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Lori’s Kitchen Renovation:
Honoring the Past, Present & Future
When Lori set out to renovate her 1940s ranch-style home, the project was as much about preserving cherished memories as embracing modern functionality. At the heart of her kitchen renovation is a charming nod to her grandmother: a vintage metal stool needing a dedicated space to give it a new purpose. Her designer, Ruth Ann, also planned to open the space to better suit Lori's needs.
Lori and Ruth Ann share a unique bond that spans generations. Their grandparents and families were close friends in Rocky Mount, NC; Lori's mother even served as Ruth Ann's nurse. This deep-rooted friendship made Ruth Ann the perfect partner to help Lori transform her forever home.
A Kitchen Reimagined:
From Galley to Gathering Space
When Ruth Ann first stepped into Lori's kitchen, she was met with a common challenge: a cramped galley layout that no longer served the homeowner's needs. The designer's keen eye immediately saw the potential for transformation by creating a unified space that would not only improve functionality but also foster togetherness.
"I was trying to figure out how to unite this kitchen and make it a singular space that has a great triangle and a great working space, and then a good entertaining space over in the corner for dining in and hanging out where everybody could be in the one room together."
To achieve this vision, Ruth Ann took bold steps:
- Removing an entire wall to open up the space
- Relocating and resizing the window
- Repositioning key appliances to create an efficient work triangle
- Removing a peninsula and enhancing accessibility at the back door
- Converting an old closet into a stylish bar area
- Removing the unsightly attic access from the ceiling
The result? A kitchen that flows seamlessly, inviting conversation and connection. "We just took this whole wall out and then moved the window. We shortened the window and put the sink over here, and then that put the range here and the fridge over there, making a really good triangle," Ruth Ann proudly describes.
Preserving Cherished Memories While Embracing Modern Functionality
One of the most heartwarming aspects of this kitchen renovation is how it incorporates elements of Lori's family history. The centerpiece of this nostalgic touch is a vintage stool that holds deep sentimental value for Lori.
"I have a fantastic memory of my grandmother sitting on that stool in her kitchen over and over again. She was a tiny woman. And the stool has become smaller and smaller as I look at it. But she had it in her kitchen, and it's a huge reminder of her. She loved to cook, and she loved to have people in her kitchen."
Rather than relegating this treasured piece to storage or using it as decoration, Ruth Ann saw an opportunity to give it new life and purpose. She proposed creating a dedicated space for the stool, integrating it seamlessly into the new kitchen design. This thoughtful inclusion allows Lori to honor her grandmother's memory while also enjoying a functional element in her modern kitchen.
Lori’s previous charging setup with exposed cords and device clutter distracted from her family heirlooms.
Lori’s installed Docking Drawer Blade outlet, neatly tucking away her devices and charging cords and eliminating countertop clutter.
Every Home Has a Story, and Docking Drawer
is Here to Power It
In this beautifully redesigned kitchen, the past and present come together in perfect harmony, powered by innovative technology. The vintage stool, now a charming kitchen drop zone, is enhanced by installing a Docking Drawer Blade outlet. This clever integration of old and new exemplifies how modern solutions can complement and elevate cherished items from the past.
Lori enthusiastically describes the convenience of this new feature:
"I have charging in my hallway, charging in my living room. And so now I'm able to have all my charging together, which makes sense because when I'm not using my laptop, it's in the Docking Drawer. It's so convenient and just nice to have because I'll just grab my laptop and bring it over here. So that works out perfectly."
The Blade outlet not only provides a practical charging solution but also helps to keep the newly opened kitchen space clutter-free. By tucking away cords and devices, the in-drawer outlet maintains the clean lines of the kitchen renovation while offering the functionality that modern life demands.
A Space That Evolves with Changing Needs
This renovation wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about creating a space that could adapt to Lori's changing needs. Ruth Ann's design addressed these practical concerns while also solving the flow issues of the original galley kitchen. "When she used to come in this door right here, the cooktop was almost immediately in the way," Ruth Ann points out. The new layout eliminates this problem, creating a more welcoming and functional entry point.
Lori’s cluttered entryway before the kitchen renovation.
Lori’s remodeled kitchen entryway.
The Heart of the Home: Where Everyone Gathers
One of the main drivers for this renovation was the universal truth about kitchens: they're where people naturally congregate. Lori reflects on this, saying, "When you have a galley kitchen, everybody wants to be in the kitchen. Everybody wants to be in the kitchen, no matter what kind of kitchen you have. But people would get caught in the kitchen space."
The new open-concept design solves this problem beautifully. Now, the kitchen can comfortably accommodate friends and family, allowing Lori to cook and entertain without feeling cramped or isolated. The space encourages interaction and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that honors the social nature of cooking and dining.
Designing for the Future:
Anticipating Tomorrow's Needs
While this kitchen renovation beautifully addresses Lori's current needs, it also looks ahead to the future. As our reliance on electronic devices continues to grow, having a dedicated, safe charging station in the kitchen becomes increasingly important.
The integration of the Docking Drawer Blade Duo is a perfect example of this future-focused design. Our in-drawer outlets are intentionally designed to allow outlet ports to be swapped out as technology advances, so Lori's kitchen will be prepared for tomorrow's technological demands without having to install all new outlets in her drawers in the future.
Inspiring Others to Preserve and Progress
Lori and Ruth Ann's collaboration serves as an inspiration for homeowners and designers alike. It encourages us to look at our spaces with fresh eyes, considering how we can:
- Preserve and repurpose cherished items
- Improve functionality without sacrificing character
- Incorporate modern technology in subtle, elegant ways
- Create spaces that bring people together
- Design with both present needs and future possibilities in mind
This kitchen renovation project demonstrates the transformative power of thoughtful design. By carefully considering both Lori's practical needs and emotional desires, Ruth Ann has created a space that is more than just a kitchen—it's a testament to family history, a hub for modern living, and a space prepared for future needs.
Feeling inspired? Explore more customer projects and our most popular in-drawer solutions to start planning your next project.