This house was 45 years old and the most recent kitchen update was past its due date. It was also time to update an adjacent family room, eating area and a nearby bar. The idea was to refresh the space with a transitional design that leaned classic – something that would be elegant and comfortable. Something that would welcome and enhance natural light. The objectives were: -Keep things simple – classic, comfortable and easy to keep clean -Cohesive design between the kitchen, family room, eating area and bar -Comfortable walkways, especially between the island and sofa -Get rid of the kitchen’s dated 3D vegetable tile and island top shaped like a painters pallet Design challenges: -Incorporate a structural beam so that it flows with the entire space -Proper ventilation for the hood -Update the floor finish to get rid of the ’90s red oak Design solutions: -After reviewing multiple design options we decided on keeping appliances in their existing locations -Made the cabinet on the back wall deeper than standard to fit and conceal the exhaust vent within the crown molding space and provide proper ventilation for the rangetop -Omitted the sink on the island because it was not being used -Squared off the island to provide more seating and functionality -Relocated the microwave from the wall to the island and fitted a warming drawer directly below -Added a tray partition over the oven so that cookie sheets and cutting boards are easily accessible and neatly stored -Omitted all the decorative fillers to make the kitchen feel current -Detailed yet simple tile backsplash design to add interest Refinished the already functional entertainment cabinetry to match new cabinets – good flow throughout area Even though the appliances all stayed in the same locations, the cabinet finish created a dramatic change. This is a very large kitchen and the client embraces minimalist design so we decided to omit quite a few wall cabinets.