The existing kitchen layout created tight work aisles, minimal counter and storage space, and utilized only 62% of the overall available space, which was the impetus for the remodel. The clients’ wanted a modern farmhouse feel, but their overall focus was specific: “quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a well thought out and creative redesign for the spaces”. They also requested designated areas for baking, entertaining, and family meals, double ovens, better ventilation, island seating, a wet bar, and the addition of mudroom storage. Creating a design that not only fulfilled their wish list, but felt cohesive, and left as little “unused” space as possible, was the major challenge of this project. A large part of that challenge was not being able to change or eliminate any of the existing entryways and windows. This made the location of the island critical, as it needed to leave clearances for work aisles, seating, and walkways. The island seating is provided by a Wenge “Flying W” top that cantilevers out from its corner and is supported by recessed steel supports and waterfall ends, adding interest and dimension to the large rectangular space. Proper ventilation was achieved, along with creating a focal point, by moving the cooktop to the exterior wall and designing a custom wood hood above, that is ducted directly outside. Adding bench seating from the base cabinets to the East wall, created the connection the space needed. Opposite of the bench seats, the wet bar is also connected to the East wall, and is easily accessible from the dining room, kitchen table, and island. To create the modern farmhouse aesthetic, a mix of white and seafoam painted cabinetry were accented with stained cherry interiors, trims, and shelves, which mimicked the cherry hardwoods in the adjacent rooms and staircases. Built-in cabinetry that matched the kitchen was added to the mudroom, which included a bench seat with vented shoe storage, hooks, and a tall cabinet with an outlet for their vacuum. The addition of a pop-up mixer lift, deep storage drawers, a microwave drawer, and a lower cabinet at the end of the island, with a soapstone top, and includes a stainless-steel baking drawer organizer, makes for the ultimate “baking center”. LED lights inside and under the wall cabinets provide task lighting at the quartzite countertops, as well as mood lighting when dimmed.