GOLD AWARD
Lavelle Fine Cabinetry and Design
Fort Myers, Fla.
Project location: Cape Coral, Fla.
Project cost: $47,000

The existing kitchen in this Cape Coral home inspired little more than carry-outs or meals of the Hamburger Helper variety. The space was small, compartmentalized with odd angled walls, and had little storage.

The remodeler set out to change that, creating instead a space that simplifies life and promotes good health — a place where preparing whole, natural food is easy and where family and friends can participate and interact, he says.

Interior walls were removed to open the kitchen and main living areas to each other, providing space for entertaining where people can interact from any of those spaces. The new design makes food preparation fun and part of the entertainment. The efficiency and functionality of those spaces were improved by having them perform multiple functions.

The amount and accessibility of storage space in the kitchen was increased. Updated appliances operate more efficiently and speed cooking times. The flooring is durable and pet friendly, while durable and low-maintenance surfaces are used in the prep and cook areas.

The exterior walls and window locations were not changed, meaning the layout had to work around their existing, off-center locations. A 6-in. recess was put into the wall behind the refrigerator (this wall goes into the garage) to give the refrigerator a built-in look.

The original laundry room was poorly planned and took a lot of square footage from the kitchen. Now the washer and dryer are stacked in a closet. Opposite the washer dryer is broom storage and a utility sink.

The original ceiling was a plain cathedral ceiling. A perimeter soffit for can lights was created. The ceiling design features bead board installed in a diamond pattern with trim and inverted finials; the finials are pressure treated fence post caps. The center beam provides a visual divide between the kitchen and dining room.

A crown was added to the perimeter with rope lighting dropped in. The ceiling keeps the space feeling large, has great visual interest and “wow” from everyone who sees it.

“Great kitchen for the money,” said one judge. “Design concept and execution are great; lighting design works well, too,” commented another.

Products specified:
Appliances: GE
Paints/stains: Olympic
Lighting fixtures: Portfolio
Countertops: Cambria

Silver:
Team Entry: Architectural
Resource, Ann Arbor, Mich. and
Meadowlark Builders,
Ann Arbor, Mich.

Bronze:
Jane Page Design Group
Houston, Texas

Bronze:
DE-DESIGN
Washington, D.C.