Project Description
Condo Kitchen Remodel in Harrison, NY
SEE THE “BEFORE” PHOTOS:
Opening Up a Closed-Off Pre-War Condo for Modern Living
When this young couple purchased their condo in Harrison, NY, they knew right away that the space didn’t match how they wanted to live. Like many pre-war condo units in the area, the layout was compartmentalized — the kitchen, dining room, and living room were all boxed off into separate rooms, limiting light, flow, and everyday functionality.
Shortly after closing, they reached out to us at RAJ Kitchen & Bath to explore whether the space could be opened up and modernized without sacrificing storage or comfort. The goal wasn’t just a new kitchen — it was to re-think how the entire main living area worked together.
Removing Walls to Create One Connected Living Space
The first major design decision was structural: removing the wall between the kitchen and living room, followed by the wall separating the kitchen from the dining area. By opening both walls, we were able to create a single, continuous space that felt dramatically larger and more livable.
Of course, opening walls in a condo comes with trade-offs — especially storage. Knowing we’d be losing upper cabinetry, we approached the layout strategically, expanding the kitchen footprint slightly into the dining area and reconfiguring appliance placement to make the most of every inch.
A Wrapped Kitchen Layout That Makes Storage Work Harder
To compensate for the reduced wall cabinets, we redesigned the base cabinetry into a fully wrapped, rectangular layout. This allowed us to increase lower cabinet storage while maintaining clear circulation into the kitchen.
The refrigerator was relocated to improve workflow, and the counter layout was carefully shaped to preserve openness without crowding the space. The result was a kitchen that felt intentional, balanced, and far more functional than the original footprint ever allowed.
This Harrison, NY condo kitchen remodel is a great example of how our kitchen remodeling services focus on improving flow, light, and everyday functionality.
TRANSFORMATION VIDEO:
Two-Tier Countertops for Function, Seating, and Privacy
One of the defining features of this remodel was the two-tier countertop design. The lower level was dedicated to cooking and prep, while the raised bar top served multiple purposes:
-
Added seating for casual dining and entertaining
-
Created visual separation between the kitchen work zone and living area
-
Allowed for additional outlets above the lower counter without clutter
This design move gave the couple everyday usability while subtly maintaining privacy from the kitchen without closing it off again.
Solving a Concrete Ceiling with Architectural Ingenuity
Pre-war condo buildings often come with solid concrete ceilings — and this unit was no exception. Surface-mounted electrical was not an option, so instead of compromising the design, we leaned into it.
We designed a floating soffit that wrapped the perimeter of the kitchen and extended over the raised bar area. This architectural detail allowed us to conceal electrical runs, install pendant lighting, and add visual depth to the room — all while keeping the ceiling clean and intentional.
Bright Finishes That Transformed the Entire Apartment
White shaker-style cabinetry provided a timeless foundation, while a custom wine rack added texture and a layer of visual interest. White quartz countertops and glass tile backsplash reflected light throughout the space, amplifying the openness created by removing the walls.
One unexpected benefit of the remodel was just how much brighter the entire apartment became. Once the kitchen window was no longer trapped inside a dark, enclosed room, natural light poured into the living and dining areas — instantly changing how the whole home felt.
A Kitchen That Matched a New Chapter
This remodel wasn’t just about finishes or layout — it was about aligning the space with a new stage of life. By opening the kitchen, improving flow, and maximizing function, we helped turn a dated condo into a bright, welcoming home that supported how this young couple wanted to live, gather, and grow.
Even years later, this Harrison, NY condo kitchen remodel remains a good example of how good design and smart construction can completely transform a space — without increasing square footage. Learn more about our Remodeling service in Westchester NY
