Kitchen 244

1976 home in Annandale, VA was about to get a total face lift. Owners were fed up with the narrow walkways, middle island cook top, limited storage and dysfunctional kitchen.
Design team came to rescue. After several consultation meetings, we all agreed that the dragged looking kitchen got to go. It had to be replaced with a classic but timeless look. But more importantly the space had to be expanded. Client did not want to spend big amount of money on adding an addition. So we suggested use of about 2 ft deep from adjacent hardly used dining room.
The wall that contained closet and was shared between kitchen and dining room was moved back by about two feet. This was the middle bearing wall of the house full of duct work and plumbing. That meant placing structural support, rerouting all mechanical and plumbing to all this change.
Now all tall elements such as fridge, wide pantry and microwave/ oven cabinet were placed on this wall. The kitchen now is 15’ wide and there is lot of space to comfortable place a large island with seating in the middle of it. This created more work space and more storage space all around.
The cook top, gas line and ventilation were all relocated to east wall. This gave the cook more work space. The door to garage was relocated further down to allow longer counter space on both side of cook top.
All bulkhead and what they contained (electrical and plumbing) was eliminated. The taller and lighter cabinetry made this kitchen appears bigger and spacious.
There was an unused wall between kitchen and Family room. We brought it in the design. Added more hutch style cabinetry and counter top and beverage cooler for the husband watching the game and wants to catch a cold one.
Added lighting whether recessed, pendent, under cabinet or inside cabinet lighting contributed to better look and brightness of this kitchen.
Client no longer wanted to have a breakfast table by the bay window since they were to use the Island as primary eating area.
We have replaced the bay window with a bit bigger but shorter to allow bench seat and storage. The area was converted to conversation/seating nook. It could also be used for casual eating or having a cup of coffee white enjoying the breathtaking backyard.
Use of contrasting granite counter top has offset the light cream tone cabinetry, while cleverly complimented by stone back splash.
The extended hardwood floor made the transition of all area much more possible.
This owner wants to spend another 20 years in this house now that they have their dream kitchen.