“ The homeowner ’ s daily routine included microwaving her coffee mug and then placing coffee in it ,” Souza says . “ I recommended a warming drawer to keep her mugs in and a built-in coffee maker above it . Below is a bar fridge for their favorite creamers and milks .”
Another large task involved eliminating the obtrusive wall between the kitchen and dining room in order to allow each space to breathe and naturally flow into one another . Knowing an LVL — a . k . a . laminated veneer lumber , a high-strength engineered wood product used for permanent structural applications — would be needed in its stead , Souza designed a custom walnut beam to conceal the addition and frame the entry . Just beyond , the dining room likewise saw a few upgrades .
“ The floor tile had been an orange color , which we changed to the blue / gray wood flooring ,” Souza explains . “ I also added a table with a walnut top to bring the whole design together .”
This overall redesign also includes a mudroom attached to the opposite end of the kitchen . Here she added blue shiplap to match the wood range hood just around the corner , as well as panels behind the custom walnut shelving in the corner .
“ I also added cabinetry for more storage and cubbies with a walnut top where people can sit and put on shoes .”
Now , thanks to Souza and the Kitchen Views team , this family can happily come together , no matter if they ’ re enjoying their new dining room , kitchen or mudroom . ◆
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