In this project, we traveled to Boston’s South End to transform a dated, compartmentalized kitchen into a warm and functional space for everyday family living and entertaining.

Originally, the kitchen featured painted wood cabinetry, a tight layout, and a bay window that not only lost heat but also took up valuable space on the outdoor deck it faced. The relationship between the kitchen, pantry, and powder room also felt fragmented, in part due to a bulky soffit that visually broke up the space.

Our redesign focused on improving flow and access throughout the home. Moving the island and refrigerator helped open up the kitchen, while relocating powder room access to the living area created a more natural circulation pattern. The bay window was replaced with a Marvin slider, improving both connection to the deck and increasing usable outdoor space.

Design-wise, the new kitchen cabinetry brings a calming presence in Benjamin Moore’s Santorini Blue. Continuing the cabinet color to the ceiling helped accentuate the height of the space. Unlacquered brass hardware and lighting add warmth and character over time, while contrasting beautifully with quartzite countertops. A textured backsplash with varied tile sizes adds subtle depth and movement. The original flooring was retained, with surrounding design choices helping to balance its warmer, reddish undertones.

The powder room was also refreshed and relocated. A wallpaper featuring a subtle nod to the Boston skyline introduces a personal storytelling element. We repurposed the original doors in this space and selected a console sink to keep the smaller footprint feeling more open. This renovation created a cohesive, highly functional home that feels connected and intentional, reflecting the value of thoughtful design that supports the rhythms of daily life.