This updated kitchen now inspires joy and creativity.
Story by Judy Goppert / Photography by Matt Kocourek
When Shelby Puetz, at Well Appointed Designs, met Bruce and Dolores Toby in 2021, they developed an immediate bond.
“The Tobys found me through a feature in a local publication, and Dolores explained that she had been living with her outdated kitchen for much too long,” said Shelby. “She had been waiting years to get started on this project and when we met, we found that our visions for her kitchen were very much aligned. From there, we began the process of remodeling this retro, but well-loved kitchen. We are very proud of the result, and grateful to the Tobys for the opportunity for us to collaborate.”
The Tobys’ goal was to update their outdated, 80’s-reminiscent red walls, laminate countertops, and appliances that had become unreliable. As a culinary school graduate, Dolores wanted to make this kitchen a beautiful and functional workspace where she could utilize her new skills. As not only an avid cook, but a baker as well, the kitchen would be both a haven and a source of inspiration.
The first step in the journey was selecting appliances with Factory Direct, at the Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery in Lenexa.
“They have a great team, and they were able to help the clients select a new range, ovens, and a microwave by Wolf, and new refrigerators by Sub-Zero,” Shelby said.
“We created a wall dedicated to the TV, because Dolores likes to have it on while she works. We wanted to keep the space inviting, classic and timeless for her. We did warm undertones with rich colors to match the traditional style of the rest of the home,” Shelby explained.
Shelby stated that the original kitchen had three sinks, and that the Tobys had fallen in love with how that worked for them. New basins were installed for prepping, washing and rinsing, as were a new faucet and hot water dispenser. A set of double-ovens now adorn the range wall, making the creation of holiday confections easier and more efficient.
“I wanted to create a division of space utilizing the height of the ceiling,” Shelby said.
“We created custom insets over the table and a large island, to create definition. We didn’t want anything to interfere with the countertop on the island. Having a spacious and unobstructed area to prep and serve was very important.”
During the remodel, a redundant kitchen door was removed, and transom windows were added over the remaining door, allowing natural light into the space. For the same purpose, a larger window was installed over the sinks. The beverage area is a beautiful, natural stone remnant with a leather finish.
“The kitchen backsplashes consist of artisan marble, quartz slabs, and mosaic tile,” said Shelby. “We ran the quartz material up the backsplash for cleanability and visual impact. Above the range, we used dimensional marble, which is comprised of individual pieces featuring soft edges. When light illuminates the contours, a textural effect is created.”
Originally, there was a bevy of preexisting cabinetry that did not serve the Tobys’ desired lifestyle. Shelby’s focus was to design work zones, featuring specialized cabinetry to accommodate for different cooking needs, in the moment. These work zones also serve to protect against cross-contamination and allow the chef to balance several projects.
“For the Tobys to have let me into their home and to have placed their complete trust in me to realize the kitchen they deserve, was an honor and a privilege,” Shelby said. “I was given the opportunity to listen to and understand their needs, and then blend that with their personal style to create exactly the space they needed. I truly cannot thank them enough for their confidence, and I am thrilled with how much they love their new kitchen.”
“Our kitchen has always been the gathering area for our family and friends. After graduating from culinary school, Bruce and I decided it was time for a new kitchen. Working with Shelby, we created a bright and open floor plan that is delightful for entertaining and cooking delicious meals for our loved ones.” ~ DOLORES TOBY
Resources
- Design: Well Appointed Designs
- Countertops: Rock Tops
- Lighting: Rensen House of Lights
- Cabinetry: Showplace Cabinetry
- Appliances: Ferguson Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Gallery
- Tile: ASMI and International Materials of Design
- Plumbing: Kohler Signature Store and Kitchens & Baths by Briggs
- Window Coverings: Hunter Douglas
- Beverage Countertop: Blue Valley Granite
