In the heart of Des Moines, a turn-of-the-century home has undergone a transformation, culminating in a kitchen that blends its historic charm with modern updates. This successful remodel began with understanding the homeowners' goals: to create a large, functional space with plentiful storage and ample room for entertaining family and friends. To achieve this, we combined the existing kitchen with an adjacent pantry/storage space. From thoughtfully chosen finishes that nod to the past to smart, updated appliances, this kitchen is a testament to timeless design, honoring the home's history while creating a vibrant space perfect for modern living.

We partnered with the design team at Texturious Designs who honored existing finishes, like original trim and hardwood floors, while imagining the heart of the home in an updated space that inspires creativity.  The remodeled kitchen brings a fresh aspect with design elements like crown molding, natural wood tones, the range hood and pendant lighting that tie into the origins of the space.

A favorite design feature in the kitchen is the statement range hood. One of the first selections made by the homeowners, the hood was the inspiration for additional decisions to create a subtle space for the hood to really stand out, including the use of open shelving. In areas with open shelving, we're able to take the tile all the way to the ceiling, turning it into a stunning backdrop. Open shelving also allows homeowners to showcase a few curated pieces to bring warmth and personality into the space.

To keep the kitchen light and fresh, the design team presented a palette of lighter, soft colors and warm wood stains. White perimeter cabinets and the stained island are tied together with counters that pull both white and warmth for the perfect blend. The glossy backsplash tile is a favorite touch because it's subtle and natural enough that you can layer onto it, but it also draws the eye in.

This new kitchen was a combination of two smaller spaces. The large island helped make the new layout make sense, creating balance and symmetry. Functionally, the island provides seating for family and guests to gather, space for cooking and baking, storage for pots, pans and larger baking sheets, as well as an extra-large work space for hobbies and other projects.

The kitchen was designed to maximize space and storage for the family. In addition to the large drawers in the island, there is also a hidden, walk-in pantry. To enhance the flow of the kitchen, frequently used items are stored in the island and perimeter cabinetry, while less used, larger extra items are stored in the hidden pantry. This was a game-changer for the family who transitioned from a smaller kitchen to one that is double the size.

There's also a small drop zone off the kitchen that creates space for shoe and coat storage. A bench with hooks and storage was important to include because it's the clients' main point of entry. Now they have a functional area where they can shed outwear and bags before entering the kitchen.

Inspired by this kitchen transformation? It takes just one call to be on the road to loving YOUR home. Reach out here, or attend one of our free remodeling seminars.

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“What’s it going to cost?” is hands down the most common question we’re asked about remodeling. The true answer is … it depends.

Think about it this way: how much is a new car? You can buy smaller new cars for around $30,000. On the other hand, you can buy a luxury car for $120,000+. So what’s the price of a new car? It really depends on many factors and the same holds true for remodeling. Here are some of the major factors that affect the price of a remodeling project.

Goals – Know your goals so that your remodeler can offer suggestions for getting there. If your goal is to create a spacious, open kitchen, you may need to do an addition. You may also be able to achieve your goal by combining an existing kitchen and a dining room that’s rarely used.

Your Home – Any remodeled space should be commensurate with the rest of your home. If you have a builder grade home, then doing a builder grade basement, for example, is probably ok. If, on the other hand, your home is higher end, you probably want to extend that level of finish throughout the space you are remodeling.

Age of the Home – Older homes, with all their charm, can also increase remodeling costs. Building codes change over time. Homes built prior to 1978 must be remodeled following strict lead-safe procedures. Electrical panels must be brought to code. Older homes are also more likely to reveal “surprises” that can lead to unexpected costs. For example, asbestos containing materials that will be disturbed must be safely removed.

Existing Conditions – Just like no two people are the same, neither are two houses. Some homes are built and maintained better than others and lend themselves more readily to remodeling.

Scope of Work – Are you doing a cosmetic or a custom remodel? Will the remodel be contained to a single area, or will flooring extend throughout an entire floor to create a consistent flow? An addition and a small bath remodel require very different levels of planning and project management, not to mention materials and infrastructure, all of which affect the cost of the project.

Materials – It seems quite logical that higher end materials increase the cost of remodeling, and they do, but it’s incremental. Regardless of the level of materials, two remodeling projects - similar except for the level of materials - still require planning, design, electrical, plumbing, hvac, general labor and project management. Don’t think you’ll spend half as much by using average materials.

You – How close will you stay to your budget? If you have a firm budget, stick with it throughout the planning process (and make sure that your remodeler is sticking with it as well). Beware of the “well if we’re going to do this, then we might as well do that” mentality. A series of seemingly small changes can add up quickly!

Before you even begin meeting with contractors, you can investigate average costs for common remodeling projects in the Des Moines area at costvsvalue.com. Curious about a specific project for your home? Just reach out for a complementary consultation. We’ll help you Love Your Home!

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While it seems that the early 2000s were just a few years ago, it's actually been more than twenty years since we left the 1900s. A lot has changed in 20+ years, including preferences in kitchen finishes, and these homeowners were ready for some upgrades that will take them through the next twenty years.

The homeowners were happy with the kitchen's layout, in general, but wanted new cabinetry to be better suited to how they use the space plus more storage capacity. Because our cabinetry is ordered specifically for each project, we were able to talk through how the homeowners want the kitchen to function. A mix of drawers and cabinets, along with drawer and cabinetry inserts to make the space user-friendly. Taller upper cabinetry allows for more storage and is a better overall use of vertical space.

Our project designer worked with the family to create a warm and inviting space where sleek stainless appliances are juxtaposed against natural wood and stone materials. The remodeled kitchen blends contemporary design elements like white cabinetry and stainless appliances with more rustic elements like the stained island and flooring into the perfect gathering space for family and friends. While the cabinetry and finishes can work with a number of styles, the space has a modern farmhouse vibe that's flooded with natural light.

An existing recessed niche in the dining room was the perfect place for custom built-in cabinetry. While the homeowners chose the same finish and profile that's used in the kitchen, it's perfectly acceptable to change things up. The glass-front cabinetry (most of our cabinetry can be ordered glass-ready) allows the homeowner to display collectable pieces while storing serveware in the base cabinets below. Unlike a furniture piece, the built-in has a durable quartz service for serving buffet style or for using the space as a drink or dessert station.

Stop living in the 1900s and reach out for a complementary remodeling consultation. Let Red House Remodeling help you love your home again! 

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