From Cramped Quarters to Open Concept: The Story of My Kitchen Remodel

After six years of plotting I took the plunge and started a kitchen remodel. Below is my story.

Here's the "before" shot (it's a beauty.)  Originally this entire space (including the area I'm standing) included the cooking area, breakfast nook, a small TV room (across from the cooking area) and a dining room (across from the breakfast nook).  All these rooms added up to many sliding doors and separated spaces - too many in my opinion. 

So we knocked out the wall between the TV room and dining room to create one large dining area filled with one very large table.  The last step in this journey is to remove the wall (below) and create an open, airy space which allows for easy flow of guests and occupants alike.

"Before" shows 2 separate sections for cooking and a small, fairly unusable breakfast nook on the right side. The "after" photo shows the removal of that center console. Big difference!

Regarding dinner parties, it's often observed that everyone gathers in the kitchen, particularly in the smallest area (the "cooking area"). Once the renovation is finished, people will likely continue to congregate there, but at least there will be enough space for everyone, including me, the cook, to move around freely.

The photo below displays the demolished kitchen, where the older, yet well-crafted cabinets remain. The range (which has been in the garage for nearly 4 years) and hood occupy the old central space.

Then, we (as if I'm actually doing the work) cover all surfaces with beautiful granite and resurface the floors with new tile.  Stay tuned and I'll be sure to post a few recipes as I venture into the world of microwave cuisine.  I know, I know, cue the violinists so everyone can feel sorry for me!

Demo done, ready for progress!

 All kidding aside, I am excited to see the results and I'm sure I'll wonder why it took me six years to get this project off the ground (oh yeah...money.)