We’re thrilled to share this kitchen & bath project today, as it has been a long time coming. We’ve said it before, and it still remains true today… there is no greater compliment when a friend invites you into their home to work your magic. So when my friend turned client, Jen, asked me to help out was so honored. I’m big on “moments of gratitude” and this is for sure one of them.
When Jen bought this condo, we had some big plans! It is a beautiful building, awesome floorplan, and just a jump to Forest Park. This would be a perfect fit for her and her boys. But oh lordy did it need some love! Our overall goals for the space were to update the condo throughout. A modernized kitchen with more practical access to the family room. Additionally, taking an underutilized closet/playspace and creating a sleek master bath. The more minor projects including giving the family room, and both bedrooms cosmetic updates. We'll share those soon!
While the kitchen layout was functional, it desperately needed an update! Can we take a moment to appreciate the awesomeness that is the laminate trim on the upper cabinets? That’s a style choice you don’t see very often! Long story short, it all had to go!
Our biggest goal here was to create a true "cook's kitchen" within the constraints of a city space. It was important to incorporate Jen's love of modern lighting so we went with timeless shaker cabinetry and incorporated modern elements throughout. What you can't see here is the arched doorway we added to the opposite side of this kitchen that allow entry to the heart of the home. The kitchen is now open, the Jen isn't left slaving away from her guests.
paper towel island
While the layout of the kitchen was functional and needed no real re-working, we did want to add a small island for additional storage, prep & serving space. We're both visual and need to see how that small island would look and feel in the space. Thanks Bounty! Now that Jen is living and working in that kitchen, it has proven to be an invaluable addition.
The budget priorities went to lighting and top of line appliances for the chef. We countered that with a budget friendly backsplash in large format subway tile, and sueded black pearl granite countertops. While being one of the more affordable granite options, the matte and textured finish lends itself to preserving the natural characteristics of the stone. I LOVE the matte finish on this.
This little breakfast nook is one of our favorite elements of the space, and it absolutely had to stay. We couldn't seem to escape the laminate here either, and quickly replaced it with butcher block. The vintage bin pull on the drawer makes me melt every time I see it.
Now on to the bathroom. Upon purchase, this condo only had one bathroom. With two growing boys, Jen had an additional bathroom HIGH on the priority list. One that she could have all to herself. In a two-bedroom condo, there is only so much space to work with especially when you’re adding a whole new bathroom. We found the perfect space in what was was previously used as a small toy room.
Beautiful & functional was our M-O. We went with bright and white to make the space appear bigger than it actually was, using the same Carrara marble in varying formats from large hex, to penny hex, and finishing up with 3x6 shower walls. There are days that I would cover every surface in marble if someone would let me.
We’d like to say mission accomplished! This mama has her own oasis away from the goings on of a tween boy bathroom, and a place to call her own. This isn't the only project in Jen's condo, so we'll share more along the way. We're swooning over the fireplace that is almost complete!
To see more pics of this kitchen & bath renovation head over to the project on our portfolio page!
