Our clients, Courtney and Dan, are busy working parents living in Middleton, WI. They were ready to give their 2004 home a much-needed update. They approached us to update the first-floor living space, which included the kitchen, primary bathroom, mudroom, laundry, and staircase. The kitchen renovation was at the heart of their remodel. Their vision for their new kitchen was clear. They wanted a brighter, more inviting space with better lighting, a double wall oven, a step-in pantry, a dedicated coffee bar, and an extended countertop space under a large window.

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A Modern, Bright Kitchen

The homeowner’s goal for their kitchen renovation was to create a space that was functional, beautiful, and built to last. The existing kitchen was on trend in 2004. It featured black granite countertops, dark cherry cabinets, and maple floors. However, today it felt heavy, dark, and seriously dated. We started by removing all the original finishes, allowing us to start fresh. To instantly open up the space, we installed light oak LVP flooring throughout the kitchen and adjacent areas. Next, we installed custom Amish-built cabinetry in a mix of painted and stained finishes, bringing a lightness and warmth to the room without changing its footprint. We selected Silestone Ethereal Glow countertops for the perimeter and Cambria Hermitage for the island. Both countertops feature a light background with subtle, warm veining. This not only brightened the space but added an elegant contrast.

 

A Dedicated Coffee Bar

One item on the couple’s wish list was a dedicated coffee bar. The angled wall near the informal dining area was the perfect spot. This area allowed us to create a dedicated coffee bar with a small bar sink and space for coffee pots. On the opposite side of the kitchen, a wall of tall cabinetry houses both the double wall oven and a hidden step-in pantry offering seamless storage while blending perfectly with the surrounding cabinetry.

Functionality and Aesthetics

Our design incorporated plenty of storage. We included design touches like the buffet area to the left of the coffee bar. The butcherblock countertop ties into the wood cabinetry. This functional and stylish element was designed and is tailored specifically for the homeowners. The range hood is highly functional, blending both cabinetry colors, and includes an in-wall niche for spices and cooking oils. The design not only adds functionality but also serves as another eye-catching focal point. Finally, we turned our attention to the fireplace next to the wall cabinetry. Working closely with the couple, each brick was hand-selected and whitewashed, creating a soft, custom finish that unifies the kitchen with the rest of the home.

Courtney and Dan now have the bright, modern, functional kitchen that meets their goals and aesthetically fits in perfectly. The new kitchen is again the heart of the home.

 
Kitchen Remodeling Projects
 
 

Project Design

Morgan McMahon
UDCP, CRD

Design Mentor

Dave Duewel
(Retired)

Lead Carpenter

PJ Ender, CLC, CRPM
Master Lead Carpenter

 
Small details can be incredibly important. The refrigerator area is a key example. It used to be centered in the wall with awkward countertop spaces to its left and right, neither large enough to be functional. Now, a tall cabinet flanks the left of the fridge while a generous countertop is on the right. Not only is it usable, it’s also beautiful!
— Abe Degnan, Director of Design