Clever Storage Solutions and Layers of Texture Make this Kitchen Renovation a Major Success

Purpose meets personality in this custom kitchen by HouseLift Design

After purchasing their family home more than 13 years ago, a pair of Atlanta homeowners tackled numerous home-improvement projects before the time finally felt right to complete their dream project: the kitchen. “They envisioned a space with beautiful finishes, functional storage, and personalized custom touches,” says Brenda Thompson, owner and principal designer of HouseLift Design. “They wanted a timeless kitchen with modern elements to keep it fresh and relevant.”

To achieve this, custom white oak cabinetry—which HouseLift brought to life with the help of Summit Renovations and Pogue Cabinets—takes center stage, providing functional storage for appliances while grounding the kitchen in a blend of materials and textures. Near the range, for instance, a countertop cabinet features unique reeded glass, which echoes the reeded details on the nearby pantry. Lower cabinetry features deep drawers that easily fit pots and pans. Custom organizational inserts cut down on clutter, while a docking drawer keeps electronic devices out of the way. Another functional yet fashionable choice was the durable, low-maintenance Cambria quartz that the designer used for the countertops and extended up to the backsplash for a seamless effect.

One of the homeowners’ primary needs was additional refrigeration space, which the design team addressed by converting a closet into a functional bar area with an ice maker and double-drawer refrigerator for beverages. To tackle the room’s limited natural light, HouseLift incorporated dimmable recessed lighting in crucial areas, wall sconces by the range, and pendant lights over the island. “This approach allowed for ambient lighting during day-to-day use, with the option for brighter lighting with additional recessed lights when needed,” says the designer.

“This kitchen is more than a culinary workspace,” adds Thompson. “It’s a beautifully designed environment that enriches the entire home.”