Project Description
Kitchen Remodel in Pelham Manor, NY — All About the Design.
We were commissioned to provide a custom kitchen design in Pelham Manor, evaluating an existing layout that simply wasn’t working for the way this family lived.. They loved to entertain and spend time together, but the space itself made that difficult. The layout felt tight, the flow was awkward, and the cabinetry—while once functional—had clearly reached the end of its usefulness.
As we studied the home, several design challenges became immediately clear. A staircase to the second floor ran directly through the kitchen, forcing the dining area to one side and limiting any sense of openness. A rear porch offered beautiful panoramic views of the backyard, yet it was largely underutilized during the warmer months. And while a peninsula existed, the overall kitchen footprint was simply too small for a growing family. At one point, the homeowners walked us through the space, showing us firsthand how uncomfortable everyday use had become. We understood immediately.
BEFORE PHOTOS:
From that moment on, everything in the room was fair game.
The design approach focused on openness, flow, and connection—both within the home and to the outdoors. Early concepts explored fully integrating the porch into the kitchen using a large operable glass wall system. While that approach proved impractical, it led us to a more permanent and refined solution: a commercial-grade glass wall application that preserved the views while fundamentally redefining the space.
With that strategy in place, we turned inward and made one of the most impactful decisions of the project—removing the staircase entirely. This single move unlocked two major benefits. First, it allowed us to completely reconfigure the kitchen layout for improved circulation, sightlines, and functionality. Second, it opened up the second floor, creating space for a large custom built-in closet system.
From there, the transformation accelerated. Windows were relocated to maximize natural light and backyard views. A fireplace was introduced, paired with a built-in television above, creating a true gathering point within the space. The kitchen itself was rebuilt around a large central island with seating, a generously sized sink, and fully integrated appliances—positioned to take full advantage of the newly opened layout.
Most importantly, the kitchen was reoriented to face outward. Instead of working toward a wall, the space now engages directly with the outdoors. When you enter the home and come up the entry stairs, the kitchen draws you in—open, welcoming, and naturally suited for entertaining, relaxing, and everyday living.
This project was all about design. Thoughtful planning, structural reconfiguration, and a willingness to challenge the original layout are what made this kitchen successful. It’s a strong example of how intentional design decisions can overcome significant constraints and create a space that truly works for the people who live in it.
Close your eyes for a moment and imagine a winter morning—coffee in hand, snow falling softly outside those expansive windows, radiant heated floors warming the space as the family gathers around the table. That’s what good design makes possible.
As part of our continued work in Pelham Manor and across Westchester County, projects like this reflect how thoughtful design and execution can transform everyday living.
Another happy client. On to the next
