A Small Galley Kitchen Goes from Dark and Dated to Bright and Airy

This article highlights the transformation of a previously dark and disconnected kitchen into a spacious, light, and open room, as showcased during the ASID Designer Kitchen Tour. Interior designer Kate Roos spearheaded this significant remodel, noting the dramatic increase in light and usable space. Before the renovation, the kitchen featured a cramped layout with the sink, fridge, and range confined to a single wall, offering limited counter space. The updated design now provides ample room for multiple individuals to work simultaneously. A key design element in the redesigned kitchen is the tile from Winchester Tile Co., chosen by the clients for its light-reflecting qualities. Unlike flat glazed tiles, these tiles offer a unique effect, and their square shape was installed in a classic subway tile pattern. The selection of a honed marble countertop created a visual contrast with the glossy backsplash tiles. Extensive discussions between the designer and clients led to the choice of a specific shade of gray for the cabinetry, carefully selected to be warm and bright, avoiding the coldness often associated with some gray tones. The cast bronze hardware, with its living finish, was an intuitive choice, seamlessly integrating with the home’s existing hardware. An unexpected yet impactful addition to the design was a standalone oak hutch, incorporated later in the process. Crafted from quartersawn white oak, the hutch complements the character of the original turn-of-the-century Victorian-era home. A gray stain was applied to prevent the piece from appearing too heavy within the newly brightened space. Designer Kate Roos emphasizes that her design inspiration often comes directly from client wishes and the existing elements of a home, such as colorful cookware or views from a window. For homeowners seeking to define their design style, Roos typically starts by discussing the home's architectural style, then explores how to blend that with the client's preferences without creating a discordant look. She recommends under-cabinet lighting as a single, impactful change for homeowners looking to refresh their kitchen without a full overhaul, highlighting its transformative effect on both aesthetics and functionality. Roos also advocates for incorporating cabinetry that resembles freestanding furniture, as it adds character, allows for unique details and colors, and creates a focal point. For those intimidated by hiring a professional, Roos assures that a good designer can guide clients through the decision-making process, connect them with skilled craftspeople, and help avoid costly mistakes, ensuring a timeless and functional space that aligns with the home’s architecture. The ultimate goal is to translate the client's vision into a cherished space. #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #KateRoosDesign #ASIDDesignerKitchenTour #KitchenLighting #CabinetryDesign #VictorianHome

This article highlights four regional architects who renovated five outdated kitchens in Pittsburgh, transforming them from functional spaces into designer areas. The architectural projects emphasize improved layouts, increased natural light, and enhanced aesthetics, focusing on the kitchen as the central hub of the home. Architect Mary Cerrone undertook two kitchen renovations. In Squirrel Hill, a 320-square-foot kitchen and deck addition aimed to improve the home's functional layout and views. The design incorporated durable materials such as linoleum over radiant floor heat, stainless steel, engineered stone countertops, stained maple cabinets, and porcelain tiles. A new deck connected to the kitchen expanded views and natural light. Cerrone maximized space by combining the kitchen with a small pantry, building out over the basement stair for a recessed refrigerator, and using a sliding screen door to eliminate door swings. In Upper Saint Clair, Cerrone transformed a 1,000-square-foot first-floor kitchen from a builder-style design into a streamlined, contemporary space. This involved redefining connections between the kitchen, eating area, laundry, and family room by adding windows and reorienting the kitchen workspace. The project featured end-matched walnut cabinets, aluminum and glass elements, Cambria countertops, and cork flooring. Storage was maximized by trading wall cabinet space for windows and installing an 8-foot length of full-height cabinets. The formal dining room was converted to a living room, and a generous eat-in area was created to accommodate twelve people. Fred M. Fargotstein focused on renovating a 1920s Pittsburgh home, changing its 1970s modern kitchen to a traditional style that aligned with the house's overall character. The renovation increased the kitchen size by 36 square feet by removing a servants’ stair. A colorful cast iron English import range became a focal point, featuring five commercial-style burners, two convection ovens, and a separate broiling compartment. Fargotstein improved efficiency by eliminating the problematic servants’ stair traffic pattern, creating a contiguous countertop work area, and ensuring the dishwasher did not obstruct access. A separate, fully functional work zone was incorporated in the pantry, complete with a prep sink and hot beverage station. Storage capacity was significantly increased by extending wall cabinets to the ceiling and incorporating glass doors for a sense of openness. Custom modifications included specialized storage for cookbooks and a nook for pet food bowls. Paul J. Levine revamped his own 1920s French Tudor home's kitchen in Point Breeze. His goals included aligning the kitchen with the home’s style, complementing existing Mexican Saltillo tile floors, increasing home value, and creating an eco-friendly space. The small kitchen, measuring 8 by 15 feet, was designed in a Craftsman style. He maximized island cabinet space and countertop surface for a bar-type eating area, using frameless cabinet construction to enhance interior space. Custom features included extending wall cabinets to the ceiling, using drawers instead of roll-out shelves, and a specific drawer for flatware. Levine self-performed the construction, using low VOC paint, water-saving fixtures, and Energy Star-rated appliances. He replaced a drafty back door with an energy-efficient wood door and restored a transom window. Gerald Lee Morosco led a kitchen remodel in Shadyside as part of a rehabilitation of a Dutch Colonial-style home. The existing kitchen, remodeled in the 1980s, lacked historical details. Morosco’s design aimed to reintegrate functionality with the home’s classic style. The kitchen was arranged into functional areas: a primary cooking area with a range and island, a cleanup area with dual dishwashers, a pantry with storage for a freezer and wine cabinet, and a breakfast space. Cabinet and drawer contents were meticulously planned for efficiency, with pull-out trays for pots and pans, and individual bins for garbage and recyclables. The island's non-working side included pull-up stools for guests, allowing them to engage without obstructing the cooking process. #KitchenRenovation #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #SustainableDesign #FunctionalKitchens #PittsburghHomes #HomeImprovements

Harmony Grogan, a kitchen designer, undertook a transformative renovation of a client's kitchen, which was previously described as "dark, bland," and "beige." The client desired a space that blended modern functionality with vintage charm. The existing kitchen suffered from poor lighting, with light fixtures positioned inadequately, creating shadows. The layout was also inefficient, featuring a large, dated beige island that dominated the space, preventing proper workflow and making the kitchen feel cramped despite its size. Additionally, the kitchen lacked storage solutions, leading to clutter on countertops. The original design included heavy, dark wood cabinetry and a limited color palette, contributing to a dim and uninviting atmosphere. The design also incorporated a built-in pantry that was aesthetically unappealing and not fully utilized. The renovation began with addressing the lighting and structural issues. Recessed ceiling lights were installed to provide ample ambient illumination, replacing the previous inadequate fixtures. The large, cumbersome island was removed to open up the floor plan and improve flow. To enhance storage and visual appeal, a new custom island was introduced, featuring both open and closed shelving. This new island, with a marble top, serves as a focal point and offers increased functionality without overwhelming the space. The outdated pantry was replaced with a more streamlined and aesthetically integrated storage solution. The aesthetic transformation involved a strategic use of color and materials. The old, dark beige cabinetry was replaced with custom cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nose (1678), a serene blue shade that brightens the room and introduces a fresh, modern feel. The trim was painted in Early Morning (CC-818), a complementary shade that aligns with the home’s existing mint-green and blue exterior, maintaining a cohesive architectural style within the neighborhood of older bungalows. The flooring, previously a dark and uninspiring material, was updated to a lighter, more reflective surface, further contributing to the kitchen's brighter ambiance. The layout was optimized by consolidating essential kitchen functions onto a single 10.5-foot-wide wall. This efficient design includes custom cabinetry and scaled-down Miele appliances, such as a 24-inch cooktop, an 18-inch paneled dishwasher, and a 24-inch refrigerator, maximizing space without sacrificing utility. Glossy white backsplash tiles were installed to reflect light and add a clean, modern touch. Schoolhouse light fixtures in a marigold hue were chosen to provide both task lighting and a vintage-inspired decorative element, contributing to the desired mix of modern and classic styles. A custom 5-by-4-foot banquette replaced a former dresser in the corner, offering a comfortable and integrated dining area. Instead of traditional upper cabinetry, which Harmony believed would visually close off the space, open shelving was implemented. This choice maintains an airy feel and allows for decorative display, with connecting elements to ensure a cohesive look. The renovation extended to the smallest details, with Harmony specifying everything from plates and cutlery to the artwork, ensuring a complete and harmonious design. The overall transformation resulted in a significantly brighter, more functional, and aesthetically pleasing kitchen that perfectly balances modern needs with vintage charm. #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #HomeImprovement #KitchenDesign #BlueNose #CustomCabinetry #OpenShelving #VintageCharm

The article details a kitchen renovation project led by designer Harmony Grogan, which transformed a previously dark and bland beige kitchen into a brighter, more functional, and aesthetically pleasing space. The original kitchen was characterized by its outdated beige cabinets and a less-than-optimal layout that didn't fully utilize the space. The homeowner sought a significant update to create a more open and inviting atmosphere that also provided modern amenities and a unique design. Grogan's vision for the renovation was to blend modern functionality with vintage charm. A key aspect of this transformation was the strategic use of color. The cabinetry was painted with Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nose (1678), a soft and airy blue, while the trim received a fresh coat of Early Morning (CC-818), a light shade that complements the blue. These color choices were deliberately selected to align with the home's existing mint-green and blue exterior, ensuring a cohesive look that also resonated with the neighborhood's older bungalows and their colorful aesthetic. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation significantly improved the kitchen's functionality and layout. The design team maximized the use of a narrow 10.5-foot-wide space by consolidating all essential kitchen elements onto a single wall. This included installing custom cabinetry that provided ample storage while maintaining a streamlined appearance. The space was further enhanced with scaled-down Miele appliances, which are both efficient and space-saving. Notable appliances included a 24-inch cooktop, an 18-inch paneled dishwasher, and a 24-inch refrigerator. The backsplash was updated with glossy white tiles, contributing to the bright and clean feel of the kitchen, and Schoolhouse light fixtures in a marigold hue were added, injecting a touch of warmth and vintage appeal. A significant change in the layout involved the conversion of a previously underutilized corner, which housed a dresser, into a functional and comfortable area. This corner was reimagined to accommodate a custom 5-by-4-foot banquette, providing a cozy dining or seating nook within the kitchen itself. To prevent the space from feeling enclosed, Grogan opted for open shelving instead of traditional upper cabinetry. This choice not only contributed to an open and airy feel but also allowed for decorative displays and easy access to frequently used items. The open shelving design included connecting elements, which added to the visual continuity and modern aesthetic of the kitchen. The renovation project also paid close attention to the smaller details, extending beyond just the fixed elements of the kitchen. Harmony Grogan emphasized a comprehensive approach, specifying everything from the plates and cutlery to the artwork on the walls. This meticulous attention to detail ensured that the entire kitchen, including its accessories, contributed to the overall desired aesthetic and functionality. The successful transformation resulted in a kitchen that is not only brighter and more modern but also maintains a unique character that fits seamlessly with the home and its surroundings. #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #HomeImprovement #KitchenMakeover #HarmonyGrogan #BlueKitchen #HomeDecor #ApplianceUpgrade

A Newton kitchen underwent a significant renovation to address issues of darkness and lack of functionality, transforming it into a vibrant and practical space. The initial idea of simply updating counters and cabinet colors evolved into a comprehensive remodel, driven by the wife's passion for cooking and the family's frequent gatherings. Key to this transformation was an expansion of the rear of the house by 300 square feet, which created a larger eat-in area, a walk-in pantry, a dry bar, and a mudroom. This mudroom was designed with future needs in mind, capable of accommodating an elevator for aging in place, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to long-term usability. Eleven Interiors, led by Michael Ferzoco, spearheaded the project, collaborating with architect Timothy Burke and contractor Paul Donelan. The design choices focused on maximizing light, adding color, and enhancing efficiency. For instance, the cabinetry, sourced from Jewett Farms, was painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Chopsticks, a neutral shade that contributes to the kitchen's bright aesthetic. To avoid visually lowering the just-under-8-foot ceiling, the walls and trim were painted a lighter variation of the same color, creating a cohesive and open feel. This strategic use of color ensures that the space feels expansive despite its ceiling height. A central design element was the selection of hand-painted encaustic tiles from Ann Sacks. These tiles, chosen for their varied color saturation and geometric patterns, served as an inspirational starting point for the kitchen's overall palette. Ferzoco meticulously arranged the tiles, turning some to prevent repetitive patterns and ensure a dynamic visual effect, highlighting the attention to detail in the design process. The island, a focal point of the kitchen, was painted in Farrow & Ball’s Calke Green, a color that harmonizes with the backsplash and the natural outdoor surroundings, injecting a sense of vibrancy and happiness into the space. Lighting was another critical consideration, particularly for illuminating the large island. Instead of multiple small pendants that could create a cluttered look, an Articolo linear pendant with brass-mesh inlay was chosen. This fixture effectively lights the entire island while maintaining a clean and uncluttered visual line. Above the cooking area, a custom metal hood, designed to resemble aged copper, adds a rustic touch. Its color was carefully selected to be in the same family as the tiles without being overly matched. Gabriel Scott sconces made of smoked bronze glass were strategically placed to add visual interest without obscuring the intricate backsplash. These lighting and fixture choices demonstrate a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional design. Functionality was also a primary concern, especially given the wife's love for cooking. The island features an overhang with stools, providing a comfortable spot for casual dining or enjoying coffee while looking out at the yard. Open shelves, topped with durable and warm oak, offer easy access to cookware, emphasizing the kitchen's role as a working culinary space. These shelves also serve to display the homeowner's vessels, integrating personal items into the design and making the kitchen feel more lived-in and authentic. The overall renovation successfully transformed a dark and inconvenient kitchen into a bright, colorful, and highly efficient area that caters to the family’s lifestyle. #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #NewtonMassachusetts #ElevenInteriors #ModernKitchen #CustomCabinetry #LightingDesign