Modernizing a Closed-Off Kitchen with a More Connected Layout

Navigating Ductwork, Venting, and Existing Framing

One of the biggest challenges in transforming a 90s kitchen into a more open-concept layout is working around existing mechanical systems and walls. To make this design work, our team needed to: 

• Remove a wall between the kitchen and dining room. 
• Integrate ductwork and venting originally located in the soffits. 
• Account for second-floor framing conditions that could impact the smoothness of the finished kitchen ceiling.

Achieving a Modern Kitchen Design

Removing the dividing wall and reworking existing mechanical systems gave us the blank slate we needed to create a more functional kitchen and dining area. We brought the Cole family’s vision to life by: 

• Enameling the kitchen cabinets with Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa SW7551, a creamy white color that brightened the room. 
• Building a center island for additional seating and to improve the layout and flow of the kitchen. 
• Installing Hanstone countertops in the Odina design, featuring a subtle veined pattern in gray and white with slightly warm undertones. 
• Tiling the backsplash with TileBar Portmore White 3×8 Glazed Ceramic Subway Wall Tile, a glossy design with a subtle blend of white and warm, light gray shades. 
• Adding floating shelves for extra storage without closing off the space. 
• Using black GE appliances to create contrast with the primarily light color palette. 
• Adding minimalistic black hardware from Top Knobs for contrast with the white cabinets. 
• Installing a Blanco kitchen sink for durable, low-maintenance luxury. 

Updating the lighting with clear glass pendulum lights above the center island and a clear glass fixture above the sink

Achieving a Functional, Open Space to Cook and Gather

Because this renovation joined two previously separate rooms and flowed into a connected living area, the design needed to feel cohesive throughout the space. We achieved this with a thoughtful layout that makes it easier to walk through the space without having to navigate around awkward counters. 

The color palette also ties the spaces together, making them feel integrated rather than compartmentalized. 

Not only does the layout improve sightlines and feel more open, but it also makes the kitchen, dining area, and living spaces brighter. Removing the wall dividing the dining room lets in much more light, as the kitchen area now has two windows and a sliding patio door.