A Nonsensical Kitchen is Set Straight

Project: Reorganize an awkward space in this kitchen renovation

Before: Meredith and Jason’s apartment building in Chelsea was comprised of four townhouses that had been combined. The result was a kitchen with plenty of issues: Dark mahogany cabinets obscured the only window, blocking precious natural light. The kitchen island in a too-small space meant you could only walk around it if you brushed yourself up against a wall. A slightly raised floor made for regular toe-stubbing if you weren’t paying attention. A kitchen renovation was definitely in order.

After: The couple took some time getting an idea of what they wanted. Meredith took ownership of the aesthetics and Jason, the family cook, focused on creating a functional space. Despite the awkward island, Meredith still liked the idea of having one. After wrestling with the design, their Sweeten contractor suggested a wide peninsula. “As soon as I saw the drawing, I was on board with it,” said Meredith. This helped double the counter space and gives her a place to sit and work while Jason prepares dinner. The new wood floor was lowered an inch, eliminating the risk to toes, and now matches the rest of the apartment, making the kitchen feel “bigger, brighter and cleaner,” she said. Custom cabinetry freed the window for maximum natural light. The microwave was placed under the peninsula rather than above the range so Jason could install his dream hood.

Bonus: The ceiling dropped about a foot in the old kitchen and a previous contractor said it could not be lifted. When their Sweeten contractor came in and found a way to lift it about seven inches, it was a big relief for the couple.   

Style finds: Custom cabinets by the Sweeten contractor. Pendant lights and cabinet hardware: Schoolhouse Electric. Countertop and backsplash in Statuario Maximus: Caesarstone. Faucet: Delta. Sink: Elkay. Range hood: Bosch. Microwave: Thermador. Green cabinet paint in Pigeon: Farrow and Ball. White cabinet paint: Benjamin Moore.

Thank you Meredith and Jason for sharing your new kitchen. Stay tuned next week to see how their bath renovation made a 180-degree turn!

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When designing your dream kitchen, it’s good to know how much everything will cost and where that money goes. Check out our post on kitchen renovation costs and start planning today.

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