Seattle is known for its rainy weather, tech industry, and of course, great coffee. But this week, a stunning Seattle family kitchen is stealing the spotlight. This kitchen remodel centers around a massive island that serves as the anchor for the light-filled, open concept space. With high-end finishes, clever storage solutions, and a seamless indoor/outdoor flow, this kitchen proves Pacific Northwest style is anything but dreary. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this space so special.
An Island Oasis
The showstopper of this Seattle kitchen remodel is undoubtedly the expansive central island. Spanning over 10 feet long and 5 feet wide, it provides ample prep space, storage, and seating. The island pairs a white quartz countertop with a striking navy blue base cabinet. Brass accents on the hardware and fixtures add a touch of warmth.
Open shelving built into the end of the island provides a spot to display pretty cookware and glassware. The island also houses a deep sink and high-end Dornbracht faucet. But the built-in seating is perhaps the best feature. With room for four counter stools, the island becomes a casual dining spot or homework command central. It seamlessly brings this kitchen together as a multi-functional family hub.
Clever Storage Solutions
Built-in cabinetry and shelving ensure every inch of this kitchen is optimized for storage. The island lower cabinets provide concealed storage to tuck away large pots and pans. While open shelving creates a place to neatly stack everyday dishes.
The perimeter of the kitchen also packs in storage options. A walk-in pantry is concealed behind a beautiful barn door and fully equipped with adjustable shelving. The base cabinets and drawers organize cooking tools, bakeware, and more.
The upper cabinets extend to the ceiling, utilizing the entire wall space. Glass door cabinets allow you to display special pieces while concealing more common items. Pull-out shelves in base cabinets and customized drawers with dividers maximize the functionality.
This kitchen features clever solutions like a built-in charging station, cleaning tool organizers, and even hidden trash/recycling bins. The little organizational details help make time spent cooking and cleaning more enjoyable.
A Focus on Natural Light
One of the homeowners’ priorities was bringing more light into the previously dark and dated kitchen space. To achieve this goal, one entire wall was opened up into windows and French doors. Not only does this flood the room with natural light, but it also opens the kitchen to the outdoors.
The windows and glass doors fill this kitchen with views of the Seattle greenery outside. The exterior stone wall of the home was even extended indoors to visually connect interior and exterior seamlessly. On a sunny day, you can open the doors wide to get fresh air as you cook.
To further enhance the light, reflective surfaces were used throughout the kitchen. The quartz countertops have a bright white marbling that brightens up the space. The white perimeter cabinets also help reflect and distribute ambient lighting. Glass cabinet doors also allow light to pass through unobstructed.
By focusing on lighting and views, this kitchen avoids a cramped, dark feeling. The space feels open, airy, and tranquil.
High-End Finishes & Timeless Style
This kitchen remodel invested in high-end finishes and appliances that make cooking feel like a luxurious experience. The waterfall white quartz island counter is both stunning and functional. Quartz was chosen for its durability, ease of maintenance, and clean appearance.
Top appliances like the Wolf range, SubZero refrigerator, and Bosch dishwasher offer sleek style and professional performance. The Dornbracht faucet provides a chef-worthy pot filler. Smaller touches like the undermount sink, matte brass fixtures, and soft-close drawers demonstrate thoughtfulness and quality.
While certainly high-end, the finishes and styling achieve a timeless look. Crisp whites, contrasting blues, warm brass, and natural wood tones strike a balance between classic and contemporary. The design nods to Pacific Northwest style but with broader appeal. This kitchen will retain its elegance for years to come.
Achieving an Indoor/Outdoor Flow
Seattle’s mild climate allows residents to enjoy being outside more months of the year. This kitchen remodel helps you capitalize on the area’s natural beauty by erasing boundaries between indoor and outdoor. The aforementioned wall of windows and doors directly connects the kitchen’s interior workspace to the exterior patio space.
The exterior stone wall flows right into the interior backsplash, creating visual continuity. The warmth of the wood island base and shelving bring organic nature indoors. The outdoors is meant to be an extension of the kitchen rather than a separate space.
When the weather allows, the doors can be thrown open to create an open-concept kitchen and dining area. Al fresco meals become seamless. A built-in barbeque station just off the patio makes summer dinners easy. Whether planning a casual family meal or a sophisticated dinner party, the indoor/outdoor flow provides flexibility.
Key Takeaways
This Seattle family kitchen makes a strong case for Pacific Northwest design being fresh and inviting. A few key features really make this space stand out:
- The expansive central island acts as a functional centerpiece and gathering place. Storage, seating, and prep space allow it to multitask.
- Clever storage solutions like a walk-in pantry, deep drawers, and open shelving maximize usable space.
- Windows, glass doors, and reflective surfaces flood the kitchen with natural light. Dark and cramped are not words that come to mind here.
- High-end appliances and finishes elevate the kitchen’s look and performance without sacrificing long-term style.
- Indoors and outdoors blend together thanks to the continuity of materials and unobstructed views. The patio feels like an extension of the kitchen.
This kitchen certainly takes center stage this week for its functionality, high-end finishes, and connection to the outdoors. Bravo to the Seattle homeowners and designers who achieved this light-filled, family-friendly, and visually cohesive space. It offers endless inspiration for those considering a Pacific Northwest kitchen remodel. Be sure to comment below on your favorite features of this gorgeous kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle Family Kitchen Remodels
Kitchen remodels are a major undertaking, especially for busy families. If you’re considering a kitchen remodel in the Seattle area, chances are you have lots of questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about family kitchen remodels in Seattle.
What are some common goals for a Seattle family kitchen remodel?
Seattle families often remodel their kitchens with goals like:
- Creating an open, modern layout
- Increasing storage and counter space
- Improving visibility and natural light
- Upgrading appliances and fixtures
- Connecting the kitchen to outdoor space
- Ensuring kid-friendly, durable finishes
- Adding multifunctional island seating
The overall aim is to create a functional, low-maintenance, family-friendly kitchen tailored to Pacific Northwest lifestyles.
How much does a major Seattle kitchen remodel cost?
A major kitchen overhaul involving layout changes, new cabinetry/countertops, top appliances, etc. typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000+. Factors like size, materials, and custom work impact costs. Expect to invest at least $35,000 for a smaller project focusing on surfaces and appliances.
What are some key kitchen layout considerations for Seattle families?
- Optimize workflow by grouping cooking zones. Place the refrigerator, stove, and prep areas in a triangle.
- Allow space for a big island with seating and storage. This becomes a daily hangout spot.
- Ensure room for multiple cooks. Allow for circulation and openness.
- Incorporate kid-friendly zones for homework, snacking, or playing.
- Connect the kitchen to a dining area, living room, and outdoor space if possible. Openness improves flow.
What are popular kitchen cabinetry styles in Seattle?
- Shaker style cabinets for a timeless look
- Slab cabinet fronts for a streamlined, contemporary vibe
- White perimeter cabinetry to maximize light and feel airy
- Mix of open and closed cabinetry to blend display and concealed storage
- Soft-close drawers and pull out shelves for accessibility
Many also opt for a mix of painted and wood cabinetry tones to add warmth.
What kitchen countertop materials work well for Seattle families?
Quartz and quartzite are ideal for active families thanks to their durability, scratch resistance, and easy maintenance. Marble is beautiful but requires more maintenance. Granite is very durable but some dislike the busier patterns. Tile works for a budget-friendly option. Concrete and soapstone are other unique choices.
What are the most essential appliances for a Seattle family kitchen?
- Gas range for serious home cooks
- Built-in refrigerator with bottom freezer drawer
- Quiet, energy efficient dishwasher
- Microwave drawer or built-in microwave
- Dual fuel double oven if budget allows
- Wine fridge for fun and entertainment
Should I use a general contractor or kitchen designer for my remodel?
A kitchen designer focuses on spatial planning, cabinetry design, and material selections based on your wish list. They help perfect the aesthetics and functionality before handing things off to a contractor. A general contractor then tackles the remodel installation from start to finish. Many find hiring both to be the ideal pairing.
How can I avoid major disruptions during my kitchen remodel?
- Time the remodel to avoid key family events or holidays where you’ll heavily use your kitchen.
- Set up a temporary kitchen area with basics like a microwave, electric skillet, fridge, etc.
- Phase the remodel if possible, only doing a portion of the kitchen at a time.
- Prepare freezer meals in advance to reduce cooking needs during the remodel.
Proper planning and communication will help the remodel go smoothly and on schedule.
Conclusion
This stunning Seattle kitchen shows what’s possible for Pacific Northwest family kitchen design. Clever use of space, abundance of natural light, durable finishes, and indoor/outdoor connection make this kitchen highly functional for real family life.
While remodeling an existing kitchen has its challenges, the end result can be life-changing. Being thoughtful about layout, work triangles, storage, appliances, materials, and style will ensure your kitchen suits your family’s needs for years to come. Work with experienced local contractors and designers to bring your dream kitchen vision to fruition.
With good planning and communication, even a major remodel can happen surprisingly smoothly. Take inspiration from this Seattle kitchen to create the hub of activity, community, and togetherness your family desires. Don’t settle for dark, outdated, or poorly functioning spaces. Transform your kitchen into a sunlit sanctuary tailored to Pacific Northwest living.
