With approximately 5,000 homes built in Chanhassen during the 1980s and ’90s, many homeowners in the area are finding themselves ready for a refresh—and this family was no exception. These Chanhassen homeowners came to James Barton Design-Build with a clear vision: they wanted to brighten up their dated interiors and improve the layout and functionality of their kitchen and mudroom to better suit their everyday needs.
Their 1990s home featured the typical closed-off floor plan and limited natural light common in that era’s design. The homeowners sought a space that felt lighter, more open, and better suited for entertaining, cooking, and keeping life organized. JBDB responded with a full kitchen and mudroom remodel that combined modern design sensibilities with timeless materials and practical updates.
This Chanhassen kitchen remodel strikes a beautiful balance between rustic character and modern simplicity. The design is rich in texture and layered with intentional details that bring warmth and style to the heart of the home.
A Clean, Balanced Palette
White enameled upper cabinets create a bright, airy atmosphere, while soft gray lower cabinets ground the space with a modern, neutral tone. Marble-veined countertops tie the look together, offering timeless elegance and subtle movement.
Textural Interest from Top to Bottom
To maintain an open and spacious feel, the JBDB team made the strategic decision to stop the cabinetry short of the ceiling. In its place, a full-height ceramic herringbone tile backsplash extends from countertop to ceiling—adding both texture and a sense of verticality.
Rustic Touches with Purpose
Key rustic design elements, including a custom wood hood and classic farmhouse sink, add warmth and character. One of the standout features is a structural beam that was thoughtfully refinished to resemble reclaimed barn wood—blending authenticity and craftsmanship with the new design.
Thoughtful functionality was at the core of this kitchen remodel, with every detail designed to enhance how the family lives, cooks, and entertains.
A Welcoming Beverage Center:
Positioned just outside the main cooking zone, the beverage center offers a dedicated space for guests to gather without disrupting kitchen workflow. It doubles as a morning coffee nook and includes additional refrigeration—perfect for busy daily routines.
Intentional Lighting Choices:
Two open, modern pendant fixtures were selected to float above the island, offering both style and practicality. Their sleek design adds visual interest while remaining easy to clean—a smart choice for a high-use space.
Custom Storage for Everyday Cooking:
With the homeowners’ love of cooking in mind, JBDB added custom features like a pullout cabinet for cutting boards and a prep area located directly above the garbage, making meal prep more efficient and intuitive.
Designed with real-life function in mind, the mudroom was completely reimagined to better serve this busy family of four. By reworking the floor plan and maximizing every inch of available space, James Barton Design-Build created a practical, stylish entryway that keeps clutter in check.
Smarter Layout for Everyday Living:
An under-used closet was removed to make way for more efficient, accessible storage solutions that better support the family’s daily routines.
Seasonal Storage Made Easy:
Wire drawer pullouts were added beneath the bench, offering concealed storage and a dedicated drying space for wet winter gear like mittens and hats.
Custom Cabinetry with Built-In Tech:
A sleek built-in cabinet and countertop provides a catchall surface, while integrated drawer charging stations help keep devices powered and organized.
Seamless Style with the Kitchen:
To visually tie the mudroom to the newly remodeled kitchen, the same neutral paint palette and quartz countertop were used throughout. A stained wood bench echoes the rustic kitchen hood, bringing warmth and continuity to the space.
Durable, High-Traffic Flooring:
Porcelain tile flooring was selected for its durability and easy maintenance, making it ideal for Minnesota winters and active family life.
Emily, Ryan and Troy were great to work with though our entire project! The project commenced and finished on the dates established by Troy, adjusting the schedule where necessary to accommodate all of the variables involved with an assignment like ours! We could not be happier with our end product and cannot wait to work with this team again on our next home improvement project!
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