There is perhaps nothing we love more than showing you the before and after transformation of a space. We love unlocking the potential of a home, especially when the transformation is as beautiful as the kitchen remodel we’re about to share! Ready? Let’s dive in!
Before: Dated, Closed Off, and Lacking Workspace
Our homeowners came to us with a kitchen typical of homes built in the 80s. An L-shaped layout enclosed by walls with little to no counterspace left this kitchen feeling dark, dated, and cramped. (You can see the footprint of the interior walls in the photo on the right. The walls had already been removed at the time this photo was taken.) They came to us wanting to open up the room and also add some much-needed counterspace and storage.
After: Open, Light and Filled with Oh-So-Spacious!
We began the design transformation knowing that those interior walls simply had to go! However, this transformation was, in a sense, minimal when it comes to footprint changes. We decided the sink and fridge could stay, thereby eliminating any plumbing work. The most significant change came in the form of this stunning kitchen island.
To meet our homeowners’ goal of added workspace, we incorporated a large center island, built to frame the kitchen with a raised countertop on the outside and lots of room for seating and entertaining. We moved the stove location to the island, opening up counterspace along the outside. It also allowed for the inclusion of a larger gas stove and oven within the island, a far more convenient location for cooking and baking. With plenty of smartly design drawer storage, including a pull-out garbage built into the side, the resulting island is beautifully functional! But the highlight, in our opinion, is the beautiful live edge walnut countertop that runs along the raised portion of the island. Paired with a painted beadboard on the outside, it is truly a showstopper.
Want to see more photos of this project? Visit our Rustic Elegance Kitchen Remodel Project Portfolio
Of course, we simply can’t overlook the rest of the kitchen! Above the stove, a flush ceiling hood ensures an unobstructed view, and new staggered height cabinetry gives the room a taller feel. The cabinetry finish features two different shades of white, the outside cabinetry being a cooler white and the island a creamier white. Beautiful honed black granite countertops complete the look, offering a playful contrast with the countertops above and below. Finally, new LBT flooring throughout provides a consistent base to showcase it all.
A Touch of Farmhouse: Rustic Elegance
For those who love the look of farmhouse design but question whether they can pull it off in their home, this project is a wonderful example of how incorporating subtle yet distinct touches can seamlessly deliver the right feel in an ever so elegant way. The rustic touches are everywhere in this kitchen remodel, yet it never feels ‘too much.’ It is the perfect blend of rustic and elegant, from the farmhouse style lights over the island and sink to the pressed tin backsplash to the matte black cup pulls and knobs to the painted beadboard and lastly, that beautiful walnut live edge top.
Bonus Room
Finally, we can’t complete our talk about this project without touching on the delightful bonus area we designed. The homeowners had previously added on a four-season porch and requested that we bring in the cabinetry to the porch space as well. The cabinetry, which runs along one wall, can be used as a buffet and beverage station while entertaining and provides much-needed additional storage. Decorative shelving can hold wine bottles or mail, and glass front doors add a furniture-like feel. Paired with the kitchen, it was the perfect finishing touch to pull the main floor together!
Inspired? Let’s Talk!
Here at White Birch Design, our motto is ‘Love Where You Live’. Based in Lakeville, MN, we help homeowners across the Twin Cities and South Metro transform their kitchens, baths, and basements into spaces they love. We do this with honest communication, a client-focused attitude, and beautiful design. Here at White Birch Design, we aren’t a big Minnesota remodeling firm, but that’s a good thing. It means that every remodeling project we undertake means as much to us as it does to our homeowners. Ready to start dreaming about your kitchen, bath, or home remodel project? Contact us today to get the process started! We look forward to hearing from you.
