Brightening Up A Dark Kitchen

The entire staff at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen prides themselves on being one of the most trusted names in the kitchen and bath remodeling industry. This philosophy, coupled with unsurpassed attention to detail, led to the firm being awarded the National Association Of The Remodeling Industry’s Coty Award for Best Bath last season.

With a tradition of excellence in the remodeling industry that has been celebrated for over 30 years, Reed and Company, Inc., decided to become part of the DreamMaker network in order to offer remodeling expertise combined with the highest standard of quality. As a local franchise, they can insure the personal attention and commitment that will transform your bathroom and kitchen into the space that you’ve always desired.

As owner Meriam Reed explains, “We wanted to add a really special division to our company and we researched the industry to find the best way for us to add a kitchen and bath division. DreamMaker was ideal - a fantastic partnership for all concerned. We have wonderful suppliers and vendors who offer a wide range of products and we have them all on display in our showroom to select. A client needn’t run all over town for material selection. We offer a service that is exclusive to the industry - a complete, boutique showroom, where clients may come to select every component of their kitchen or bath project. We can provide you with everything: flooring, lighting, cabinets, countertops, sinks and faucets.”

The extensive remodel pictured here illustrates the typical “before” kitchen DreamMaker encounters. Prior to the remodel, the kitchen was dark, outdated, and not at all conducive to the needs of the modern chef. With no natural light to brighten the space, the designer was challenged to create an airy, open feel without the advantage of windows. Long stretches of counter space lacked useable storage, while the appliances added to the outdated look of the room. Dominating space in the center of the room was a poorly designed island that lacked seating for more than one person.

The design of the room needed a creative alternative to windows. In order to bring a light and airy feel to the room, the designer chose light cabinetry and added matching door panels to the refrigerator. Task lighting above and below the cabinets lit spaces of the room that would be cast in darkness without the well-placed lighting. Recessed lighting in the ceiling also added a subtle source of light, and pendant lights over the island added light, while acting as a stylish accessory in the room. Even more function was added to the dining area by replacing the wet bar with a buffet. With home office materials close at hand in the designated area, the client can multi-task in her new kitchen. With many options for lighting, the client can also adjust the lighting - bright, for reading detailed recipes from a book, or low, for serving dinner over candlelight.

Showplace Wood Products® cabinetry was chosen in a soft Antique Linen finish with a warm caramel glaze. The cabinetry brightened the space, while ample storage was created that maximized the space. Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Drawers® give the homeowner the option of two dishwashers in one. The homeowner can now wash delicate crystal and heavily soiled pans at the same time with the dual settings. A Kindred Crown Platinum Triple Sink® has an expanded versatility over traditional sinks.

The island is a central station in the room. With bun feet and added detail, the island was selected to appear as a piece of antique furniture in the room. Complete with a range, the island becomes the tip of the "triangle" to maximize the cook’s efficiency in the space. There is now seating for several people on the island, which adds to its overall function. A stainless steel double oven gives a contemporary feel as well.

By selecting a natural, sandy color for the walls and tile and an Antique Linen shade with a fresh caramel glaze for the new cabinetry, the room immediately felt brighter and happier. Taller cabinets eliminate the wasted space near the ceiling. Rather than having an awkward place for trinkets at the top of the room, the designers created a space for additional light that spotlights the crown moulding and makes the room feel spacious and open. Recessed lighting in the ceiling is a subtle source of overhead light. Lights under the cabinetry illuminate the natural tile and durable granite countertop workspace.

Transforming outdated spaces is all in a day’s work for the experienced design team at DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen. However, they realize that for many of their clients, such a huge job can be intimidating. “From planning out your perfect room to putting on the finishing touches, we’ll listen to exactly what it is you want,” says Reed. “We guide our clients through the entire process, from color selection to installation. Our clients can sit back and relax through it all.”

DREAMMAKER BATH & KITCHEN
1826 Trade Center Way, Unit I,
Naples 34109
239 596-5306
www.dreammaker-remodelnaples.com

Written by Helena Wellesley