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Ditch the Formal Seating

White kitchen cabinets with reclaimed wood beam ceiling and metal hoodAs impromptu, low fuss meals and gatherings become the norm, many homeowners are ditching their formal dining areas in favor of eat-in kitchens and expanded living spaces. Given the fact that kitchen is usually the hub of activity, it makes send to remodel the space to accommodate today’s changing lifestyle.

This busy family in Wheaton is always on the go and wanted a casual spot in their kitchen for quick meals or homework in between hockey practices, so they turned to Normandy Designer Kathryn O’Donovan for a solution.

“We decided that a center island with seating was the best option,” said Kathryn “And to allow more space for their growing boys, we utilized a corner of the island for the seats instead of a row along one side,” noted Kathryn. “It also makes it more convenient for socializing and entertaining.”

Kitchen with island and reclaimed wood accents“I was so happy we could design a kitchen that suited this family’s needs and take a little bit of stress out of their hectic schedule,” added Kathryn.

If you are thinking of ditching your formal dining area or contemplating more extensive changes to your kitchen or home, set up a time with Kathryn to talk about the possibilities. You can also learn more about additions, kitchens or other remodeling projects at an upcoming workshop. Check out the photo gallery or follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips and inspiration.

Mid-Century Modern Kitchen (MCM)

Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Remodel, glass chandelier   Mid-Century Modern Kitchen before remodeling

With the rising popularity of all things Mid-Century Modern (MCM), it’s no wonder this homeowner of a 1960’s MCM house was ready to bring her kitchen back to its vintage roots. It didn’t hurt that the kitchen cabinetry and fixtures were outdated and the layout didn’t function well either.

“We focused on the layout first,” said Normandy Designer Laura Barber. “While we didn’t change the footprint, we moved the sink, range and refrigerator to different areas of the kitchen to better suit her needs,” noted Laura.  “The sink is now on its own wall with the dishwasher and cabinets are within arm’s reach. The range now has its own space surrounded by storage for cooking supplies.”

She also wanted a space for a quick meal or a place for her teenage daughter to hang out and chat during meal prep. In order to do that, we opened up the wall between the kitchen and family room and moved the peninsula from the central work zone to the other side, creating an attractive divider leading into the family room.

Eating Area, patterned tile back splashThe aesthetic was a no brainier and looks like it was made for this kitchen. The homeowner had so much fun picking out her new kitchen features. When she saw the light fixture she could envision it above her dining table and she knew the tile backsplash would complement the dark textured cabinets and sleek hardware.

Wall between Kitchen and Family room“I was so happy we could bring her kitchen back to its roots and create something this homeowner could be proud of every day,” added Laura.

If you are thinking of remodeling your kitchen or more extensive changes to your home, set up a time with Laura to talk about the possibilities. You can also learn more about additions, kitchens or other remodeling projects at an upcoming workshop. Check out the photo gallery or follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips and inspiration.

Dark textured cabinets, sleek hardware, stainless range and hood   Tall cabinets, no counter space

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