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Design Objectives and Client Wishlist

To kickstart the project, Sava worked closely with our clients to hone in on their vision, priorities, and goals. In addition to updating their mid-90s kitchen with a brighter, fresher aesthetic, they wanted to optimize their view of Lake Washington.

Functional Updates

• Removal of outdated fixtures
• Modernized design
• Easy-to-clean surfaces
• Less congestion
• Better overall functionality

Optimized Lighting and Views

• Expand view of the lake, garden, and forest
• Lighter colors
• More natural light
• Enhanced illumination

“The clients wanted something bright-looking and easy to clean,” says Sava. Talk to a designer about what you want to change in your home. Schedule a Complimentary Design Consultation. 

Design Challenges

There were, of course, a few obstacles. “The kitchen was in an awkwardly shaped room and felt very confined as you entered from the front door,” says Sava, explaining that the basement door swung into the kitchen, which created congestion around the pantry and oven cabinets. Additionally, she says, “There was an underutilized desk area that needed to be repurposed for better storage.” The exterior soffits were also in the way of expanding the view.

Design Solutions

To address the issue of congestion, the hinged basement door was replaced with a sliding barn-style door, and the pantry and oven cabinets were moved from the entry area. Not only did this make the space feel less confined, but it also allowed for an entire wall of tall cabinets. “We removed the soffits and cabinets around the windows, replacing all the upper cabinets with open shelves,” Sava adds. These solutions optimized the available space while providing more storage for a clean, modern aesthetic.

Upgrades, Customizations, and Special Features

Apart from modernizing the decades-old design, the upgrades for this project focused on maximizing space, enhancing functionality, and making the kitchen easier to clean. “Because of the challenging layout, we really didn’t move much,” says Sava, “but we made a big impact with neat features and minor design changes.”

Low-Maintenance and Modern

• White cabinetry and counters
• Streamlined brass drawer and cabinet pulls
• Non-porous, full-height backsplash
• “Negative” shelf-free wall space
• Stainless steel appliances and gas cooktop
• Designated microwave cabinet
• Easy-pull trash and recycling drawer

“The clients wanted easy cleanup, so we opted for a full-height quartz backsplash to make wiping up a breeze,” says Sava. “Above that, we added beautiful hand-painted raffia wallpaper.”

Customizations and Enhancements

• Small art shelves with custom corbels
• Hand-painted raffia wallpaper
• Sconces over each window
• Underlit open shelving for dishware
• Wine and beverage fridge

“To keep things bright, we added wall sconces over each window,” says Sava. In addition to ensuring plenty of light on dark Pacific Northwest winter days, the fixtures added a traditional touch to an otherwise modern space.

Key Suppliers and Manufacturers

Decor cabinets and Silestone countertops were selected for this renovation. The faucet came from Brizo, and the exposed hardware was ordered from Top Knobs. Barbarossa Wallcoverings supplied the raffia wallpaper. Related Article: Average Kitchen Remodel Cost in Seattle

Remodel Your Seattle Kitchen with Neil Kelly

If you’re considering a custom renovation or addition of your own, the design/build remodeling experts at Neil Kelly are here to assist. Our offices in Portland, Bend, Eugene, and Seattle transform homes all across the Pacific Northwest. Contact us today!