psssst…. shop our spaces here!
Well guys, it’s been quite the journey.
And it just felt appropriate today to have a little kitchen reveal for all of you… if you’re in between turkey-induced siestas.
Because we’re just grateful to be here. You guys have probably been with us step by step, and we’re thrilled to share a little bit about the finished space today.
While it will be just a little bit until we have the entire great room up and running and ready to share {we’re so excited!} We thought it would be fun to have the kitchen area up and at it. A little bit of calm in the chaos, if you will. We’re still in a little bit of that awkward, where-does-this-fit-with-all-things-furniture, phase. And finding a home for all the things. And purging even more with the things that don’t fit. It’s nice to take our time after all the craziness in our lives.
Moving fun. Wheeeeee.
We honestly planned to have all of our sources up today, too. But bigger things {like spending time with the kiddos while they’re out of school} are pulling at our heartstrings so please pardon us for having that up next week, instead. We promise to have the full details then. We’ll also be thorough about revisiting each element, along with full on details behind some DIY things we tackled, as well. We can’t wait.
So in the meantime, pull up some pumpkin pie, and let’s pay this kitchen a little visit. ;}
When we walked into the house for the first time, this is one of the first things we saw. This great room space was once divided into 4 smaller rooms: The entryway, formal living room, den area, and kitchen. And we were obsessed. We had a little dream and a crazy vision and at times, we didn’t know if it was going to happen. There were some unreal obstacles that had to happen before we could get to that point. We’re still jumping over some crazy hurdles. Still trying to figure some things out. But it’s worth it.
I guess it’s not feeling so much like a money pit, anymore. And more like home.
Here’s what the kitchen area of the great room looks like now:
We were delighted when we figured out how to take out the lower ceilings and existing walls.
The new format actually made the room more functional.
We added inset shaker style cabinets, fresh drywall and paint, shiplap ceilings and beams for some major character.
The island is one of our favorite parts, as this house no longer has a formal dining room area.
We plan to have a large kitchen table that will be a part of the great room, and eventually the pool area {hopefully in the future with a screened in porch} will probably be our main source of entertaining. So to have a big island just made sense. We’re thinking along the lines of we-hope-to-have-a-lot-of-teenagers-gathered one day all too soon, mode.
The countertops are decked out in a beautiful soapstone, and marble.
We. LOVE. Them.
The movement in this stone, though. (Alberene Soapstone from Polycor’s Virginia quarry.)
We opted for double ovens, underneath one big cooktop.
We were torn about this at first because space was tight, and we needed counter space… so we were so glad to go this route. We made up for lost cabinet space, by adding more storage on the other side of our island where the bar stools are stored.
We loved that we added another window, and moved the existing one on this wall to make the space more symmetrical. We also added transoms in the way of some stained glass windows we found at the local flea market this spring.
In the afternoons, the sun sets on this side of the house, so the space actually glows with color. It’s hard to pick a favorite but this is definitely one of the best elements.
The french hood also ties it all together. We added our own trim to highlight its fun shape.
But what’s underneath is kind of incredible. We’ll have to post a video on it soon… I feel like I’ve never had a real grown-up hood before, and this thing feels like a rocket ship. It also provides plenty of pretty lighting at night, and we love that.
(Marble from Polycor’s Georgia quarry.)
We were able to avoid extra plugs on this backsplash by putting shelves underneath the taller windows. They allow a hidden area for plugs, and we’ll be sharing more details on that, coming up.
We added hardwoods throughout the house and love the nice, classic feel it brings. Especially with two dogs. Yes, more on this soon, too.
We decided to place the microwave down low, and out of the way. We’ve had it both ways before, and we love that it’s in the island here for easy access. The kids can use it on their own, too.
The dishwasher sits on the other side of the farmhouse sink and faucet.
We love it all, especially the fact that our island is more than just a pretty sitting space… because of our layout, it houses a lot of functionality as well – we believe in elements that work hard, as well as look good. Again, more details on all of it, coming soon.
We included the trash in a pullout, to the left of the stoves and the right of the fridge – we love having it in a concealed area, with two garbage cans. It provides a lot of space for our family and keeps it out of the way of curious dogs who like to stick their noses in it. {Cough cough, Rigby.}
Adding this x to the end caps of the island is also one of our very favorite parts. It’s all in the details.
I must confess, one of the reasons we wanted inset shaker style was because of the classic feel and excellent craftsmanship… but also for these latches. They kind of added that finishing touch that we love. It feels like something timeless in an old house.
Last night, we had pancakes for breakfast.
With maple bacon.
And we played Christmas music and danced by the fire. Maybe It sounds lame and fairytale-esque. It can be easy to get caught up in the insanity of the holiday season, work and all things still to be unpacked in the chaos. Trust us… the rest of the house is chaos. We just want to soak up every moment. And be.
It just feels very appropriate right now after this journey and process. I know a lot of you can totally relate.
I will forever remember being on ladders, hanging this shiplap. And we adore the beams. We can’t imagine this room without it.
Tutorial is on its way!
Of course we have more plans for the kitchen area, if you’re wondering why each side of the cabinets is still blank, and are just tuning in.
We plan to add a desk to the right, and will have more details on that in the future. To the left, will be our eventual addition. With all the troubles we’ve had a-la septic, eventual is the key word here.
We need to finish that basement, first. Right now, we’re living in 1700 sq ft of space, and when the basement is finished, that will help. But I can honestly say we’re enjoying it.
We have plans to stay here and let the house grow with us as the kids grow. So we have a lot more in front of us as far as spaces and plans. But for now… we’re listening to that Christmas music and eating all the bacon.
Which I will regret in January.
But for now… bacon.
Again, we will be back soon with all things full on details and sources and DIYs for the space.
Let us know if we can answer any questions you may have in future posts, or in the meantime.
We’ve come a long way, baby.
Have a happy week and an inspired day!
Anna International says
Absolutely unbelievably stunning! And what a great family space. We’re just remortgaging to get some money to move and extend our kitchen, and if we end up with anything even approaching this gorgeous I will be delighted! Look forward to reading all your tutorials. Love the idea of the power sockets concealed under the shelf – so clever, and a minor detail but I imagine it makes all the difference! x
Leanne says
What a beautiful kitchen!
Julie @Life of Bliss says
It’s all so very fabulous!!!! So happy for you to have it done in time for the holidays! Enjoy!!
Diane Henkler says
It looks AMAZING…you guys did a fabulous job and I love that your personal style shines brightly through each and every detail. Enjoy that bacon… and more! Happy Thanksgiving. XO
Jamie | The Kitchenarium says
What a beautiful transformation. I put cabinets on the other side of my island too and I love it. The kitchen lady who first was helping me plan told me it would be inconvenient and I wouldn’t like it. She actually wasn’t going to design it that way. We kicked her to the curb, found some one who would, and haven’t regretted a thing. I have four kids and entertain large groups frequently the extra storage those cabinets provide, and the saving me from running down to the basement storage every time I need an extra plate or glass has been well worth it. You will love this open space and hardwood floors –so great for families!
Ann Marie @ Twice Lovely says
The backsplash tile is my very favorite element. So pretty!
Aubrey says
Wow! What a beautiful space! You guys have worked your butts off and all the effort and attention to detail really shows. I love that some of your love for colour still shines through with those stained glass windows.
Mary says
I love the glass tile on the wall. Beautiful!
Pamela says
Gorgeous room… Hope you and your family enjoy it to the fullest!!! One quick question… what do you use on your soapstone? All my counter-tops are Churchill soapstone and I am having a hard time keeping them looking good… tried mineral oil… too messy and then used dry wax, but that does not last more than a day or two… Thanks!
Happy Thanksgiving
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Pamela!
I can honestly say, we’re still experimenting ourselves. I plan to have a full post in the near future about what we like the most… please stay tuned? I think its an issue of finding what you love the most. Hope that helps – probably not? :/
Mandy says
I L❤️ve every single thing about your kitchen….insert big sigh here…….?
I was wondering why the tile suddenly stopped on the back wall but now it all makes sense. What do you do about a kettle and a toaster, ?
Brini says
I love the lights over your island!! Where are they from?
JenWoodhouse.com says
Wow wow WOWWWW! Oh my goodness you guys. Every stinkin’ detail! Breath-taking, thoughtful, and absolutely stunning! I remember seeing this space down to the studs and to see it now, WOW. Just amazing to see what a ton of hard work and great vision can accomplish. #dreamkitchen So thrilled for you!!! Happy Thanksgiving Mills! xoxo
Courtney says
The trim on the hood is my favorite part! Makes it so special!! 😀 love it!
Jen says
I love the island! What are the dimensions? I have a family of 6 and I would love to open up our kitchen and make an island that could seat all of us, but I’m not sure if I would have the space.
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Jen! So sorry for the delayed response – the dimensions of our island are 10 x 4 – I hope that helps!
Suzy McCowen says
The backsplash is just beautiful!!! The entire kitchen is beautiful! About those teenagers- that will happen way sooner than you think! I am sure you will enjoy this beautiful kitchen. Happy Thanksgiving!!
Tiffany says
Wonderful job!! Thank you guys for sharing, and I feel ya on the pull-out trash. We are having that conversation in our house right now. This is simply beautiful!
Dianne says
Being in the midst of a total remodel myself, I can totally relate! I absolutely love your backsplash tile and the soapstone. It’s coming together! Dianne
sandy says
Congrats…it looks beautiful!! So very happy for you..
I was just wondering where your electrical outlets are on your island or if you have them? We have a very large two level island that we are considering turning into one but wondering where to put the outlets. Our oven and bar sink, ice maker are all on the island and I do use the current outlets for prep work from time to time. 🙂
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Sandy! With the way our island is configured, they {codes} were going to make us put them on the side. And they wouldn’t fit at the top on the side, but rather, almost in the center, oh so awkwardly, which is where you can see one of my favorite parts… the X on each end. I’m not sure how much I can say here, but let’s just leave it at after debating for days while they were at the house, and no other solution working, I basically begged and they agreed to not ruin that one for me. Codes guy and electrician did me a solid. Something finally paid off after all the drama we’ve had with septic. We do most of our work on the other side on the marble with all things electrical, and when we need it, we will use an extension cord. It’s just something I wanted. Probably not for most people. ;} But worth it after paying all that money for those inset cabinets. It was a small victory.
Mike says
Love the side by side ovens! We are looking into this brand, have you had any issues with them? Thanks!
ashley @ the handmade home says
No! Three years later and they’re our fave element in our kitchen.
Michele says
What brand are they?
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Michele – sorry just seeing your comment. I do not think I understand what exactly you’re asking? You can shop our spaces here. I hope that helps.
Megan says
What brand and model are the ovens. I didn’t see them linked
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey! We went into all the details here – they’re Frigidaire. Hope that helps! https://www.thehandmadehome.net/what-we-love-about-frigidaire/
Jessica says
Looks amazing! Which ovens/range did you use? We are looking to do a layout just like this but don’t know which appliances to use. Thanks!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Jessica! These are Frigidaire. I encourage you to check out all their lines! Hope that helps.