Optimizing Kitchen Organization for a Growing Family

A couple from Seattle was preparing to move to Michigan and wanted to work with a design firm local to their new home for a kitchen remodel that would meet the needs of their growing family. They were referred to KSI and began their remodel journey with me from 2,000 miles away!

Emphasizing Organization 

The client made it clear that there were several key challenges to address within the space:

• Remove the double oven in the existing kitchen to optimize available space
• Install a new hood vent above the range to add a sleek modern touch
• Reconfigure the island to better utilize the space and provide more seating to enhance the functionality and movement within the space
• Configure the cabinetry to be full height with a nice crown for more storage and a cohesive, elegant aesthetic
• Changing the countertops, backsplash, and sink to refresh and modernize the appearance

As a designer, it's my role to take the client's needs and present a beautiful and functional new vision for their space.

project rendering

Cross-Country Consultation

We initially connected through virtual meetings, which required coordination across time zones.  They seemed to have a clear vision for their kitchen.  They had specific thoughts for their configuration as they are planning to start a family in this home. They came well-prepared with layouts and color options, presenting their ideas via Zoom.

Their mood board also featured inspirational images that had soft white and blue cabinetry as well as an image of their Seattle home kitchen. That kitchen was predominantly stark white, mostly indicating they were ready for a change.

Although they had some colors in mind, they were open to exploring other options. Our conversation about color possibilities was a highlight of the process, and they were interested in my input as a designer, making the experience truly collaborative and enjoyable.

A couple of weeks into our consultations, they flew in for a weekend visit to look at the color selections in person.

The design consultation went smoothly. They were easy to work with and enthusiastic about trying something different. Initially, they had a detailed layout and a PowerPoint presentation of their desired design. However, as we moved forward, they became more flexible and open to going with the flow, trusting my expertise to bring their vision to life.

The Remodel Journey

On this project, KSI provided the design, cabinetry, countertops, appliances, hardware, sink, faucet, tile, and installation.  The client sourced the light fixture over the island.  The original flooring was the only element retained from the old kitchen!  Our install crew handled the demolition and remodeled the kitchen according to the design and specifications I provided. By coordinating all aspects of the project, we can provide a smooth and seamless white-glove remodel experience for our clients with a single point of contact and total project management.

The project came with its fair share of challenges, which we were able to successfully navigate to completion. Among the obstacles we faced was the fact that the customer was pregnant during the entirety of the process, requiring us to carefully plan and schedule the remodel around her due date. Luckily, she gave birth a couple weeks before the start date, which worked out in everyone’s favor!

At 60% completion, the customer decided to change the island size. I was able to accommodate her request, adjusting the design and expediting the new product with minimal delay.

Additionally, the grout color that was first put on was too dark and couldn’t be re-stained. However, the tile installer and I came up with a creative solution: tiling over the existing tile and regrouting. This approach worked perfectly, especially since the tile was in a nook space. Although this caused a slight delay, the final results were absolutely worth it!

Despite the hurdles, the kitchen turned out wonderfully, exceeding the expectations and needs of the customer.

This project stands out for me due to the high level of input and influence I was able to have on both the aesthetics and the layout, allowing the incorporation of finishes that were truly unique. Collaborating with a young couple who brought fresh ideas to the table made the experience more enjoyable and inspiring. 

I am proud that I was able to fulfill nearly all the customers’ original requests and ideas they had from our first consultations, while creating a space that feels new, fresh, inviting, and timeless. I also love how the design harmoniously blends various elements to create a cohesive and functional space with the combination of dark and light cabinets that provides a striking contrast.  The best part was seeing the customers’ delighted reaction to their new kitchen, knowing they absolutely loved the final result.

• Cabinetry - Merillat Masterpiece in Sylvan door style, Cherry wood in Molasses stain and Maple wood painted Warm White and Bonsai
• Perimeter backsplash: Virginia Tile- Marazzi Zellige Gesso 4x4 Square [MRZZL1144] with sterling grout and a Jolly Schluter trim in white PVC
• Bar tile: Virginia Tile- Sweet Bars 5x10 White Gloss with bright white grout