BEFORE
This kitchen in Vashon, WA saw its last major remodel at the beginning of the open concept craze of the 1980s – clearly evident from the telltale honey oak cabinetry, high-gloss floors and dated tile backsplash. An awkward wall forced one of the peninsulas into a bizarre, crooked angle, creating a serious interruption to workflow. The real tragedy of the outdated space, though, was that its strange angles and overwhelming yellow-orange tones detracted from the grand view showcased by a bank of windows on the west wall.
AFTER
Designer Angie Harpole of Harpole Home drew inspiration from the outside view when choosing materials for the remodeled kitchen, selecting natural finishes to allow the beautiful vista to be the star of the space. An arabescato quartz countertop by Architectural Surfaces, combined with flat front cabinetry from Sound Woodworks, creates a refreshingly modern yet neutral backdrop for the view. Because another of the priorities for this remodel was to give the homeowner’s collection of handmade pottery a place to shine, the designer incorporated floating shelving against a full-height ceramic tile backsplash.
By rethinking the configuration of appliances, a more functional work triangle was created. Additionally, the awkward wall was removed, allowing for the installation of an island, which also boasts a microwave drawer to enhance the functionality of the space.
