Remodeling A Historic Kitchen
Last Updated November 24, 2025
Kitchen Projects
Project Profiles
Portland Kitchen Remodel
This Irvington kitchen remodeling project preserves historic features and improves functionality.
A historic kitchen isn’t usually equipped to meet the needs of modern families. Without soft-close drawers, granite countertops or the space to store a dozen appliances, these antiquated spaces provide more hassle than convenience. This 1920s Irvington kitchen was no exception, until the homeowners and Neil Kelly Design Consultant Barbara Miller transformed the space. “Before the remodel, the kitchen literally had no counter space,” says Miller. “They were using cutting boards on cooktops.” In order to transform this pocket-sized kitchen into a family gathering space, they had to get creative, using the existing kitchen, dining area and enclosed porch. The process was further complicated as the home required a Historic Review due to its age and location. “Historic Reviews can add one to three months to your remodel,” says Miller, explaining that every remodel detail must be submitted, scrutinized and approved by a review board. “This kitchen went through a number of reviews and redesigns. The overall design process took six months and the building took five months.”“My favorite part of any project is working with the client and getting their wishlist, so they can get the kitchen of their dreams.” – Barbara Miller
A Space Worth Celebrating
Once the layout was approved, the details started to fall into place. Miller says the key to designing a modern kitchen in a historic home is seamlessly blending period-specific elements — like subway tiles and reclaimed wood — that maintain the room’s charm without compromising modern conveniences.
Custom windows were designed to match the original windows, and the original kitchen area was transformed into a fully-functioning breakfast bar, with a twist. The breakfast bar now stores all the fixings the clients need to prep meals for their kids. When company comes over, they can convert it into a full-service bar. The granite-top island is the heart of the kitchen. It serves as both a prep station and the perfect gathering space with chairs. Underneath, the island offers near limitless storage for appliances.
The most functional element of the kitchen is also the most loved by the clients — the dining banquette. This beautiful space features a custom bench with storage, custom period-specific windows and a reclaimed walnut tabletop. It’s the perfect place for the family to eat a cozy meal or host friends for dinner.
“Remodeling can be stressful, but it should also be a celebration of what their new space is going to become,” says Miller. “My favorite part of any project is working with the client and getting their wishlist, so they can get the kitchen of their dreams.”
Ready to transform your space into the kitchen of your dreams? Get in touch with Neil Kelly today.
