Kitchen Remodel Fit for a Crowd

Two serious cooks with a pint-size workspace order up a redo that's one part period style, one part party central

By Deborah Baldwin

Cramped, Unfriendly Kitchen: Before

Empty nesters know what they want, and Chuck Hanson and Alicia Randolph, parents of two 20-somethings, are no different. “The whole family likes to cook, and the opportunity to entertain," says Chuck, of the need to rework the congested kitchen in their Seattle Tudor Revival.

Shown: The small, dated cooking zone was not conducive to teamwork or socializing.

High-Functioning Entertaining Magnet: After

So yes, they asked for a pro-style range and a more open, free-flowing layout that would unite prep and gathering space. JAS Design Build worked with the couple to provide for storage and legroom needs, without tearing down walls. “Now every inch counts," says designer Kim Clements, who was mindful of the couple's expertise as physical therapists in designing a compact, ergonomic workspace for two—or more. She chose fewer upper cabinets, widened a passageway, and added a Dutch door to create light-filled noshing and chopping zones. New windows are trimmed to match the home's original 1920s woodwork, and finishes have a warm, period feel. Says Chuck about the now high-functioning space,“It gives us joy every day."

Design, general contractor, cabinets, Dutch door, and island: JAS Design Build, Seattle

Arches for Structural Continuity

Brackets now frame the opening to the dining room to suggest an arch, echoing original arched openings in the house.

Homeowner tip: “To maximize storage and reinforce the kitchen's cottage style, we added an open shelf with brackets that wraps the eating nook and cooking space."

—Chuck Hanson, Seattle

Paint: Farrow & Ball's Lamp Room Gray (cabinets), C2 Paint’s Noodle (door, bench, walls, and trim)

Range: Viking

Refrigerator: KitchenAid