flooring, Lighting, and More
The flooring throughout the main level was replaced with luxury vinyl tile (LVT), providing durability and a cohesive look that flows seamlessly from the kitchen into the surrounding living areas. It’s a great option for a lake house where water is constantly being dripped on floors.
The clients also opted for all-new light fixtures and LED can lights, brightening the space and adding a modern touch.
Finally, we replaced the old glass sliding doors and windows. The old sliding doors had lost their basic function…the ability to slide. This upgrade not only enhanced the home's aesthetic but also improved insulation and natural light, making the kitchen an even more pleasant place to cook and gather.
The Result: A Beautiful Lake House Transformation
By focusing on smart, impactful changes, we were able to completely refresh this 1970s U-shaped kitchen at Lake of the Ozarks while staying within the clients' budget. The result is a space that feels brand new, combining the charm of the original design with the functionality and style of a modern kitchen. Whether it’s cooking family meals, hosting gatherings, or just enjoying a quiet morning coffee, this updated kitchen is ready to serve its owners well for years to come.
Ready to refresh your Lake of the Ozarks home? Contact us a call to speak to a remodeling expert.