A Kitchen That Evolved Over Time
Some kitchen transformations happen all at once—this one came together in two parts. We first worked with these homeowners to brighten their existing kitchen through professional cabinet refinishing and a remodeled island. Later that same year, they were ready to take the transformation even further, returning to CCFF for new countertops, backsplash, and additional updates that brought the entire space together.



BEFORE | A Traditional Kitchen Ready for a Change
The original kitchen featured rich brown cabinetry, granite countertops, a coordinating tile backsplash, and a dark island. While the existing layout offered plenty of cabinetry and functional storage, the darker finishes made the room feel heavier and more traditional. Rather than replacing everything, the homeowners’ first goal was to brighten and update the space while making use of many of the kitchen’s existing elements.



PHASE ONE | Cabinet Refinishing + Island Remodel
The kitchen’s first transformation centered around creating a lighter, brighter look. The existing brown cabinetry was professionally refinished in white, immediately changing the feel of the entire room. The perimeter granite countertops and backsplash remained, allowing the homeowners to make a significant visual update without undergoing a complete remodel.



The island received a larger transformation. It was remodeled and finished in a soft blue tone, creating contrast against the newly white cabinetry, and topped with a fresh white quartz countertop. The combination introduced a lighter, more current color palette while giving the island a distinct presence at the center of the kitchen. This first phase shows just how dramatically cabinet refinishing and a few strategic updates can transform an existing space.

PHASE TWO | A Full Kitchen Remodel
When the homeowners were ready to update their kitchen again, they returned to CCFF to take the transformation even further. This time, the project expanded beyond the cabinetry and island. New white quartz countertops were carried throughout the kitchen, replacing the original granite and creating a brighter, more cohesive surface from the perimeter to the island. The original backsplash was also replaced with a blue tile installed in an offset pattern, introducing subtle color, texture, and movement while tying into the blue island. Under-cabinet lighting was added to illuminate the new backsplash and countertops, bringing another layer of warmth and functionality to the space.




Details We Love:
- Bright white cabinetry
- Soft blue island that adds contrast and character
- White quartz countertops carried throughout the finished space
- Blue offset tile backsplash for subtle color and movement
- Under-cabinet lighting
- Stainless steel backsplash extended across the range wall for a clean, cohesive look
- Functional storage incorporated into the remodeled island
- A transformation completed in two distinct phases
From the Original Kitchen to Today
Looking at all three stages side by side shows just how much this kitchen has evolved, from its original dark wood finishes, to a bright cabinet refinish and statement island, to the polished, fully remodeled space it is today. What makes this project especially meaningful is having the opportunity to work with the same homeowners through multiple chapters of their home. Their first project gave the kitchen an entirely new look, and their return to CCFF allowed us to build upon that transformation and create a space that better reflects their style today.



Designed by: Carla Schmidt
Carla is a passionate and innovative designer that specializes in bathroom design known for transforming functional spaces into luxurious retreats. Specializing in creating both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional bathrooms with timeless elegance to suit every client’s unique vision. Drawing inspiration from both modern and classic styles, Carla crafts designs that enhance comfort and elevate the space. Her attention to detail and ability to optimize space ensure each project is executed to perfection. From layout and materials to lighting and fixtures, Carla works closely with clients to create bathrooms that blend beauty, practicality, and personal style.


