While it has been about ten months since my kitchen felt “finished” enough to call it done, I never shared a clear sketch showing the layout before and after the remodel.
It was enjoyable to document each step of the renovation so readers could follow along before the reveal — half the excitement is in the process, even if remodeling is messy at times. I wanted to revisit the project to show this bird’s-eye view and explain how a few targeted changes — like moving the dishwasher and adjusting one cabinet run — transformed the room.
In the “before” sketch (and the photo below), the kitchen was effectively split in two by a long stretch of countertop, which caused frequent traffic jams. The separation left both the cooking and eating zones cramped, making it difficult for our family to function and entertain comfortably. With six people and two dogs, we needed more breathing room, and that became the driving idea behind the remodel.
We didn’t have to remove walls or build an addition to make the space feel larger. The key moves were removing a bank of small, mostly useless drawers and an awkward corner cabinet, then relocating the dishwasher to the right of the sink. That change freed up a long, continuous counter beside the sink without sacrificing storage: we added six new drawers to the right of the dishwasher to store silverware and dishes, improving workflow and efficiency.
Another important update was removing the cramped upper cabinets at the far end of the kitchen. I don’t miss them at all — I love the light and openness created by that empty space above the lower cabinets.
The freestanding island we placed in the middle provides extra counter space and storage while still allowing the dishwasher to open and traffic to flow freely around it. There’s room for a couple of bar stools with comfortable clearance. We may upgrade the island in the future, but the current one serves our needs well for now.
We intentionally left the small area where the kitchen table used to be open. Our dining room sits just outside the kitchen, so a second table wasn’t necessary. When we entertain, having that open space makes it easier for guests to gather without obstructing the cook. It also gives our dogs room to roam without bumping into furniture. We still use the kitchen chairs regularly, and I appreciate how cozy and functional that seating feels.
You now have the bird’s-eye sketch of the kitchen and an explanation of the changes that made it more livable. After eight days of the flu, I’m feeling restless and eager to start another project — so who knows what will come next at my house.
Kitchen Renovation posts, The Kitchen Reveal, Kitchen Sources and Paint Colors