Craftsman Country Kitchen, Maplewood

KITCHEN PROBLEMS:

The aged early 1920s mostly original kitchen had many problems: refrigerator in the Butler's Pantry, no working exhaust over the range, cracking formica countertops, quite short space (11" vs the standard 18") below the one wall cabinet, lack of storage, cold and drafty.

KITCHEN SOLUTIONS:

Working within the existing footprint, we created a more functional layout by rearranging cabinets and appliances. We modernized and maximized storage, counter space and work flow all without sacrificing vintage charm. The range was relocated to an exterior wall between two windows to provide prep and work counters on either side. The side window was raised up to allow for the sink, dishwasher and cabinetry to be installed there. A counter depth refrigerator anchors the third side of the U-shaped layout. A shallow depth furniture-style microwave hutch with bracket supports and beadboard "backsplash" was installed in a narrow space between the door openings to the hall and Butler's Pantry. The Butler’s Pantry now houses a tall pull-out food pantry and butcher block wood countertop for serving but, alas, no butler.

Style selections were made in the spirit of the home’s era: Shaker cabinetry with crown molding and oil rubbed bronze pull handles, vintage style dark bronze outlet covers, farmhouse sink, vintage style pull-out spray faucet, 3x6 subway tile in a herringbone pattern (aka "nested L") and hardwood floor. The rustic barn red of the lower cabinets pairs well with the warm white of the upper cabinets and the taupe backsplash tile. Modern upgrades include LED recessed lighting on dimmers, undercabinet LED task lighting, Energy Star appliances, marble look engineered stone counters and improved insulation in the exterior walls and crawl space below the kitchen. And every kitchen benefits from cabinet accessories that keep counters decluttered and supplies organized: a pull-out utensil organizer, pull-out trash and recycling bins, roll-out cabinet shelves, corner spin shelves, tray and cutting board storage and drawer dividers for knives and cutlery.

SIZE: 160 SF (120 Kitchen + 40 Butler's Pantry)

General Contractor: Michael Meza Home Renovation LLC