When renovating an existing home, sometimes the goal isn't to completely reinvent the space. Instead, it's about finding ways to make the home work better while preserving the architectural details and character that made it special in the first place.
This kitchen renovation is a perfect example. Our clients were thinking about selling their Vermont home to move to a retirement community, but instead, decided to renovate their home into a place they’re never want to leave.
The existing home had a distinct footprint and architectural details, such as an exposed brick archway , we wanted to work with, rather than against. By thoughtfully designing around those elements, we were able to give the kitchen a major update that feels more functional and current, but also completely at home in its surroundings.
Working With the Existing Home
One of the most important parts of renovating an existing home is understanding what should change, and what shouldn't.
Rather than trying to force an entirely new layout into the space, we designed the kitchen around the home's existing floor plan and architectural features. That meant looking carefully at everything from the placement of the windows to how the homeowners would naturally move through and use the kitchen.
Below, you can see what the kitchen originally looked like:
While keeping the placement of the countertop and relocating the oven, we were able to preserve the view enjoyed by our clients.
The final result (below) includes Plato inset natural cherry cabinetry and timeliness soapstone countertops with a farmhouse sink— an update that transforms the space!
Bringing Warmth Back Into the Space
One of the biggest transformations happened underfoot.
The existing tile flooring made the kitchen feel cold, so we replaced it with warm, wide pine flooring. The natural variation and character of the pine immediately changed the feeling of the room, creating a warmer foundation for the rest of the design. You can see the difference in the photo below!
Modern Function Without Losing Character
While the finished kitchen has a timeless look, this was still a major makeover.
The goal was to give the homeowners the functionality they wanted from a modern kitchen without making the renovation feel out of place within the existing home.
That's where thoughtful custom design makes such a difference.
From cabinetry dimensions and storage to the placement of major work areas, every decision was made specifically for this home and the people living in it. The new space feels easier and more intuitive to use, while the natural materials help it retain the warmth and character of the original house.
If you're considering a renovation, we'd love to help you find ways to make your existing home more functional while preserving the details that make it yours.