An outdated kitchen transforms into a dream space through innovative design and architectural flair.
Story by Ann Butenas / Photography by Matt Kocourek
In the heart of Olathe, an early 2000s split-level home had a kitchen untouched since its original construction. Compartmentalized and cramped, navigation was challenging so the space was primed for a transformation. Enter Lisa Otterness, CKD with Kohler Signature Store and formerly with Classic Kitchens Design Studio, whose vision would not only reinvent the kitchen but reimagine the entire main floor’s flow.
The ambitious project began with a dramatic architectural statement: opening the ceiling to the rafters to create a striking A-frame design enhanced with shiplap.
“The shiplap ceiling adds volume to the room, making it feel spacious and lofty,” Otterness explained. By minimizing moldings to accommodate tall pantries and rooflines, she ensured the vertical space was maximized without visual interference.
The renovation’s scope extended beyond the kitchen itself, knocking down walls to unite previously separated sitting, dining, and kitchen areas into one cohesive space. At the center of this new layout sits a thoughtfully designed island featuring vertical storage with flexible drawer organizers, a sink, and a dishwasher. The island’s taupe/gray stain, initially outside the owner’s comfort zone for her love of all things white, adds warmth to the space while a gold foot rail introduces an elegant touch.
When faced with a flooring challenge – insufficient material between the new island and refrigerator – Otterness showcased her problem-solving skills.
“That is a hallmark of good design,” she noted. “It is being purposeful in what you do.” Her solution? A tile “rug” using the same material as the backsplash in the kitchen, transforming a potential issue into a design feature. This creative approach not only addressed a practical problem but added character to the space.
The material palette throughout the kitchen speaks to sophisticated taste and attention to detail. Brown with marbled black and white quartz countertops complement the range’s black backsplash with gold veining. An industrial-style faucet on the island features black and gold accents, coordinating perfectly with bronze brown cabinet pulls. The space now boasts four tall pantries providing ample storage while maintaining clean lines. Each material selection was made carefully to create a cohesive look that balances functionality with aesthetic appeal.
A standout feature is the range hood, which reflects the homeowners’ love of outdoor living through a bronze bas-relief showcasing stag deer.
“This was her idea” said Otterness, who values working with design-savvy homeowners. The hood’s construction involved careful blocking and plastering, finished with walnut details that coordinate with floating shelves. Attention to detail extends to the lighting design, with library lights installed above these shelves to create a gallery-like effect perfect for displaying the homeowner’s decorative collections and adding ambiance to the space.
“She plays with scale well and has an eclectic mix in this space,” expressed Otterness, acknowledging the homeowner’s professional eye for decoration. This collaboration between designer and homeowner resulted in thoughtful touches throughout, from the Sub-Zero refrigerator with a window to the professional-grade range with its matte black pot filler. The combination of high-end appliances and custom features creates a kitchen that’s both functional and beautiful.
The renovation process required careful attention to every detail. Otterness and the homeowners had extensive discussions about the length and placement of floating shelves while ensuring that the backsplash tile – which matches the floor tile – created perfect visual continuity. The countertop near the range serves as a backsplash until it meets the window ledge, demonstrating careful consideration for every transition. Each element was meticulously planned to ensure seamless flow throughout the space.
For these homeowners who had long debated between moving and renovating, choosing to stay and transform their existing space proved invaluable.
“Lisa was our ears and eyes; she listened to us,” reflected the owner. “Her creativity was just fabulous.”
The project represents more than just a kitchen renovation – it’s a testament to thoughtful design and collaboration. The result is a kitchen that maximizes every inch while maintaining an easy flow – a space that, in the owner’s words, feels “very welcoming… like a big hug.”
Through careful consideration of every element, from practical storage solutions to artistic details, this stunning kitchen transformation proves that staying put can lead to your ideal living space. The renovation showcases how innovative design solutions, quality materials, and expert craftsmanship can come together to create a kitchen that meets daily needs while enhancing aesthetics and functionality throughout your home. For these homeowners, what started as an outdated kitchen has become their home’s heart – balancing beauty, practicality, and personal style perfectly.
Resources
- Designer: Lisa Otterness, CKD~Kohler Signature Store
- Contractor: Dave Wood ~ Wood Remodeling
- Appliances: Range: GE Monogram~Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery; Fridge: Sub-Zero with Glass Door~Roth Living; Dishwasher: Fisher & Paykal; Hood: Custom~Wood Remodeling
- Plumbing: Kitchen Faucet: Juxtapose Kallista~Kohler
- Pot Filler: Graze~Kohler
- Sink: Riverby~Kohler
- Hardware: Pulls~Top Knobs
- Perimeter & Island Countertops: Cambria Charlestown~Central Surfaces
