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2008 Local Chapter NKBA Design Contest
3rd Place Small-Medium Kitchens
Designer: Sheila Tilander, CKD, CBD, Allied ASID
Kitchen Remodel Delight in White
The twenty-year old kitchen was tired and showing its age. The time had come and gone for the oak cabinets and built-in desk in an age of wireless technology. Space was limited but there was room to increase efficiency and function with an altered floor plan. The clients were eager to give the kitchen a facelift and a fresh new look.
Problems
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Out-dated cabinets and appliances lacked visual appeal and efficiency
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White tile countertop was difficult to maintain and uninteresting
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Oak floors needed re-finishing
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Dishwasher location was inconvenient and crowded in proximity to the cooktop
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Desk wasn’t being used but a location for the phone and storage for cookbooks was needed
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New energy efficient appliances were needed
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Lighting was inadequate
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Weather-worn French doors to the backyard were difficult to open
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Eating bar on the peninsula was unused and consumed valuable space
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Window installed flush with the countertop made it difficult to open
Solutions
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Maple cabinets painted a fresh linen color brighten the kitchen; glass doors visually expand the space; undercabinet light valances and corbels add interest
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Honed absolute black granite countertops and backsplash contrast dramatically with the white cabinets and eliminate troublesome grout joints; honed finish makes countertops appear more casual and homey than highly polished granite
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A white farm sink adds character and charm
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Diamond-shaped soft green tiles with creamy oval insets provide a focal point behind the cooktop and offset the custom wood hood
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Oak floors were stained darker and refinished to add warmth and to contrast with the cabinets
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Increased efficiency by adding cabinet accessories and characteristics such as deep drawers with full-extension soft-close guides, roll-out shelves, tray dividers, and corner lazy Susan
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Relocated dishwasher by removing eating bar thereby expanding usable space
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Replaced desk with tall cabinet that holds cookbooks and has a charging station for phones and other electronics
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Replaced appliances with a ceramic cooktop, convection microwave and oven, and energy efficient refrigerator
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A new pocket door to the hallway helps to contain heat in the heart of the home when needed and disappears when not in use
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Undercabinet lighting, multiple can lights, and an iron pendant above the dining table all on dimmers generously illuminate the space and provide many task and ambient lighting options
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New wood clad French doors open smoothly and protect against the weather
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New window above the sink was raised above the granite backsplash and opens easily
To the homeowners’ delight, the goal to greatly enhance aesthetics and function was met.
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