Tuscan Transformation

Kitchen design and remodel by Drury Design, 512 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137, (630) 469-4980, www.drurydesigns.com

BEFORE

When a pair of empty nesters bought this Wheaton townhome, they intended to transform the space into their dream residence—which, they decided, would involve scrapping the existing kitchen in favor of a Tuscan-inspired room with a more open and inviting layout. As frequent entertainers, the homeowners also craved a kitchen that would lend itself to both cozy gatherings and large parties. The couple enlisted experts from Glen Ellyn Homes, Derrick Architecture, and Drury Design to spearhead the makeover.
“Bigger isn’t always better,” says designer Gladys Schanstra with Drury Design. “We wanted to create the illusion and function of a bigger space, and invest in quality materials.” With that in mind, the pros kicked off the renovation by opening up the floor plan. They removed two walls, and created a wraparound wet bar to serve as a connecting factor, uniting the kitchen with the adjoining sitting room and the rest of the open space.
In addition, to create a more elegant feel, the kitchen’s stock cabinets, builder-grade backsplash, and plain white walls were all upgraded with high-quality materials. The new backsplash is composed of a rustic cracked-glass mosaic, which helps to underscore the room’s rustic Tuscan vibe. One wall is now accented with natural-stone cladding (the stones pay homage to the facade of the fireplace in the adjoining room). Dark walnut flooring complements light Alder cabinetry, and recessed cubbies around the stovetop provide customized storage and a place for displaying decorative elements.  

Glen Ellyn Homes, www.glenellynhomesdesignbuild.com
Derrick Architecture, www.derrickarchitecture.com