Open Kitchen Concept

Kitchens are the heart of the home,

that's what I've come to believe.

 

People want a place to gather, to create fun meals,

to entertain friends, to sit and relax with family.

 

This kitchen is the perfect place for all of that!

 

The original space was closed in and cramped, a separate room

with an awkward cooking area crowded by the dining area.

 

Objective #1: 

Take out that wall!

 

One way to get a more open feel in a kitchen is to remove the wall

between it and the living space/den on the other side of the wall.

Sometimes a support beam is needed if the wall is load-bearing.

 

 

If extensive wiring is needed, and other large changes are being made

it is easiest to remove all of the drywall and start over.

 

Above:  removed the large window and added doors to patio.

 



Adding a set of French doors to this kitchen provided a easy access

to the backyard and barbecue area. Perfect for entertaining on a larger scale!

 



 

Another fun idea:  Bench seating provides a cozy nook to

sit and read over a cup of coffee or

enjoy breakfast with the family.

Benches also provide extra storage (lift seats)

 

 

Speaking of tearing out walls:

Borrowing extra room from a garage storage room

 provided another 8' for a bonus laundry area/mud room!

 

 

Above:  BEFORE

Below:  AFTER!

 

 

Cabinets go in quickly:

 

 

Office space? CHECK

Extra storage? CHECK

 

 

In-stock cabinets (read:  affordable!!!)  got a

custom white-washed finish. The homeowners did this themselves

and saved a ton of money.

*Custom cabinets are usually the most costly part of a kitchen reno.

Save money and buy in-stock; lots of options available now at Lowes and HD

 

 

An island provides a perfect work space. Extend the space

with accent legs to provide an additional seating area.

 

Saving $ on cabinets means better appliances for you

Sweet! :)

 

 

 

 

 

 

All the beautiful details: 

recessed lighting accentuates the space; black granite countertop;

 mosaic backsplash to tie it all together

 

 

Fun contrast:  finish the island in a darker tone!

 

Below:  view from the front door/den

(goodbye, closed off kitchen!)