From Cramped to Contemporary: A Norfolk Kitchen Transformation

August 18th, 2024

Andrea Picardi, Marketing Director

At McDrake Remodeling, we love taking spaces that no longer work for modern families and transforming them into places where memories are made. Recently, we tackled a unique kitchen: a cramped, French Provincial-inspired kitchen that needed a serious update. By blending thoughtful design, innovative materials, and a focus on functionality, we created a sleek, modern kitchen with beautiful copper accents. Here’s how we turned this dated space into a dream kitchen for our clients.

Breaking Down Walls—Literally

The original kitchen was separated from the dining area by a wall, creating a closed-off, narrow feel. To create an open-concept layout, we removed the wall and reimagined the flow of the space. Now, the kitchen seamlessly connects to the dining area, providing plenty of room for entertaining and making family dinners more enjoyable.

Before

After

Gorgeous Gray Subway Tile Backsplash

For the backsplash, we selected timeless gray subway tiles—a perfect mix of classic and trendy. These tiles add texture and depth, complementing the copper accents while maintaining a sleek, cohesive look. The backsplash extends behind the cooktop, where we installed a stunning pot filler for both style and convenience.

Copper Accents that Shine

Copper hardware, light fixtures, and a custom pot filler bring a sense of luxury and warmth to the space. These accents stand out against the clean lines of the kitchen while harmonizing with the other design elements for a polished, modern aesthetic.

Lighting the Way

Lighting plays a key role in any kitchen design. We added recessed lighting to highlight the kitchen’s new features and combined it with the natural light flooding in from the window over the sink. The result is a bright, inviting space. Modern copper pendant lights above the kitchen island bring a touch of warmth and elegance, tying the design together beautifully.

Granite Countertops for Texture and Function

We replaced the outdated countertops with stunning granite. The natural stone not only enhances the overall look of the kitchen but also offers plenty of space for food preparation and storage. Its durability and timeless appeal make it a practical and stylish choice.

Beautiful and Durable Flooring

We chose REALTA® SPC by Mannington in Patina Ash for the flooring. This waterproof flooring not only looks stunning with its rich tones but also offers superior indentation resistance, making it ideal for a high-traffic area like the kitchen. It’s durable, easy to clean, and provides excellent value—perfect for busy households.

Before

After

Custom Storage Solutions

Storage was a major concern in the old kitchen, so we added a custom cabinet that doubles as a coffee bar. This feature not only provides additional storage but also creates a dedicated space for the homeowners to enjoy their morning routine.

A Space to Love for Years to Come

What was once a cramped, French Provincial-inspired kitchen is now an open, modern space that the homeowners will enjoy for years. By opening up the floor plan, incorporating high-quality materials, and adding thoughtful details like custom storage and copper accents, we’ve created a kitchen that’s as functional as it is beautiful.