Transforming this West Seattle kitchen from a cramped 64 SF space to a fully useable entertaining size of almost 200 SF has literally changed our client’s use and enjoyment of their home. As the entire home is less than 1000 SF, maximizing use of every square inch was of utmost importance. Where entertaining friends for dinner was almost impossible before, now there is a weekly menu on the wall and friends often arrive for wine tastings and taco Tuesday.
As we designed this space, finding a way to incorporate the chimney stack that ran through the center of the home was a challenge. The new support post needed to be located in that wall and it was really the only place to locate the refrigerator. By moving the sink into the peninsula, we were able to add a full size dishwasher and relocate the gas range on the back wall of the kitchen. The cabinet at the end of the peninsula was designed for a small microwave and we incorporated a bookshelf for recipe books.
The combination of white painted cabinetry and black stone countertops give a simple yet classic update while the stone & glass mosaic backsplash add interest and is perfectly suited for our young urban couple. We were working with a tight budget for construction, and with a good portion being allocated to structure and non aesthetic work, we were careful to incorporate high quality, value oriented products into the project.
The hardwoods in the home were existing, and we were able to successfully patch the floor back in and finish a small area between the new dishwasher and the chimney stack creating a nice savings. The pony wall at the peninsula was raised and finished with a stone top to allow a small separation between
kitchen and dining, as well as allowing the sink / prep area to be hidden from view while dining. And, the new cabinetry in the dining area near the door doubles as pantry storage as well as an area for drinks & appetizers while entertaining. It also successfully brings the kitchen into the dining area creating a much more visually attractive space. This project totally transformed this quaint West Seattle home into a place that allowed the couple to do what
they enjoyed most; preparing healthy meals together and spending time entertaining friends and family.
