It’s time for another update on our galley kitchen remodel. For anyone who enjoys seeing the in-between stages and progress posts, this update is for you. It’s messy at the moment — the early stages of a remodel always look worse before they look better — so brace yourself: it’s a little scary right now.
Contractors have been updating the electrical, which is an important and exciting step, but not a pretty one. It’s extremely dusty. Despite efforts to seal the work area, dust has spread through the house and settled in every room. It’s everywhere, as you can see in some of the photos.
Beyond the dust, the house feels chaotic despite our attempts to stay organized. Light fixtures sit in boxes, the new faucet and sink are on the floor, pet gates block the work area, and even a garbage disposal ended up on the mantel. Typical renovation clutter, but it does add to the disorder.
The mess and disruption are among the hardest parts of remodeling for me, along with the stress of having workers in the house, making big decisions, and writing the checks. Still, this is a very exciting time — it’s a rare and fun opportunity to make a major transformation to our home.
There is something more visually inspiring than dust to share today: the initial framing for two new archways into the kitchen. Seeing the arch shapes framed in makes it much easier to visualize the final result. The framing shows the curve clearly — the finished arches will be clean and simple.
I’m especially excited now that I can see how the arches will look and feel. Although the doorways couldn’t be widened much because of the kitchen layout, the arched openings already change the way the space reads. They make the rooms feel taller, softer, and more inviting.
There’s something romantic about an arch. I can already picture how they’ll draw you toward the kitchen and add charm to the space.
Remember, once cabinets and appliances are reinstalled, this will remain a compact U-shaped galley kitchen. We’re adding character, more storage and counter space, and all-new appliances, while keeping the basic layout intact.
You’ll be able to look through one arch from the hall and see the new Dutch door in the kitchen. I’m already picturing a little happy dance when that’s in place.
Notice the new framing in front of one wall. It’s a simple adjustment to straighten the surface where it previously jutted in a few inches, so the new range and cabinets will sit flush and line up neatly.
I haven’t revealed everything yet: there will be an unexpected design feature on that straightened wall that I’m very excited about. It’s due to be installed soon, and I can’t wait to show it when it’s in place.
There’s more to share about the new kitchen — the materials, finishes, and other details — but those updates will come in future posts. For now, enjoy these progress photos and imagine how the space will come together.
Want to guess what the surprise feature will be?
Thanks again for following along. Hope you have a great weekend!
UPDATE 2019: See the REVEAL of this kitchen in a later post.