Thoughtfully Designed Kitchen with a Compact, Efficient Layout
When planning a kitchen remodel, efficient layout becomes key, because efficiency lives in the layout—not the size—by working within the existing footprint. In this 1942 home in St. Paul’s Macalester-Groveland neighborhood, the homeowners had lived in the house for 20 years. With their kids now out of the house, they were ready to invest in a kitchen they could truly enjoy for many years to come. Our job was to rethink the layout, prioritize function, and design a kitchen that felt intentional, comfortable, and built for everyday use.
Before & After
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Closing off a doorway in the kitchen to enable us to reconfigure the layout.
By eliminating an extra pass-through, we gained valuable wall space for cabinetry and appliances, allowing the kitchen to function better without increasing its size.
Soft, Neutral Design Palette
Rather than chasing trends, the design prioritizes thoughtful storage, soft neutral cabinetry, and a layout built for everyday living—proof that a classic kitchen can still feel fresh and modern.
- Custom cabinetry painted in Herbal Escape by Benjamin Moore sets the tone for the kitchen.
- The 2×6 backsplash tile feels perfectly proportioned, with a glossy finish that reflects light and helps brighten the space.
- Cup pulls on drawers and knobs on doors reinforce a timeless approach to hardware.
- The black countertops completely change how the kitchen reads—had we gone with white, the space would feel entirely different.
Bonus detail: can you spot the pull-out cutting board? A feature commonly found in older kitchens and a subtle nod to the home’s roots.
Custom Cabinetry & Finishing Details
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The Beauty Is in the Details
Each cabinet is crafted, painted, and finished intentionally—allowing the details to truly shine. Think of the finishing touches as the jewelry of the space: hardware that elevates both function and design. The microwave fits seamlessly into the cabinetry for a clean, integrated look. An apron-front sink breaks up the cabinetry and pairs beautifully with the stainless steel appliances, adding both character and balance.
A highly functional space designed to fit naturally within the scale and character of an older home
That meant paying close attention to proportion, flow, and how the kitchen connects to the rest of the house. Running the hardwood floors into the kitchen helps reconnect it to adjacent spaces, while a dedicated corner for casual meals and well-placed windows bring in natural light—making it an easy, comfortable place to sit and enjoy a meal.
Interested in remodeling your kitchen? Learn more about our kitchen remodeling approach.
