Maria Jean’s Featured Project:
Kitchen Remodel

What was your client’s inspiration for the dramatic change in the kitchen?

The client had requested for her design to compliment the Mexican hacienda theme they’ve been adding to over the years.  They have collected different pieces of Mexican inspired artworks that have been placed throughout their home.  Through years of collecting this style or art they held so dearly, it was important to tie it all together with the centerpiece of every home, the kitchen.  My design was aimed at complimenting this existing them, yet adding a modern era feel to the rustic collection of art.

Your client’s kitchen underwent quite a transformation. Tell us about it.

The main challenge for this design was the customer’s desire to have a larger kitchen.  She identified some of the challenges she had as an active mother and the desire to have more space to prepare family meals and also have a more inviting atmosphere for entertaining guests.  The obstacle I faced was that the main wall of the kitchen was a load bearing wall so we couldn’t expand beyond the wall.  Instead we gained several feet of space by removing a hall closet that sat adjacent to the kitchen.  This gave us more room to meet the customer’s desires for more counter space and storage.

Other major changes to the existing kitchen were replacing an electric range with gas, and accommodating the authentic red brick floor that presents challenges with its sand base creating uneven floors.  Electric was removed and gas lines were installed for the new gas range and the cabinets were successfully installed and over the red brick to make quite an impact.

What are some of the functional storage solutions you chose?

I added 2 pullout spice racks hidden with decorative legs on both sides of the stainless steel range.  With the removal of the hallway closet we were able to add 2 full cabinets containing four drawers, with a lower cabinet containing 2 pull-out trays.  We accommodated the peninsula to be install a microwave in a lower cabinet and no longer taking up counter space.  Overall, the customer’s goals were met by maximizing the available space and creating a larger feeling kitchen.

Can you share some of the specific styles and finishes that you used?

• Medallion Cabinet line
• Camelot Door
• Sable glaze eagle rock
• Countertops chosen White reef
• Backsplash: custom tile and color from Fireclay Tile

Any advice for homeowners who’re just getting started?

Start your research by looking at Houzz or Pinterest as inspirations to determine your style and flavor, get some advice from your designer on how to achieve your unique look.

Show your designer your goals and determine a budget.

Always be ready for the unexpected in a remodel with an older home.