THE GALLEY
The 20 year-old original kitchen had lived a full life and both aesthetically and functionally left a lot to be desired. It has now been transformed from livable into a luxurious, chic, stylish and expansive space.
THE CONCEPT
The homeowner’s desire for a warm, inviting, yet clean and serene atmosphere was the driving force in the overall aesthetic of the design. Their interest in Scandinavian design and high-end finishes was considered throughout the whole process. However, it was the form and function of the kitchen that need to be addressed first.
THE PLAN
Exploring the possibility of widening the opening of the galley kitchen to the front of the home was key in creating more connection between the kitchen and the rest of the home. It wasn’t possible to create a fully open concept in this townhome, given the loadbearing wall through the center of the main floor, which also housed plumbing, electrical and hvac that needed to stay in place. However, by reworking some of these services within the angled wall on the side of the kitchen, closest to the front foyer, it allowed for a more expansive and welcoming entry point into the kitchen.
THE BEFORE
Before the renovation this kitchen and dinning was closed off from the rest of the living space and quite dark.
THE DESIGN SELECTIONS
The Scandinavian feel was the goal for this main floor renovation.
IN THE DETAILS
With the addition of the peninsula, the dining table set could be eliminated, which allows for more open circulation by the backyard door. With this extra space, it provided opportunity to add a full height pantry cabinetry and a built-in storage bench, under the side window.
THE DESIGN
The relocation of the fridge creates an improved workflow and the custom hood fan flanked between the appliance garage cabinets adds a custom architectural detail that works together with all the other design elements to bring this from a lacklustre galley style kitchen to The Galley of all galley’s.
OUR NICHE
This bar has a big presence and was seamlessly integrated. Strategically positioned in a corner that adjoins a winding staircase, this bar maximizes an underutilized area behind the wall. By ingeniously sinking the fridge into the wall cavity and employing custom shallow cabinets, the design optimizes functionality while maintaining an open circulation space.
The bar features a blend of open and closed storage solutions. Wine bottle cubbies and a small open shelf provide easy access and a touch of elegance, while closed cabinets offer ample storage for other essentials. Specialty door mechanisms, such as awning-style hinges on the cabinet above the shelf, ensure smooth access while enhancing the bar's sleek appearance.
Even with limited space, creative design solutions can bring your dream bar to life, catering to your unique needs and lifestyle.
THE FINALE
Closing in the pass-through opening above the existing sink location created a more intentional and comfortable use of space. The custom white oak-look open shelving, beautiful hand-crafted herringbone backsplash tiles, champagne bronze faucet and white silgranite sink replaced what was once a undesirable workspace. By closing in this pass-though, it also allowed us to expand the opening between the exterior back wall of the house and the sink wall, creating a much larger visual and physical connection point between the kitchen and living room.
