As interior designers, we love a good transformation, and this kitchen was ready for a major refresh. While the original space had plenty of square footage and great potential, it felt weighed down by dark cabinetry, outdated finishes, and a layout that lacked the wow factor. Our goal? To bring in a fresh, modern, and inviting aesthetic while enhancing the functionality of the space.
Let’s take a closer look at this stunning before-and-after journey!
Before: Dark, Heavy, and Outdated
The original kitchen had classic elements, but it was in need of a serious update. The dark cherry wood cabinetry, ornate moldings, and brown-toned tile backsplash made the space feel overly warm and visually heavy. The speckled granite countertops added to the dated feel, and the beige floor tiles didn’t do much to elevate the overall look.
The kitchen was also relatively closed off from the adjacent dining room. It had a large but disfunctional pantry that we removed to create one seamless space, from the front to the back of the house. (The bulky pantry is to the left of the photo below.)
The appliances, though functional, were not integrated seamlessly into the design, and the overall flow of the space didn’t feel as polished as it could be. The peninsula also cut the kitchen akwardly in half.
Our clients wanted a kitchen that felt fresh, stylish, and timeless—something that blended warmth with modern sophistication. With that vision in mind, we got to work!
After: A Sleek, Sophisticated, and Inviting Space
What a transformation! The new modern kitchen is nothing short of breathtaking, blending warm wood tones with bold black cabinetry for a perfectly balanced and contemporary look.
Here’s what we did:
Two-Tone Cabinetry for Depth & Contrast – We swapped out the dark cherry cabinets for a fresh combination of light natural wood and matte black. The upper cabinets in a warm, natural wood tone keep the space feeling light and airy, while the dramatic black lower cabinets and island add a bold, sophisticated touch. We also took the cabinets up to the ceiling for a seamless look.
New Countertops with a Luxe Feel – The old, busy granite has been replaced with stunning, high-contrast stone that brings a modern yet timeless elegance to the space. The veining in the countertops adds movement and visual interest.
Statement Lighting to Elevate the Look – The outdated light fixtures are gone, replaced with sleek, glass pendants featuring gold and black accents. These lights add warmth and sophistication while tying together the new color palette.
Modern Hardware & Fixtures – Gold and black cabinet pulls complement the cabinetry, adding a touch of luxury. A bold black faucet completes the look, making the sink area a striking focal point.
A Stunning Custom Range Hood – The new black range hood is an absolute showstopper! Its bold design, framed by the warm wood cabinets, brings a beautiful contrast to the kitchen and serves as a statement piece above the stovetop.
A Fresh, Textured Backsplash – The old brown tile backsplash is gone! In its place, we added a clean, subtle white tile that reflects light and keeps the space feeling fresh and open.
High-Functioning Appliances & Smart Storage – We upgraded the appliances and incorporated more functional storage solutions, including a built-in microwave and better-organized cabinetry for a sleek, clutter-free look.
A Luxe Coffe Bar Area for Entertaining – One of our favorite additions to this kitchen is the custom bar area.
Featuring deep black cabinetry, open wood shelving, and a dramatic herringbone tile backsplash, it’s the perfect spot for entertaining and adds a touch of personality to the space.
The Final Look: A Kitchen That Feels Like Home
The result? A modern kitchen that feels fresh, stylish, and incredibly functional. The mix of bold black cabinetry with warm wood tones strikes the perfect balance between modern and inviting. The upgraded materials, sleek finishes, and well-thought-out design elements create a space that is both beautiful and practical.
This renovation proves that bold choices can lead to incredible results. The new kitchen isn’t just a place for cooking—it’s a space for gathering, entertaining, and making lasting memories.
What’s your favorite part of this transformation? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Sam
| 4 October 2025Wow, what an amazing transformation! The before-and-after photos really show how much impact thoughtful design can have on a space. I love the combination of warm wood with bold black cabinetry, it strikes the perfect balance of modern and inviting. The coffee bar addition is such a clever touch too, making the kitchen even more functional for entertaining. It’s clear how much detail and care a skilled wood carpenter and designer bring to a project like this!