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Project Description
& Challenges
The existing 126 square foot kitchen was overwhelmed by the needs of
a
family of five. The clients wanted to create a space that was
comfortable
for the family to gather for meals, and yearned to indulge a passion
for
cooking. They found the dark existing kitchen cabinets dreary and
wanted to make the space light and give it a spacious feel. This was
a tall challenge given the 9' x 13' dimensions of the kitchen.
The design team took advantage of an adjoining three-season sunroom
and utilized the 154 square feet and the structurally sound
foundation to
increase the size of the kitchen. This cost saving measure presented
several challenges: removal of a load bearing wall, utilization of
an
unheated space, a change in floor elevations and a long, narrow
footprint
that measured 25' by 9.'
In response to these challenges, design team developed plans for a
header to be installed between the two rooms and used the high
ceiling of the sunroom to elevate the floor. This allowed for the
oak flooring in the rest of the home to be extended into the kitchen
and eating area, providing visual continuity and lending a feeling
of spaciousness. The high ceiling was insulated and left intact,
providing some visual punch to the area above the kitchen table.
There are three distinct cooking and prep zones in the new layout,
so
several family members can take part in the preparation too. In
addition,
the new floor plan allowed for a tiled mudroom when a wall was
removed.
Layered lighting adds to the effectiveness of the space. Task
lighting is
provided by halogen under cabinet lighting as well as recessed
MR-16s and a halogen lighting package in the hood. General lighting
is on a dimmer and combining these elements creates a range of moods
in the kitchen.
Design is the key to the success of this project, transforming an
overcrowded space into a welcoming environment for friends and
family. This kitchen has become the heart of this home and is a
daily source of delight for the clients.
Best
Remodeling:
Kitchen $100,000 - $150,000 (Silver) 2006 |
