Classic Spanish Meets California Cool in This Lovely Kitchen Makeover

There's no denying that the kitchen is the heart of the home. So when an outdated kitchen gets a striking update that elevates its original aesthetic with a clean, modern direction, it's a breath of fresh air that brings new life beyond the kitchen walls. This is exactly what Meredith Gullion of Cooper Pacific Kitchens achieved when overhauling an old-fashioned kitchen to re-create a bright, airy gathering space. The design directive for the kitchen makeover was "classic Spanish meets California cool," says Gullion. "The client knew they wanted to keep traditional elements of Spanish influence in materials like the tile and beams but also bring updated elements to the space that show both the importance of beautiful materials and casual living."

The original structure was built in 1951 then remodeled and combined with an additional home and lot next door. "The architecture of this home is classic Spanish with some modern elements and layout to update the functionality of the home," says Gullion. This aesthetic was maintained in the kitchen makeover, but it was updated with a cleaner, more streamlined design.

"When working on a home that is being remodeled in every aspect, the challenge usually resides within the incredible amount of details that have to be accounted for and coordinated," explains Gullion. "Happily, the client and interior designer were an absolute dream to work with."

"Our challenge was to help reflect the balance between a traditional Spanish space and an updated California modern feel," notes Gullion. Luckily, they were able to essentially start from scratch. "With the exception of a table that the client brought from a previous home, the kitchen was all-new everything," recounts Gullion.

"We wanted to bring a fresh and bright white kitchen to maintain a clean backdrop but elevate the formality of the space with attention to detail and the finest quality of cabinetry, appliances, hardware, and materials," explains Gullion. "The client is an active cook and loves to entertain, so it was important that we not only reflected the right aesthetic but that we also designed an exceptional plan that anticipated the needs of this active family."

"The interior designer on the project is the super-talented Darrell Wilson at Mark Weaver and Associates," notes Gullion. "With his direction and the client's input, we were able to pull the perfectly subtle milk-paint finish on the cabinetry to play with the more modern selection of black iron windows, classic white marble, and black stone tops."

"The key to the beauty of this space is the simplicity of the palette and letting a few elements of sparkle—polished nickel hardware and faucets and custom stainless hood—bring life to the space without overwhelming anything," says Gullion. "The square polished nickel hinges and latches on the cabinetry are an absolute knockout in this kitchen."

"The light and grandness of this kitchen are beautiful," notes Gullion. "It is a fresh but inviting space, and while there is a lot happening in terms of scale, multiple work zones, and a number of appliances within the space, it still feels comfortable. That huge island is a winner too!"

"The homeowners are a lovely and busy couple with children, grandchildren, and a house full of friends," describes Gullion. "They are busy running a company as well as coordinating home activities and entertaining. They cared about using very high-end materials that are true to the style of the home. The details were important to them and it is reflected in how inviting the home is."