Some kitchens whisper “quaint charm.” Others shout “we’ve seen better days.” This one—tucked inside a classic bungalow—fell firmly in the latter category. Picture a small, boxy room with every major appliance lined up along one wall, a portable dishwasher tagging along like an awkward houseguest, and storage relegated to the opposite wall. Functional? Barely. Stylish? Not in this century.
The new homeowners, however, had bigger plans. With a growing family and multiple cooks under one roof, they dreamed of a kitchen that was open, bright, and more welcoming than the old galley-style layout. Plus, it needed to reflect their personal style, not the choices of previous owners.
Breaking Down Walls—Literally
The first step was bold: remove the wall between the kitchen and dining area. This wasn’t just a quick sledgehammer moment. It required a new LVL beam to support the second floor and additional reinforcements in the basement. Since this was an older home, the ceiling beam couldn’t be tucked neatly away, so instead, it was mirrored with a dropped header at the entrance to the family room—turning a potential design hiccup into an intentional architectural detail.
A Smarter Layout
Once the space was opened, the layout got a full rework. The range was moved to the center of a wall, flanked by generous countertop space—because every cook deserves elbow room. A large island now anchors the kitchen, complete with the sink, built-in dishwasher, and even a discreet heat vent tucked into the toe-kick. Suddenly, meal prep went from a solo act to a family affair.
A counter-depth refrigerator was flanked with purpose: a tall pantry on one side, a microwave-and-coffee station on the other. (Yes, the coffee station was on the homeowner’s “wish list”—priorities well placed.) This zoning created distinct work areas, so no one has to fight for counter space mid-recipe.
Blue Notes, Not a Blue Room
The family loved blue but wanted accents, not a smurf invasion. The solution: crisp white cabinetry paired with just the right amount of navy. A bold backsplash at the range makes a statement, while the island’s soft blue base ties the palette together. Overhead, decorative lights with blue shades add a playful nod to the color scheme without overpowering the room.
A traditional stainless steel range hood and a double oven complete the hardworking kitchen, giving the family plenty of firepower in a modest footprint.
Character in the Details
Storage was upgraded with a tall pantry for canned goods and snacks, wide drawers for easy access, and thoughtfully placed cabinetry. The maple floors were matched as closely as possible—thanks to reclaimed maple from a local bowling alley, which adds both warmth and a great story for dinner guests.
Meanwhile, structural upgrades were just as important. The original balloon framing around the window didn’t meet code, so the headers and king studs were reinforced to bring everything up to standard. Reworking the walls also opened up the staircase to the second floor, adding more light and flow.
From Cramped to Classic
The transformation turned a cramped, closed-off kitchen into a bright, functional hub for a family that loves to cook together. With room to move, space to prep, and a design that reflects their taste, the homeowners now have a kitchen that’s both timeless and tailored. The portable dishwasher? Retired with honors.
