We turned a cramped, dark kitchen into a warm, inviting space with modern finishes.
Wayne Kitchen Transformation
The Challenge
Before
Our client in Wayne reached out to us because the kitchen in his family home of 18 years was badly in need of an upgrade.
For decades, our client and his family had been making use of the kitchen’s cramped, dark space, but its confining configuration made cooking a chore rather than a joy. In the kitchen’s existing space, a huge island jutted out right in the middle of the room, dividing the already narrow space and making the kitchen uncomfortable for more than one person to use at a time. This was a big problem for our client, who loves cooking family meals with his wife. As our client explained to us, “We need more room!” Beyond that, the cabinets and fixtures were outdated and awkwardly configured.
Before
Before
Our Approach
We began by asking our client what his dream kitchen looked like. He explained that he wanted something that felt expansive, light-filled and warm — a proper gathering space. We got to work!
Collaborating with our client, we made a series of decisions in the “Envision” stage of our process that were aimed at maximizing the existing space and reconfiguring the kitchen in a way that would allow multiple people to comfortably use the kitchen simultaneously. Our approach focused on the following:
Removal of Island: The bulky island right in the center of the kitchen had to go! In its place, we installed a formica countertop with space for bar seating, creating a gathering spot that would not encroach upon the preparation of food.
More Seamless Kitchen/Dining: We opened up the area between the kitchen and dining room to create a cohesive, continuous space. Because the dining room featured a cove ceiling, we did significant work to preserve the profile of that ceiling.
Better Kitchen Flow: The original kitchen configuration was odd and unwieldy, with the fridge and stove positioned directly across from each other in a cramped space, making the use of both cumbersome. We reimagined the kitchen as a galley-style, consolidating its appliances into a single, tidy line — further opening up the space.
Project Highlights
Proper Gathering Space
By replacing the bulky island with a clean, elevated formica countertop, we created a gathering space that wouldn’t interfere with active use of the kitchen.
Let There Be Light
By adding recessed lights and carefully selected hanging fixtures, we infused a once-dark space with a new dimension of warmth.
The Result
“I enjoyed the entire process. Gavin hooked it up. I’m blown away, and just loving my new kitchen.”
