Our small galley kitchen went from an eye sore, only usable by one, to a warm and friendly place where the whole family can cook and enjoy. We accomplished this transformation for just over $30,000 and without changing the footprint of the space. As sailors we respect efficiency in function and design. This kitchen couldn’t flow any better. I swear my food tastes better now that the remodel is complete! 

Design problems: 1 – Increase workspace. 2 – Create a bigger sense of space. 3 – Incorporate the adjoining sitting room into the kitchen without destroying the original intent of the 1940s architecture.

Solutions: 1 – Think outside the box. By replacing one double hung window with an awning window, we were able to add an entire bank of cabinets and counter top. 2 – Hire a designer. By working with a really talented designer, we were able to move the refrigerator, add a pantry in its place, remove the upper cabinets which closed the space in and add a second prep sink. The result was a 65% increase in storage and a 50% increase in counter top space. We also achieved a bigger sense of space by adding white countertops that reflect the light. They are holding up great. No stains and easy to maintain. 3 – Use existing features. The existing living room/dining room was divided by an architectural arch. Our designer suggested we join the kitchen to the dining room by removing the narrow doorway and adding a similar arch. The result has literally changed the way we live in our home!

Unexpected challenges. Our contractor bid the project thinking a beam in the kitchen was non-load bearing. He was wrong which meant an extra 2 days labor to push the new beam into the ceiling above. In addition, the water pipes for the second floor were laid lower than expected so extra time went into moving all of the water pipes, another unplanned expense. 

Total cost: $32,000.

Square Feet: 14 x 8 ft. kitchen. 

Purchases: Energy Star Jennair refrigerator, Medallion Gold cabinets with custom paint colors, soft close doors and drawers. Pental Quartz countertops. Designer handles in oil rubbed bronze. Select white oak floors. Jennair Hood. Energy Star Kitchenaid dishwasher. Custom paint on top and bottom. Pratt and Larson tile. Farrow and Ball paint.  Bar and shelving locally harvested Myrtle wood.