Toano Project Reveal | the Kitchen

Like a lot of people, my Toano project clients found that after months of being home due to Covid precautions, they were ready to do something different with their space! Having spent hours online, looking at various designs, they had a lot of great ideas when they approached us in the spring of 2021 to help with the design and renovation of their kitchen, guest bath and master bath. Partnering with Van Fleet contractors, we were able to transform what was a nice but dated space into something new and fresh!

Today, we are walking you through the “before” and “after” of the Toano Project kitchen reveal! I have to say, that this reveal is probably our most dramatic yet.

THE BEFORE:

In terms of the “before”, there were a lot of good things about this kitchen - the millwork of the cabinets and quality appliances. However, there were a lot of things there weren’t so good - the fan, low lighting, not enough storage, etc. It just felt like things could be better.

Right off the main part of the kitchen is a nice breakfast nook, which we had actually styled for the Joss’ a couple of years back. Since we were planning on renovating though, there were some changes that we knew we would like to make this time around.

THE AFTER:

The inspiration for this kitchen renovation largely came from the desire of the home owner’s desire for a change. Having lived with their previous kitchen for years now, they were ready for something a bit more updated in terms of style and how they use their space.

From the very beginning of the project, we more or less knew the direction that we wanted to take: green painted beadboard cabinets, patterned floor, custom built-ins, etc. However the more we thought about it, the more we leaned with going with white kitchen cabinets. We made this decision for a number of reasons, the main being that our client’s kitchen opens up into the family room and then, into the living room. There is a clear line of sight. The color palette of these rooms (light aqua, off white, tan, and brown) just didn’t lend themselves to the idea of a “pear green” kitchen. If the kitchen had been more closed in (with a door), I would have a said “go for it!” But since, it is so connected to the main living areas, it just didn’t feel right.

Another reason why we felt comfortable going with white kitchen cabinets instead of green is that our tile selection for the floor is so bold. We knew from the very beginning that we wanted to do something fun! After looking at numerous tiles, we landed on this gorgeous black and white tile that leans a little bit Moroccan and a little bit French cafe. While the tile is certainly bold, its not overwhelming. This is largely due to the scale of the print as well as the painted-on effect of the print.

Something that really helps the kitchen cabinets “pop” is the bead-board that we installed on several of the panels. This really gave the kitchen the “feel” that we were going for - new traditional with a nod towards farmhouse and French cafe.

One of the most exciting transformations in this kitchen renovation would have to be the built-in bookcase in the breakfast nook. Using the space white beadboard and black hardware as in the kitchen, it ties in perfectly. Not only does it provide ample, accessible storage but it also really ties in the kitchen nook to the larger space.

Another custom piece that we had made was this window seat along the bay window. Our clients often entertain family and friends and wanted to better utilize the space here. We brought in the beloved green here, with a custom, vinyl seat cushion (perfect for grandchildren!).

We also brought in more seating through the addition of a breakfast bar. We designed this spot for the Joss’ grandchildren in mind, as they are often over visiting. The woven counter stools lend to the look of the kitchen while also function well, as they will wear well over time. The swivel allows them to chat with whoever is in the kitchen or turn and face the TV in the family room.

Looks aside, the functionality of this kitchen renovation was a top priority. As this is our client’s “forever home”, it was important to have features and fixtures that would be of use to them over time. In a lot of the cabinets for example, are pull out drawers, making it easier to get to pots and pans. We also added in more lighting.

The “before” and “after” of this kitchen renovation is one of the most dramatic ones that we have participated in yet… what was once a dark and traditional kitchen is now fresh and filled with light. Despite keeping the same layout (with a few tweaks and changes being made), its hard to recognize this space! It was such an honor helping with the design and renovation of this kitchen, as it is a space that our clients will use and enjoy for years to come in their “forever home”.

INTERIOR DESIGN: Making Room for Peace | PHOTOGRAPHY: Jenna Miller Photography