A Transformative Kitchen Remodeling

We designed a stunning transitional kitchen for this Madison family, improving its functionality and aesthetics while maintaining the character of this classic home.

We first met Eric and Cecilia when they came to us looking for the right design-build firm to solve their home’s biggest problem: its outdated and non-functional kitchen. The couple originally hired an architect to create their ideal kitchen, but after seeing the plans, they felt they were not exactly what they wanted. They wanted a hands-on and in-depth design and construction process to do it right!

The kitchen left a lot to be desired. While it was typical for a house built near the turn of the last century, it was small, dated, and not up to modern standards. They loved entertaining and wanted a kitchen remodeling to provide them with the functionality and look they sought. With that in mind, we designed a stunning kitchen space that met their needs while maintaining the character of their classic home.

Learn how we completely transformed this non-functional space into the home’s entertainment center!

A Kitchen Remodeling Down to the Studs

Like many homes built in the early 1900s, the kitchen was small. While it was functional when the house was built, it was not up to modern standards. The room was roughly 10’ x 10’, with a door opening on every wall. Because of the layout, wall space for cabinets and appliances was limited.

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The sink and dishwasher are immediately to the right when you first walk into the kitchen. Along with the sink and dishwasher, most of the counter space has fit into a 5’ x 5’ corner. Across the room, the gas range is slid into a corner. Adjacent to that is the refrigerator, slotted between the opening to the rear entry and a window. As it sits, the kitchen is not functional.

We began by gutting the existing kitchen and tearing down a load-bearing wall between it and the playroom to increase the usable space. This effectively doubled the available space. However, because it was load-bearing, we had to install a flush LVL header and joists running in either direction to ensure an uninterrupted ceiling.

With the new space defined, we designed a stunning kitchen space that met today’s lifestyle needs while perfectly maintaining the character of this early 1900s home.

Flipping The Room

Our new design flipped the kitchen around, changing every element. The sink and dishwasher were moved across the room, and we removed two windows, reframed the wall, and installed a stunning window wall to take advantage of the view. The new window also brightened the kitchen, flooding it with natural light.

We moved the refrigerator to the adjoining wall, replacing the original sink and dishwasher. Next, we created a new custom pantry cabinet to meet the family’s needs. Eric and Cecilia wanted new appliances and replaced the old gas range with an induction cooktop and a wall oven/microwave.

Creating Flow and Interaction

We incorporated a unique design element into our kitchen. To encourage interaction between the dining room and kitchen, we designed a counter-height, arched passthrough. This feature helps blur the lines between the rooms and allows natural light from the kitchen window wall to flood into the dining room.

Eric and Cecilia also wanted a kitchen island with additional seating so guests could hang out in the kitchen for conversation and interaction while the couple is cooking. The island is painted a deep, nautical blue, recalling the vibrancy of the house when it was built.

Choosing The Right Materials and Finishes

During the design process, it became clear that one of the couple's goals for their kitchen remodeling was to create a new openness and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Keeping that thought top-of-mind, we selected a light cabinet color (wheat stain on Alderwood). It makes the cabinetry the perfect complement to the real star – the natural quartzite countertops. The natural wood tones perfectly complement the rich depth and color of the quartzite. Something only a natural stone can provide.

We faced a bit of a challenge when it came time to complete the flooring in the kitchen. We chose to continue the maple flooring in the expanded space. Because maple changes color with age, we had to source maple flooring of a similar age to match the existing floor. Luckily, we sourced the perfect match: reclaimed flooring from an old basketball court!

The Result Of This Kitchen Remodel

With its expanded floor plan, comfortable island, new cabinetry, and natural stone countertops, Eric and Cecilia’s outdated and non-functioning kitchen has been completely transformed. Now, it’s a gathering space for family and friends and the entertainment center in their home. Eric and Cecilia’s transformed, custom-designed kitchen is a space their entire family can enjoy for years.

Are you considering a kitchen remodeling project? Let us help you design the perfect space to meet your needs! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Are you ready to learn more? We are always available and happy to answer your questions.