The Scandinavian Kitchen Transformation
This project was a complete kitchen renovation with a clear vision: to transform a dark, outdated space into a bright, open, and highly functional Scandinavian-style kitchen. The goal was to create a place that was not only beautiful but also a testament to the power of thoughtful, minimalist design.
The Problem: A Kitchen that Lacked Light and Efficiency
The original kitchen was a textbook case of inefficiency. Outdated cabinetry with chipped finishes and old Corian countertops created a dark, heavy feel. The layout was poor, with wasted space and a cramped area around the island that made cooking and gathering difficult. The pantry, with its wire shelving and bi-fold doors, was difficult to access and offered very limited, awkward storage.
The Solution: A Strategic Renovation for an Open, Airy Feel
Our solution was a full gut renovation, but with a twist: we kept the existing layout and floors to streamline the project. To instantly open up the space, we eliminated all upper cabinets and replaced them with clean white oak shelving. The perimeter and island cabinets were also replaced with white oak shakers, which not only brightened the room but also perfectly aligned with a Scandinavian aesthetic.
To maximize every inch of storage, we made a strategic shift from traditional cabinets to deep, pull-out drawers. We even extended the perimeter cabinets to include an additional pull-out trash receptacle. To improve traffic flow between the kitchen and dining area, we removed the island's overhang. For a modern, seamless look, we placed the microwave inside the island.
The countertops were chosen to be both beautiful and practical: white quartz with subtle veins of gold and gray that tied into the floor's warm tones. For a touch of modern vintage appeal, we used a hexagon tile with a distressed edge for the backsplash. The space was finished with a brushed nickel faucet and black hardware, which added a bold, contrasting element. The pantry was also completely revamped with a widened opening, new wooden shelving, and pull-out drawers to optimize every inch of storage. The doors were painted black to be cohesive with the other black elements in the space.
The final result is a kitchen that is a testament to the beauty of simplicity—a functional, light-filled, and thoughtfully designed heart of the home.
Inspired to create your own unforgettable space?
Whether you're looking to transform your kitchen or your entire home, I'd love to hear about your project.