When I first met with these homeowners, they were in the middle of a stressful situation – a dishwasher flood had damaged several rooms on the main floor of their home, including the kitchen and two powder rooms. My goal as their designer was to help them not only restore what was lost, but reimagine their space into something even better than before.
Today’s kitchen design trends embrace the idea that less is more. We chose a simple, shaker-style door for a clean, timeless look and paired it with a deep, moody paint color that gives the space personality. To balance that simplicity, I selected oversized handles – hardware really is like jewelry for cabinetry – and this scale helps add visual weight and interest without cluttering the design.
The original kitchen had a heavy Tuscan aesthetic – ornate details, bulky cabinetry, and dark tones that made the room feel dated. To modernize the space, we replaced the over-the-range microwave with a striking, custom decorative hood. This instantly became the focal point of the kitchen. To draw the eye even more, we added an accent tile “picture frame” behind the cooktop that brings subtle color and texture to the wall.
Since the microwave was no longer above the range, we relocated it to the back of the island – a practical choice that keeps it accessible but tucked away. The result is a cleaner, more polished look that feels intentional and open.
We used quartz countertops throughout for their durability and beauty. Unlike natural stone, quartz offers a predictable pattern, resistance to scratches and stains, and zero maintenance – no sealing required. The soft sparkle in this particular pattern helps catch the light and adds a touch of elegance, keeping the kitchen bright even with darker cabinetry.
One of my favorite aspects of this kitchen is how fresh and bright it feels. We added recessed lighting and chose slimmer, more modern light fixtures to replace the previous oversized ones. The result is a space that feels open, airy, and welcoming – perfect for gathering.
We also carried the same cabinetry into the nearby coffee bar area for a seamless flow. It’s a cozy, functional zone that ties the whole space together and invites everyone to gather in one place.
Beyond the kitchen, the restoration included two powder rooms that were reimagined with distinctive personalities. In one, we introduced a soft sage green vanity paired with a vessel sink and matte black faucet for a natural, spa-like feel. The other features a bold navy vanity accented with brushed nickel hardware and a crisp white quartz top – a refined, timeless combination. Both spaces feel cohesive with the kitchen yet stand beautifully on their own, proving that even small rooms can make a big design statement.
Even though this project began as an insurance restoration, it became an opportunity to transform the home into something truly special – a kitchen that’s not only functional, but beautiful and resilient. Helping homeowners find that silver lining is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
If you’re ready to reimagine your kitchen or bath – whether you’re planning a remodel or recovering from unexpected damage – we’d love to help you create a space that feels fresh, functional, and uniquely yours!
Request a design consultation with KSI Kitchen & Bath today to get started on your own transformation.