This kitchen remodeling project included both an extensive aesthetic update, as well as closing off the space's original open-concept floor plan. That's right, you read correctly - we opted for more division of space. This may seem exceptional, as until recently everyone desired to tear down their walls (literally implied of course, not emotionally). Popular HGTV home renovation shows also perhaps influenced the trend, frequently glorifying the open floor plan, particularly as applied to the kitchen. However, after over a year of staying home with everyone else at home, division of space is back in favor again. But we're getting ahead of ourselves, I'll discuss floor plan improvements further on in more detail. First, here's where we started.
the plan
The goal of this remodeling project was to make the kitchen more utilitarian and to better serve the needs of a contemporary family. The space's original configuration while functional, was not efficiently designed for multiple cooks, or even multiple family members to access simultaneously. For example, if the refrigerator's doors were opened, it blocked passage towards the appliances and both kitchen exits. Additionally, for a good size kitchen it only had one counter area for food prep, which was the peninsula island. The peninsula island, while not designed with any knee space, regularly doubled as a dining surface. (Notice the peninsula's bar-height glass table extension, added on by the homeowners to remedy the need for a casual dining area.)
the fun part... reimagining the kitchen
To improve the layout of the kitchen for maximum efficiency, we made several changes. First, a stove was installed to replace the cooktop and double ovens. This is a good idea if you don't actually use two ovens and could use more space. The pantry was then moved to where the double ovens were originally located, making dry goods more accessible while cooking. Moving the pantry also opened up extra counterspace in its original location.
Next, the refrigerator was centered to align on a central axis with the u-shaped kitchen. This allows more passage space when the refrigerator is in use and its doors are open. Those of you that took my virtual Remodeling Seminar may remember me discussing the "kitchen work triangle". Slightly moving the refrigerator in this kitchen allowed for a more efficient sink, refrigerator and stove (the three most commonly used work areas ) distance ratio, making a perfect "work triangle".
Additionally, the peninsula was widened, for more food prep space, and to accommodate a counter-height casual dining area. Underneath, a dishwasher was installed to the left of the sink. The trash bin was moved to the right of the sink. This new configuration with the dishwasher and the trash bin positioned on both sides of the sink is ideal for two reasons. First, it minimizes plumbing labor and cost. Second, it facilitates loading the dishwasher, which involves initially scraping leftovers in the trash bin, then rinsing plates in the sink.
did she say more division?
While open-concept spaces usually offer a variety of benefits, including a sense of openness, brightness and the appeal of wide vistas, for this home the benefits of closing off the kitchen tipped the scales. Situated between the family room and the dining room, the kitchen was originally designed as the "heart of the home". An awkward, wide counter space, with cabinetry underneath, served as a partial division between the kitchen and the family room. (You can see it in the background of the image above.) This unsightly dividing counter served no relevant purpose. It was not designed for seating and the large surface area very quickly became the family's dumping ground for mail, books, keys...and more.
Ultimately, closing off this space between the two rooms allowed for better sound control, more privacy and extra storage cabinetry for tableware.
aesthetics
The decision to close off this open-concept kitchen space informed all the aesthetic choices that followed. To maintain a sense of openness, every inch of space was accounted for and strategically designated.
To promote the natural light streaming in from the kitchen window and door, light-reflective materials and color palette were required. We chose a glossy cabinet finish because its reflective properties work to bounce natural light off its surface. We also decided on two-tone cabinetry, white balanced with a modern, warm gray-oak. This dual neutral scheme kept the kitchen from looking too sterile, and added visual interest.
proportion play
Containing the kitchen area also meant reevaluating its proportions. To achieve a sense of greater height and depth, the cabinet enclosed hood was replaced with a stainless hood. The new hood "crowns" the kitchen and simultaneously leads the eye back, and upwards, creating the illusion of a deeper space and greater ceiling height. To further contribute to a sense of height, the ceiling itself received a full facelift. The original lighting area was reimagined as a contemporary recessed ceiling, with added concealed strip lighting. Recessed lights were also installed throughout the kitchen for added luminosity.
The floor tiles played an individually important role. By selecting rectangle tiles and installing them to recede towards the dining room, a sense of expansion was achieved. Finally, a frosted glass door was added to separate the kitchen from the dining room, which can be used as needed while entertaining.
Did we keep anything? As with every project, I always encourage to recycle anything that can be reused. In this kitchen, we were able to repurpose the bar chairs, you'll notice they were cut to counter height.
but there's more
Dividing the open-concept space allowed us to treat the family room on the other side to a remodeling project of its own. The room also benefited from more storage, brightness and a brand new bar. Stay tuned for more on the design process for the family room and how we remodeled the bar! For a sneak peak, here are more photos of the residence.
Also, if you missed my last remodeling seminar, I'm teaching it again this fall on November 10. The UCLA Extension Architecture & Interior Design Program is offering it for free to everyone - you may sign up for it here!
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