Best Kitchen Remodel in a Home 3,000 to 5,000 Square Feet The existing kitchen in this California rancher was pure vanilla–a peninsula kitchen open to a small dining area. Not much light, not much space, not much excitement. What made it worse was that the home’s entry opened directly into a disorganized kitchen. Architect Philip Volkmann’s plan stripped this space down to grade, expanded it into the site by 458 square feet, and laid it out to give the home more functionality and flow.
The extended space sits under a new gabled roof that runs perpendicular to the existing ridgeline. Beneath it an open plan relies on two kitchen islands, cabinetry, and ceiling trusses to break the space into three: breakfast nook, kitchen, and dining room. The arched trusses add Craftsman character to the space and echo its large arched windows.
Besides giving the owners a sunny kitchen, the relatively simple addition solved a number of problems. It improved the entry, now a stylish foyer separated from the kitchen. There’s a convenient, unobstructed path to the living room. Volkmann was also able to add a laundry room and pantry. And the added footage created easy access between kitchen and patio. All in all, “a wondrous space,” the judges agreed.
Project Credits: Entrant/Architect: Barry & Volkmann Architects, Danville, Calif.; Builder: Ekman & Associates, Brentwood, Calif.; Photographer: Muffy Kibbey.
