Kitchen renovations can be daunting, but with careful planning, expert design, and high-quality materials, even the loftiest kitchen dreams can become reality. This week’s featured kitchen is a perfect example of how vision, skill, and intentional choices culminated into a functional, beautiful, magazine-worthy kitchen.
The Homeowners’ Vision
When the homeowners purchased their 1919 craftsman home in a historic neighborhood, they knew the dated kitchen needed a full remodel. As avid cooks and entertainers, their top priorities were to create a spacious, light-filled kitchen with high-end appliances and lots of prep space. They wanted to honor the home’s arts and crafts style while integrating modern and industrial elements for an eclectic, unique look. The new kitchen needed to seamlessly connect to the dining room for optimal flow during gatherings. With three young kids, storage and organization were also critical.
The owners were deliberate about selecting the right team to execute their vision. They chose studio KITCHAT for their experience designing elegantly functional kitchens. The couple pored over Pinterest boards, design magazines, and KITCHAT’s portfolio to crystallize their dream kitchen’s key features:
- Abundant natural light
- Spacious work zones
- High-end stainless appliances
- Gorgeous white perimeter cabinetry
- Modern and industrial accents
- Natural stone and marble elements
- Glass cabinet fronts for display
- Lots of storage and organization features
- Butcher block island for extra prep space
- Open concept connecting kitchen to dining
With the design direction set, the collaborators got to work making this stunning kitchen a reality.
Demolition: Opening Up the Space
The existing kitchen was closed off from the dining room, with dated cabinetry and inadequate prep space. The first step was demolishing walls to open the kitchen to the dining area. This enabled clear sight lines between the rooms and maximized natural light. Removing upper cabinetry, soffits, and a peninsula increased visibility and airflow. These structural changes prepared the space for the bright, expansive design envisioned.
Installation of a Custom Range Hood
With the walls opened up, the team addressed ventilation needs by installing a statement-making custom hood over the range. Stainless steel was chosen for its durability and industrial aesthetic. The 42-inch hood provides powerful ventilation while becoming a focal point in the new kitchen. Its commanding presence grounds the space and speaks to the homeowners’ affinity for sleek, modern elements.
Perimeter Cabinetry Selection
For the perimeter cabinets, the team selected frameless European-style cabinetry in a crisp white finish. White cabinetry contributes to the light and airy vibe the clients desired while providing a refined, neutral backdrop. The modular cabinetry maximizes every inch of available space with its versatility and custom sizing options. Choosing frameless construction streamlines the look, while soft-closing drawers and doors ensure smooth, quiet access.
Island Creation as Multi-Functional Prep Space
The spacious kitchen island acts as the heart of the room, providing ample seating, storage, and work space. It was strategically placed under a set of skylights to bathe the countertops in natural light. The base cabinets offer deep drawers for maximizing organization, while the waterfall countertop and butcher block accent expand prep and serving space. The island’s bar area invites casual dining and mingling between the kitchen and living room.
Selecting Stunning Countertops and Backsplash
For the countertops, the team chose Carrara marble for its timeless beauty. The white marble’s subtle grey veining provides interest while echoing the kitchen’s light and neutral palette. The island’s butcher block counter heightens the warmth and texture of the space. The backsplash boasts stunning slabs of polished marble in shades of grey and white. This natural stone accent aligns with the home’s arts and crafts vibe while adding organic visual interest.
Recessed Paneling for Architectural Character
To continue honoring the craftsman style, shaker-style recessed paneling was installed on one wall. The textural panels bring architectural depth and interest to the space in a classic, elegant fashion. Generous natural light spilling through the skylights beautifully showcases this special detail.
Blending Utility and Beauty with Appliance Choices
The appliances balance utility and beauty thanks to durable stainless finishes and professional-grade features. The range’s six burners, griddle, and double ovens handle the most ambitious meal preparations. The streamlined fridge provides abundant chilled storage, while the paneled dishwasher tucks discretely into the cabinetry. The stainless range hood ties the appliances together with its matching industrial metal aesthetic.
Glass Front Cabinets for Display
Glass-front upper cabinets provide airy display space to exhibit cherished serveware with pride. Lit internally, the glass fronts illuminate prized possessions while contributing to the kitchen’s light and transparent vibe. Open shelving offers additional space foricals and cookbooks, keeping frequently used items in reach.
Mixing Metals and Finishes
While stainless appliances set a modern tone, mixed metals and finishes prevent a clinical vibe. Matte black hardware, fixtures, and accents complement the stainless nicely while providing bold contrast. The dark island base grounds the space, while black pendant lighting literally elevates the room’s style. Aged brass finishes on the bridge faucet and other accents inject additional warmth.
Splurge-Worthy Final Touches
The homeowners invested in special details that elevated the kitchen’s form and function. Soft-close drawers prevent slamming and protect delicate contents. USB ports built into cabinets and the island enable device charging during prep work. The pot filler faucet makes filling large pots seamless. The waterfall island countertop and serving buffet maximize workspace and storage. No luxury detail was overlooked in making this kitchen as beautiful and user-friendly as possible.
Inspired Lighting Completes the Look
The lighting plan combines comfort and ambiance. LED undercabinet lights provide task lighting over the counters. Large skylights flood the space with natural light. The gleaming glass front cabinets also reflect sunlight beautifully. Warm overhead fixtures supplement when required, while dramatic black pendant lights distinguish the island. Together, these light sources make the kitchen glow in a welcoming, brilliant way.
With the homeowners’ vision, the designers’ expertise, and high-end materials, this heart-of-the-home kitchen went from drab to fab. The finished product marries timeless beauty, smart organization, distinct character, and functional luxury. This magazine-worthy kitchen is sure to be the envy of dinner guests for decades to come!
Frequently Asked Questions About High-End Kitchen Design
Here are answers to some common questions about creating a luxury dream kitchen like this one:
How much does a high-end kitchen remodel cost?
For a gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line materials and custom features, you can expect to invest $50,000 to $100,000+. Unique or exotic materials, extensive structural changes, and luxury finishes will land you at the higher end. Carefully prioritize must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
What design elements contribute to a luxury kitchen?
Key indicators of an upscale kitchen include professional-grade appliances like Wolf or SubZero, natural materials like marble or quartz, custom cabinetry, fresh lighting plans, furniture-like island and banquette seating, and statement accents like a pro range hood.
How do I choose the right designer for my dream kitchen?
Seek out designers known for high-end contemporary or traditional kitchens aligning with your vision. Browse their portfolio for stunning examples. Look for excellence, creativity, transparency, and clear communication. Make sure your design team listens and understands your lifestyle needs and taste.
How long does a kitchen remodel take from start to finish?
The typical timeline is 4-8 weeks for smaller face-lifts and 8-12+ weeks for full gut renovations. Make sure your designer provides a detailed project schedule. Discuss how to minimize downtime without appliances. Careful planning and phasing will help the project run smoothly.
What are the most popular kitchen layouts and work zones?
Common layouts include galley, L-shaped, U-shaped, and open concept. Maximize workflow with the sink, fridge, and stove forming a handy triangle. An island makes for additional prep space and casual dining. Microwave, coffee, and pantry stations promote multi-tasking.
What storage solutions maximize kitchen organization?
Consider pull-out shelves, custom drawers, built-in recycling bins, drawer dividers, utensil organizers, blind corner cabinets, under-cabinet rollout trays, and floor-to-ceiling pantries. Glass door cabinets neatly display dishware. Pot racks free up cabinet space.
How do I integrate my kitchen into an open floor plan?
Use an island, banquette, or counter bar to delineate the kitchen while encouraging flow. Floating shelves, room dividers, or partial walls can separate zones subtly. Match cabinetry finishes throughout for cohesion. Echo design details like lighting and flooring to bridge rooms seamlessly.
With thoughtful planning and design, you too can bring your ultimate kitchen dreams to life!
In Summary
This magnificent kitchen makeover demonstrates how the homeowners’ vision came to fruition thanks to:
- A clear design direction spotlighting natural light, high-end accents, and industrial touches
- Opening up the space by removing walls and dated elements
- Installing luxury features like a statement range hood
- Choosing sleek perimeter cabinets complemented by warm wood accents
- Crafting a functional island for extra prep and casual dining
- Using gorgeous marble and stone for counters and backsplash
- Adding special details like glass cabinets, USB ports, and a pot filler
- Beautiful lighting, mixed metals, and hardware for finishing touches
- Hiring an expert kitchen designer to tailor every decision to the owners’ needs and lifestyle
With meticulous attention to each design decision and execution, the homeowners’ dream kitchen was transformed into a welcoming space for creating memories for years to come. This kitchen offers inspiration to anyone envisioning their own perfect cooking space. With the right vision and team, you can make your dream kitchen a reality too!
