Expanding Without Excessive Expense

Kitchen renovation by Inspired Interiors, 4124 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60618, (773) 728-0419, www.inspiredinterior.com 

The heart of the home is known to be in the kitchen, but this Ravenswood family was finding it difficult to spend time there, whether sharing a meal or doing homework. Taking down a dividing wall between the kitchen and living room in the vintage home seemed to do the trick, creating a multi-functional area enjoyed by both the young and old family members. “The fireplace, previously visible only from the living room, is now the focal point, joining together the living room, open-concept kitchen, entertainment area and work space,” explains Emily Mackie of Inspired Interiors in Chicago. “We also custom designed the two-tiered island with a cooking zone and an eating zone. Yes, the table is permanently attached to the island—and to the floor. This space-saving innovation delivered on two often-conflicting homeowner requests: free up floor space and increase storage.”

The kitchen was made even more unique via the use of exquisite handmade tiles from a craftswoman in California, adding what Mackie describes as, “a subtle oomph to the kitchen backsplash.” Keeping the appliances and sink in the same locations was a budget-friendly move, along with builder-grade cabinets featuring custom details. “In today’s market, there are many ways in which homeowners can take advantage of inexpensive materials and make a powerful visual impact with other details, while still coming in on budget.”