PROBLEMS: The Gladstone homeowners lived with the cheap white laminate “European” kitchen that previous owners had remodeled. There were other problems, including a dropped fluorescent ceiling, white laminate countertops, vinyl flooring, and a wood-burning brick fireplace that was too messy to use. The layout was affected by two doorways between the dining room and kitchen — one of them dangerously blocked by an open oven door. The homeowners had dreamed of having a functional and beautiful Japanese-style kitchen for several years.

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS: The dropped ceiling was removed, and one of the doorways to the dining room became a pass-through. More space was added between countertops, so the aisles were safer. New stainless steel appliances, including a glass island hood, and new custom beech cabinets with horizontal grain make a big difference in the appearance. Storage accessories allow every inch of cabinets to be functional. There’s a new contemporary gas fireplace, and the brick was covered with drywall. The Homeowners chose engineered stone countertops with a glass-mosaic full-height backsplash to complement the cabinets. A custom table that easily seats six is attached to the back of the island, making daily meals and entertaining more fun for everyone.

TESTIMONIAL: We had a typical ’80s kitchen with dropped ceiling, European cabinets, fluorescent lights and cramped layout. We had no idea how to fix it, so we hired Diane. We chose her for her training, talent and experience, but we got so much more. She is insightful, caring and thorough. Remodeling can be very stressful, but she helped us through every step. We love our new kitchen! It’s open, beautiful and delightful to work in.