Similar to many other bungalow kitchens, this kitchen was cramped and cut off from the rest of the house (though no fault of its own). So how did the team transform this once small, dark kitchen in St. Anthony Park? Space planning was challenging, but designer Mary Ellen Rantanen and the team managed to make the most out of every inch.
Selected by Qualified Remodeler, this project was honored with the 2023 Gold Master Design Award. The Master Design Awards spotlight innovative solutions in the construction of extraordinary projects. You can find this project featured in the September issue of Qualified Remodeler and on their website.
Move the slider to see the transformation.
New light is brought into this home after the construction crew knocked down the wall that once butted up against the stairs. Another construction win: the staircase! From the newel post to the maple top rail, these details tie in throughout the rest of the house.
A nice mix of floor-to-ceiling closed cabinets, glass-door cabinets and drawers are installed. These clients have the best of both worlds, as they can hide the messy and display the beautiful. Last, but not least…our unsung hero: a paneled tall and narrow refrigerator that fits its allotted space perfectly!
Move the slider to see the transformation.
Equipped with a new double-hung window, this style of window is perfect for letting in fresh air. Feel the breeze as you rinse out those large pots and pans in this deep farmhouse sink.
The peninsula cabinet and breakfast bar are perfect for a light meal. They also offer extra storage and act as a subtle divider between the kitchen and dining room. With the narrow layout, it’s important that the peninsula does not impede the functionality of using both rooms. So grab your favorite bottle of wine and then ease into the dining room for a glass from one of the custom-made hutches!
An interesting detail included in this project is the furniture-style feet on the peninsula, dining room hutches and the sink base . Replicating a design detail in multiple spaces creates a sense of continuity and the illusion of it always being there.
Designer: Mary Ellen Rantanen
Project Manager: Paul Gorton
Lead Carpenter: Leaf Enz
Photos: Troy Thies
Historic Beauty
When the homeowners purchased their home on Summit Ave, renovating the kitchen was at the top of the list.
Classic Appeal
The flow and workspace are improved significantly. A warm and calming palette of colors makes the kitchen feel bigger and brighter, and the design will stand the test of time!
Mighty Small Kitchen
A fantastic solution for a small kitchen that was old, outdated, and lacked storage and counter space.
Modern Farmhouse
A 1925 four-square home in the Macalester-Groveland neighborhood undergoes a remodel. Installed are blue kitchen cabinets and stainless steel appliances, creating a very handsome kitchen.
Reimagined Living
Although the footprint is the same, it feels like a brand new kitchen. In the room adjacent, a new mudroom for this family of four.
Minimalist Masterpiece
A mid-century modern kitchen design with an emphasis on beauty and functionality.
New Space with an Old Soul
Renovation enhances livability but preserves character of 1914 home in St. Paul.
