Expansive Kitchen with Large Island

A Chef’s Paradise

Expansive kitchen layout with a large island and amenities fit for a chef.

Long-time clients returned to transform their early 2000s production home into something truly special. Originally lacking high-end finishes like detailed millwork, windows, and trim, the home now shines with updated touches. Our goal was to create a spacious, open kitchen. To do so, we removed a wall between the existing kitchen and dining area, and reimagined the layout. The new expansive kitchen with large island serves as the centerpiece of the home. Complementing it, a cozy new dining space, and a refreshed family room.

17-Foot Island with Seating for Eight

This single-wall kitchen with an expansive island creates an efficient, open layout. Ideal for the homeowner who hosts cooking classes and bakes for school events. The setup keeps everything accessible while offering ample prep and gathering space. A powerful kitchen hood, paired with an air system in the basement, provides top-notch ventilation to keep the space fresh and comfortable.

Move the slider to reveal the transformation.

Creating an Expansive, Open Kitchen

Here, you can see the wall we removed between the existing kitchen and dining room. This change allowed us to incorporate the old dining room into the expanded kitchen, while the former sitting room was repurposed as the new dining area. We creatively relocated plumbing lines in the original wall to fully open up the first floor, nearly doubling the kitchen’s size.

A new layout allows for a larger island and
connects the kitchen to the dining room.

The large first-floor layout felt cavernous yet disconnected, with a small, awkwardly placed island, a pantry tucked into the corner, and a cramped kitchen nook squeezed in front of the bay windows. The dining room sat around the corner, separated from the kitchen.

We expanded the kitchen into the dining room and relocated the dining area to the former sitting room, creating a natural flow into the family room just off the kitchen.

Two-Toned Cabinetry for a Striking Contrast

The kitchen features two styles of cabinets: Dorian Grey and Walnut Stain, elegantly framed by class cove crown molding. The breakfast bar showcases this beautiful blend of cabinetry, complemented by a white small-format hex tile backsplash and a sleek countertop.

One of two custom kettle faucets—one by the stove and the other at the coffee bar—adds extra functionality to this kitchen. Under-cabinet lighting with a hidden power strip keeps things bright and tidy. The windows along the backsplash were kept for natural light. To avoid a direct view into the neighbor’s house, we added privacy glass.

Double-Sided Island Storage

Maximizing every inch of this 17-foot island, the double-sided design makes smart use of space. On the working side, you’ll find custom cabinetry solutions, an under-cabinet microwave, a dishwasher, and plenty of storage. On the seating side, there’s even more storage—perfect for keeping things organized while maintaining a clean, sleek look.

Bright, Cozy, and Refined

Adjacent to the kitchen, the family room receives a refreshing update. We added recessed can lighting for a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Also, installed new millwork on the windows for a polished look. Additionally, we refaced the fireplace with marble, added a new hearth, and installed a classic wood mantel—adding warmth and elegance to the space.

Intimate Dining Room

Sit back, enjoy each other’s company, and grab a bottle of wine! This dining room is designed for relaxed gatherings, offering a warm and inviting space where good conversation and great meals come together.

An expansive main level that feels connected and purposeful, with a chef’s kitchen and large island as the heart of the home. Next we head to the lower-level, to craft the perfect escape.


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