Who would have imagined we’d be without a functioning kitchen for nearly four months? We certainly didn’t—but it’s finally back, and better than we hoped. The renovation was a long process, but the results speak for themselves.
Here’s a reminder of the kitchen that came with the house when we bought it almost two years ago:
Now for the dramatic transformation we promised. The new granite countertops became the finishing touch that tied the whole room together. Below is a view of the entire kitchen as seen from the living and dining area; you can see how the layout opens up and connects to the rest of the home.
On the left side we installed a sleek range hood that not only looks great but performs well while cooking. After months of takeout and limited stovetop use, it felt incredible to make dinner at home again. The new hood provides efficient ventilation and a modern focal point for the cooking area.
The right side of the kitchen features stainless steel appliances: a dishwasher, refrigerator, and a microwave that sit neatly within the cabinetry. These appliances balance form and function and complement the overall design. While we might still occasionally overcook something, at least we can do it in style.
One of the small but ingenious additions is the microwave nook tucked into a corner of the kitchen. We originally considered leaving that corner open, but our designer convinced us that thoughtful storage makes the kitchen more usable and prevents clutter from spilling onto the counters. The nook feels intentional and keeps the microwave accessible without dominating the workspace.
My favorite corner has several charming details that make the room feel finished. A cabinet with a glass door visually opens the space and displays select items, creating a lighter, less boxed-in feel. That small design choice adds personality and breaks up what could otherwise be a heavy run of cabinetry.
For practical storage, we included a built-in double-tiered lazy Susan in the base cabinet. It significantly increases usable storage in an otherwise awkward corner, making it easy to access pots, pans, and pantry items without losing anything to the depths of the cupboard.
No kitchen is complete without a few finishing touches. We chose a brushed nickel faucet that complements the stainless appliances and tones of the granite. The undermount sink maintains clean lines across the countertop and makes wiping crumbs and spills into the sink effortless—both practical and elegant.
We hope the wait was worthwhile for our readers. This remodel focused on merging functionality with a timeless aesthetic, and we’re delighted with how the space performs day to day. We’d love to hear your thoughts—what feature would you prioritize in a kitchen renovation?