At Millwood Remodeling & Design, we pride ourselves on taking outdated spaces and transforming them into modern, functional works of art. Our recent project—a complete overhaul of a 1990s kitchen—showcased the breadth of our expertise in design, remodeling, and craftsmanship. The goal was to bring the kitchen into the 21st century with an open plan, improved functionality, and a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Opening the Space with Open-Plan Design
One of the most significant changes to this kitchen was removing the wall that separated it from the living room. Open-plan kitchens have become increasingly popular for the way they create more inviting, communal spaces, and this project was no exception. By eliminating the wall, we completely transformed the flow of the home, making it more spacious and interconnected.
Of course, opening up a space like this requires more than just knocking down a wall. We carefully coordinated the structural adjustments, ensuring that the new layout was not only visually appealing but also safe and stable. This part of the remodel presented some challenges, but our team’s experience and attention to detail ensured a seamless transformation.
Relocating Gas, Electric, and Appliances for Functionality
The reconfiguration of the kitchen layout meant that we had to relocate several utilities, including gas and electric lines. These were moved to accommodate a new kitchen island, which became the central hub of the space. The island features additional seating, providing a functional and social focal point in the kitchen.
The island also houses a gas cooktop, which is vented through a stunning stainless steel island vent hood ducted directly to the exterior. This feature not only adds to the kitchen’s modern appeal but also enhances its practicality, ensuring proper ventilation during cooking. The technical challenges of relocating gas and electrical lines were considerable, but our team handled them efficiently, ensuring everything was up to code and fully operational.
Custom Cabinetry and Granite Countertops
The cabinetry we installed for this project was chosen with both style and function in mind. The homeowners opted for White Shaker cabinets by J&K Cabinetry, which offer a timeless, clean look that pairs beautifully with the modern design of the kitchen. These cabinets were custom-installed to fit perfectly within the new layout, ensuring maximum storage and accessibility.
To complement the cabinetry, we installed custom 3cm ‘Black Pearl’ granite countertops. The sleek, dark granite offers a striking contrast to the white cabinets, creating a sophisticated and contemporary feel. These counters not only enhance the aesthetics of the kitchen but also provide a durable, easy-to-maintain surface that will last for years to come.
Enhancing Workflow with Relocated Appliances
One of the key improvements in this remodel was optimizing the workflow of the kitchen by relocating major appliances. We moved the wall oven, microwave, and refrigerator to more convenient locations, ensuring the kitchen was more user-friendly and functional. In the new layout, the homeowners can move easily between cooking, prep, and storage areas without obstruction.
In addition to this reconfiguration, we installed a long matching buffet line to the left of the oven. This extra counter and storage space added both form and function to the kitchen, providing a perfect spot for serving food or additional prep work during larger gatherings.
Porcelain Hardwood-Style Flooring
No kitchen transformation is complete without the perfect flooring. For this project, we chose a porcelain ‘hardwood’ style tile, which was extended throughout much of the home. This flooring option offers the classic look of hardwood with the added durability and water resistance of tile—ideal for both the kitchen and high-traffic areas of the house. The wood-look tiles blend seamlessly with the overall design, offering both warmth and practicality.
Overcoming Challenges, Achieving Stunning Results
This remodel presented several challenges, from relocating utilities to ensuring precise installation of custom cabinetry and countertops. However, at Millwood Remodeling & Design, we thrive on finding solutions to complex problems. Every step of the project was carefully managed, and the result is a kitchen that is not only beautiful but also perfectly suited to the homeowners’ needs. The open-plan layout, improved workflow, and modern materials have completely transformed this 1990s kitchen into a contemporary masterpiece.
Trust Millwood Remodeling & Design for Your Next Project
This project is a testament to the skill, creativity, and attention to detail that Millwood Remodeling & Design brings to every job. Whether you’re looking to update a single room or embark on a full-scale home remodel, we have the expertise to make your vision a reality. From remodeling and design to custom cabinetry, flooring, and utility relocation, we are committed to delivering exceptional results that exceed expectations.
Contact us today to start your next home improvement project!