Kitchen Design: From Small Things Big Things Come
The Mission
Dated and dark, this diminutive 14’x 11’ kitchen from the 70’s lacked counter space, storage, and style. The homeowners were ready for a change and envisioned a modern direction for this Naperville kitchen remodel that in the end lit up both the room and their spirits.
Soft white cabinetry, subway tiles, and a larger window all helped to create this remarkable Naperville kitchen remodel
“I am amazed every time I walk in the kitchen; the transformation from the 70’s kitchen to the new design is remarkable! Our kitchen is contemporary in design without being cold feeling. It is very functional and a joy to be in, even when not cooking.”
Kitchen Before Remodel
The client’s basic goals for this kitchen were very straight forward:
- -Update the appearance of the kitchen and capture a classic but modern look
- -Meet a firm budget for the project
- -Brighten up the kitchen and add lighting
- -Add counter space and work area
- -Build in additional storage
The Challenge
The original kitchen appeared smaller than it actually was because of a small table in the middle of it. The existing lighting was poor due to a lack of basic lighting and a small window by the sink that let in just minimal light. So the challenge was to transform this kitchen space into a well-lit, beautiful but efficient kitchen within a very specific budget.
Floor Plan
The Solution
First, it was decided that a soft white color for the cabinetry would brighten up the room. The range wall was transformed into the main focal point and features textured glass doors, a contemporary stainless steel hood and light mocha tinted glass subway tile which add a classic touch.
Next order of business was to include an attractive island for the center of the room, which not only served as an eating area, it also created additional work area and storage, and made the space appear much larger.
The sink wall was also updated by putting in a new larger window; one of our favorite things to do in any kitchen. Other design features include a stainless steel apron front sink, a unique faucet, an appliance garage and a tall angled cabinet – which were all on the client’s original wish list. Finally, beautiful contemporary pendant lighting from Italy, which was sourced and provided by the homeowner, brings this kitchen altogether and put the icing on the cake and helped define its modern cache.
The range wall became the focal point of the room
Materials List
Cabinetry:
- -The Grabill Cabinet Company and Ovation Cabinetry
Door Style:
- -Grabill Perimeter – Shaker style Maple door with white paint
- -Ovation Island – Shaker style Cherry door with stain
Countertop Materials:
- -Cashmere White Granite
Appliances:
- -Jenn-Air Range & Refrigerator / Freezer
- -Zephyr Hood
- -Sharp Microwave
- -Existing Dishwasher
Sink / Faucet:
- -Lenova Sink / Danze & Franke Faucets
Client Commendation
Since I love every feature of the kitchen, it’s hard to say which my favorite is. That being said, I love the new island with the built-in microwave oven and the trash/recycling drawer.
What most impressed us about Drury Design was the quality of the employees, work being done on time and staying close to our budget.
Tina Muller and team were very professional and knowledgeable. The workmanship of our installers Jack and Tony was superior in every fashion. Tina was always available to answer many questions and never made you feel uninformed for asking them. She was truly wonderful to work with.
We can’t think of anything that Drury Design did not do to make this project more beneficial. We would recommend them without any reservations.
I would advise anyone thinking about redoing a kitchen to interview several companies both at their business location and at your home. Also do research on products and features – i.e. counter tops, appliances, etc.
We love our kitchen. When people first see it, the first word out of their mouth is ‘WOW!”
Nancy and Bob Segal / Naperville, IL