OVERVIEW

The most important factor in planning this kitchen remodel was to create a two-person functional kitchen while maintaining an interactive environment where family and friends can relax and the cook(s) can be part of the conversation. The original kitchen didn’t have enough space for one person to cook while another washed dishes, and the limited counter space made for very tight quarters while preparing meals.  The owner’s dream was to have a functional kitchen while simultaneously being able to entertain. 

FUNCTIONALITY

The wall that housed the refrigerator, oven and microwave was removed to open the kitchen up and make it more accessible from the adjoining family room.  Removing this wall lightened the long, dark hallway and added space to the now large kitchen/family room area.  A large island was situated in place of the wall, and a prep sink with a garbage disposal was placed at the corner of the island closest to the cooktop and refrigerator.  The minimum 48” clearance around the entire island makes it easy to move about the kitchen and allows it to accommodate more than one person at a time.  

The new placement of the refrigerator divides the kitchen working space from the entertaining portion of the space.  A buffet was added so that the island would be available for guests to gather around, yet not be in the middle of the working portion of the kitchen.

In order to maintain the openness of the space, matching kitchen cabinetry was added at the end of the long hallway.  The cabinetry is floor to ceiling height.  The bottom portion of the cabinetry has three rollouts to act as a dry pantry, while the upper cabinetry is used for other storage.