At Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath (JGKB), we believe every kitchen should be as unique and dynamic as the family that calls it home. Our recent project in Arlington, Virginia, perfectly reflects this belief, turning a tired, traditional kitchen into an elegant, organized space that matches the vibrant energy of its owners.
Design Vision
For this transformation, our talented designer Meghan Browne took the reins. The goal? To create a kitchen that was not only beautiful but also highly functional for a young, active family. The old kitchen layout didn’t serve the space well, and the style felt outdated. Browne knew it needed a refreshed design with modern touches that embraced efficiency and ease.
Layout Revamp
One of the first steps was tackling the layout. Browne relocated the range top to the back wall, instantly opening up the space. She also expanded the size of the island, ensuring it better matched the room’s proportions. This redesign created more fluid movement within the kitchen, making it a more welcoming and functional hub for daily activities.
Purposeful Stations
Next came the creation of specialized stations to streamline kitchen tasks:
- Cooking Station: At the heart of the kitchen is a custom hood, paired with a 1200 CFM blower and a high-BTU Wolf Rangetop. This professional-grade setup delivers restaurant-quality results, whether the family is preparing everyday meals or experimenting with new recipes.
- Prep Station: Designed with convenience in mind, the prep station along the back wall and island includes an appliance garage with a toaster oven and easily accessible refrigerator and freezer drawers. These features allow for quick meal prep and keep the kitchen clutter-free.
- Entertaining Station: When hosting guests, the entertaining station shines. Bi-fold retractable doors provide a sleek, streamlined appearance, hiding beverage accessories when not in use. The design keeps the kitchen looking tidy while ensuring guests can easily refill drinks.
Dividing and Defining Spaces
To enhance both the functionality and aesthetics, Browne introduced a wall that separates the kitchen from the eat-in area. This change not only defined the two spaces but also allowed the addition of custom cabinetry specifically for homework and charging electronics. The mirrored cabinet fronts, taller height (60"), and stylish picture lights above give this area a more decorative appeal, seamlessly blending with the adjacent dining space.
Elegant Aesthetic with a Modern Twist
In addition to reworking the layout, Browne infused the kitchen with elegant touches that perfectly complement the family’s style. The sleek, modern aesthetic is enriched by a fun pop of blue on the island, adding a touch of personality and contrast. The island's sculptural granite waterfall countertop doubles as a seating area, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings, from meal prep to casual conversations.
The backsplash, made of Neolith porcelain tile with Calacatta veining, brings a sophisticated, luxurious look, while the horizontal wood grain of the laminate base cabinets and tall cabinet walls adds a sense of warmth. These elements strike a perfect balance between elegance and functionality.
The Final Result
Meghan Browne’s 2019 kitchen renovation in Arlington, VA, delivers an inspired and inviting space that fits the family’s lifestyle. With ample room for meal prep, baking cookies, and serving up snacks, this reimagined kitchen is not just a place for cooking but a true family hub.