Follow the Creation of a Dream Kitchen (Completion - 4th of 4)

Step 4: Quality shows in the details.

After a reletively quick 3 months, construction of the kitchen and adjacent family room is complete! (3 months may have felt a bit longer for the homeowners living in a construction zone. But in terms of the industry, this project was a smooth success!) And now they are free to enjoy its rewards...

Take a look at the website for a complete viewing and details photos. Below is a look at the before and after shots:

This project was very special and I am so grateful to have worked with such amazing clients!

(If you didn't get a chance to see the construction process, click here to see its development.)

Follow the Creation of a Dream Kitchen (3rd of 4)

Step 3: Living through a remodel can prove challenging for homeowners, both physically and emotionally. A designer's ability to advise and provide support during the entire process eases the pressure on the client. As a point person, I aim to provide solutions for conflicts and mitigate questions that may occur during construction. The construction process continues... It is a long and arduous process. Stripping the existing maple cabinetry and working with this species of wood to perfect the desired finish proves laborious for the painters. Maintaining a construction schedule is always a challenge. This project is no different and more time than expected is required. But ultimately, true artistry obtains the desired results.

Everything is masked and the first of finish coats are applied.

The kitchen is sealed off in an attempt to contain the fumes of the finish coats.

Once the cabinets are finally complete, the walls are painted and the rest of the finishes are installed. Granite counters are crafted with a beautifully crafted ogee edge.

Limestone floors are accented with a mosaic border surrounding an espresso finished island.

Textured glass adds interest to the detailed cabinetry.

Installation of the cast stone hood begins. Its travertine finish complements the stone floor. The soft curves and rope detailing in the hood shelf and stack reflected the details in the cabinetry and crown molding. Corbels extend to the counter and surround a stone mosaic backsplash.

The final touches are applied to the finishes: the tile is grouted; the crown of the hood is added; everything is sealed and the final trim pieces are applied.

Finally, the appliances, plumbing fixtures, lighting and electrical will be installed. Completion of construction is nearing. The homeowners eagerly anticipate moving into and enjoying their new kitchen. Look for the final photos...

Follow the Creation of a Dream Kitchen (2nd of 4)

Step 2: Communication and observation during construction are essential to ensure that the details and design intent are well coordinated. Clear, concise drawings are created and reviewed with potential contractors. Questions are handled during the bid phase. Estimates are received.

Once the contractor is selected, finishes are finalized; appliance and fixtures are ordered; construction begins! For this kitchen, everything was removed down to the studs and the subfloor was reconstructed. Mechanical, plumbing and electrical are located according to plan.

Drywall is replaced. Walls are prepared for the delivery of cabinets.

Installation of the fine, custom cabinets begins! All of the thought and detail begins to materialize. The layers are pieced together and fit like a glove.I can't begin to explain how gratifying it is to work with a client, conceptualize a space, and then watch as it transforms into their new reality.

Now, we work with the painter through a series of stain samples to determine the final result. Stay tuned...

Follow the Creation of a Dream Kitchen (1st of 4)

Step 1: Smart planning is the first key step in developing a successful kitchen.

An effective plan promotes increased organization and efficiency. After my initial meeting with a client, I get to work developing layout options that meet their goals and desires. Here, I follow

my redesign and renovation process for a client's kitchen.

BEFORE PHOTOS:

Space Challenges:

• Insufficient work, storage, clean-up, cooking and refrigeration space
• Circulation congestion
• No focal point
• Inadequate narrow center island

Client Desires:

• Upgrade appliances, including a larger refrigerator and range
• Update finishes
• Maintain a breakfast bar that faces adjacent family room
• Make it more suitable for two cooks and entertaining
• Coordinate finishes with existing family room and bar cabinetry

With this kitchen, the challenge was to provide the clients' wishes while maintaining the basic footprint. It is actually small relative to the size of the house it serves. I set out to maximize the space. After receiving comments on the preliminary sketches, a basic floor plan was developed. Elevations were then produced. Finally, to help the client visualize the design concept, I rendered the floor plan and a few key elevations.
My Suggestions:

• Create a focal point on the wall facing the family room
• Develop efficient work zones
• Connect the kitchen circulation to the family room on two sides
• Open the visual connection between kitchen and family room
• Eliminate obtrusive, inefficient walk-in pantry
• Create visual interest through planar variation, contrasting finishes and lighting
• Upgrade cabinet and finish style and details
• Refinish existing cabinets and trim in family room and bar

The client's ability to make decisive choices led to minimal changes while developing the layout and helped expedite the design process. Next step... design documents and contractor selection.