Hello!
So glad you are here, I had a beautiful busy, and fulfilling 2 months of renovating and turning our new house into our dream home.
After searching for 3-4 months and visiting over 20 homes, we finally found the perfect fit for our growing family. Finding a home with architectural character that we could update while preserving its authentic beauty became our mission.
Here is a reel of us doing the empty house, if you are curious about the BEFORE > VIDEO TOUR HERE
This was all new to me, getting out of my comfort zone. I have never shared everything on the fly!
And though I didn't know how it would all go, I started to document my vision, wishes... Even before starting the full update, I started to share my plans HERE. Not knowing if all those would be possible or on time!
Now that we moved into the house in late September, and settled in; it is time to pause and chat on the progress, process, and things we did.
The moment I entered this home, I fell in love with the arched window. Wanted to turn that into a focal point as it deserves. Also, our family likes to spend time in the kitchen a big wide island that is for entertainment was a key to have.
To ensure a timely move and manage our budget effectively, I had to make some design decisions accommodating things that can bring us to a Sept-Oct move date while keeping the budget. For example, I had to opt-in to pre-made cabinets to reach our 8-week goal; since custom cabinet leads are 14-16 weeks.
I had to decide fast and I focused on the design flare to bring dynamism and elegance through accents, tile, and fixtures and hoped for a white timeless style.
Now, let's delve into the scope of our phase one renovation.
As the heart of any home, our kitchen holds a special place in our hearts. We spend 90% of our time gathered around the island, whether it's eating, chatting, or playing with the kids.
Here's the list of 10 updates we did during the 10 weeks:
Layout: We're planning to revamp the layout by removing the existing corner with the electrical range and replacing it with a large island. This will create a space where our family can make lasting memories. Adding some beautiful pendant lights will enhance the ambiance.
Focal Point: The arch window overlooking the backyard, surrounded by lush trees, will be the focal point of our kitchen. To highlight this serene connection to nature, I'll remove the upper cabinets on the sides for a cleaner look.
Neutral White Cabinets: We've chosen crisp white shaker-style cabinets for their timeless appeal. While we initially desired a warmer tone of white, I had to prioritize lead times to complete the renovations in 7-8 weeks. This was a tough decision, as custom cabinets would have allowed us to incorporate all our specific needs, but they typically require 13-14 weeks.
Unique Touches with Tiling: To add texture and authenticity, we're incorporating Zellige backsplash tiles from Morocco. I absolutely love the character they bring to the space. Additionally, we'll install open shelves at the end of the backsplash to showcase decorative items.
Custom Island: Our kitchen will feature a large custom-made island that will introduce wood tones, creating a captivating dual-color look. This addition will infuse warmth and visual interest into the space. Currently, I'm still on the hunt for the perfect design, so keep your fingers crossed!
Appliances: We're aiming for a seamless aesthetic by choosing Café appliances from GE. The white finish with brass handles will complement the overall design. Here are the selections: Cafe Range, Cafe Dishwasher, and Fridge.
Sink and Faucet: Since the sink and faucet will complement the focal point of the arched window, I've opted for a modernized, clean-cut farmhouse sink and a bridge-type faucet with built-in 'pull-down' functionality. My husband, who is the primary cook in our home, insisted on the pull-down feature, and I happily obliged.
8. Hood: For the hood, we're leaning toward a clean, modern curved design. Perhaps we'll even add a plaster paint finish to enhance its appeal. I'll need to convince our general contractor, but I'm up for the challenge! :)
9. Planning for the Right Lighting: This room was lacking light, including a natural one! So I had to make diligent planning to make sure we had a good layer of lighting. First, we added recess lighting as the general lighting. Then, as the task lights, we added both (1) island pendants which also added warmth with a light wood tone and (2) sconces above the sink. Lastly to have ambient light, and set the mood when we don't need too much, we added under-cabinet lighting. The perfect combination of designer feel to set the mood.
10. Arched entryway: I wanted to open up the space to the dining room and bridge the arched entryway from the family room to the dining room with the door to the kitchen. So I designed an arched entryway, and ditched the door! It immediately brought a calm, less busy yet smooth feel from the kitchen to the dining space.
And if you have missed it, here is the blog post I recapped my design hints to de-clutter the kitchen, and a few practical ideas:
Small Appliances Garage: Easy Access Over the Counter using them for breakfast small appliances.
Hiding the microwave on the island with Drawer type one!
Adding pull-out special cabinet shelf for a hidden coffee station.
Shop the selections!
If you want to shop the selections, fixtures, finishes, and decor picks, check out our LTK here for Kitchen Selections: LTK Neutral Kitchen Picks
In our next post, I will discuss the living room and sunroom, so stay tuned for more updates on our home renovation journey.
I am excited to share our progress with you as we transform this house into our dream home! If you're looking for organic modern design inspiration, kitchen renovation ideas, or insights from an Atlanta interior designer, you've come to the right place.
And if you are starting your journey of renovation, and looking for quick tips, check out this post where I spilled all the learnings I had through this process.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you want to re-dream your space with me!
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And as always, thank you for being here, in my little corner!
Love,
Burcu
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