Better In Blue Park Ridge

I can't believe how long it's been since we've blogged! WAY TOO LONG!
Well, we are back on it and happy to share some projects in various stages. This project, "Better in Blue" is completed and while we don't have finished photos yet, here are some that are close.
In this project, the goal was to create a modern kitchen that fit with the aesthetic of the owner as well as maximizing storage and light. We reduced the size of the existing window to add storage space. We also pushed a pulled walls to allow for a wall of cabinetry and enough room for an island.
Opening up a the wall between the Kitchen and Dining Room greatly increased the relationship between the 2 rooms. Minimal cabinet hardware was used to keep it sleek while 2 tones of blues adds detail to the flat slab cabinetry. New stainless appliances enhance the look and using a 42" hood over the 36 inch range allows the tile backsplash to have more impact in the space.
The transformation is amazing and unique. Great projects come from having a great team. This project is a true example of this. Patience, perseverance and a willingness to be bold and exciting. We truly appreciated working with these incredible owners.

Before Pic of Kitchen.

Who's that guy hiding behind the island!? Oh, he's sealing the floors.

We pulled the volume of the kitchen box out into the hallway. Instead of hiding this move, we decided to accentuate it by using tongue and groove white oak boards to wrap the space and pull it into the kitchen. The owner decided to replace the existing cork flooring during the project when it was clear the sun bleached floor could not be sanded. New gray stone tile makes it's way to the entry, lines the front of the fireplace hearth and moves into the new kitchen.

 A new bathroom was a priority. We still wanted to use fun color and rich materials in the new bathroom. Wrapping walnut cabinetry around a new medicine cabinet maximized storage space and a long sink with 2 faucets will hopefully keep shoving to a minimum between family members getting ready for school.

Before pic of bathroom

Before the handles were installed.

Park Ridge Modern: Kitchen and Bath Renovation

While the Basement of the "Tiki Project" has been put on hold, we've been asked to design the kitchen and first floor bathroom renovation of the same home in Park Ridge. This small and unique single story 50's modern home was designed and built by the grandparents of the current owner and maintains the original character.
While materials have not been finalized, tones and concepts are being explored while the pricing stage occurs.
Initially we thought walnut would work for the cabinetry, but after exploring the project in 3d computer renderings, we were attracted to a painted flat front modern cabinet design. The cabinetry would have 2 tones and reflect a 50s modern blue.
Currently we are showing a cement tile floor although we are exploring many pattern and tone options.  If we go for pattern on the floor, we'll most likely look at a simpler backsplash tile. With a simpler floor, we'd probably be recommending more pattern and detail with the backsplash.  We like to explore all these options.
A major move in the kitchen will be opening it up to the Dining area. Having the large rear windows in view will allow us to reduce the size of the kitchen window and provide more upper cabinets.
Another significant move is shifting the north wall of the kitchen out about 9 inches from the current wall. We then will line that wall with full cabinetry that protrudes 9 inches into the kitchen, giving us 18 inch deep cabinetry where previously there was only a small in-wall cabinet. This essentially doubles the storage in the kitchen.
The new island will not have seating at it since the Dining Room is directly adjacent and maximizing storage is critical.
Outside the kitchen, we intend to line the walls with 4 inch white oak tongue and groove planks. The light wood echoes the tones of the fireplace and blends nicely with the existing cork flooring.