A Culturally-Inspired Focal Point
Mary and Scott loved their East Lansing home, but their kitchen no longer reflected their lifestyle. The brick fireplace, once a charming feature, had become a design challenge, and the layout limited cooking, entertaining, and family gatherings.
They dreamed of a kitchen that was warm, inviting, and full of personality, incorporating vibrant colors, textures, and details inspired by their travels and their love for Mexican culture. Their goal: a space that honored the home’s character while improving function and flow.
The project’s lead designer, Dianna Corsi, guided the Hansons through a design process that balanced aesthetics and practicality. Key choices included: celebrating the fireplace, integrating color and texture from their travels, selecting detailed cabinetry hardware, and rethinking the layout for storage, prep, and movement.
Because the home was older, Field Supervisor Adam anticipated challenges like thick plaster walls, uneven framing, and nonstandard dimensions. Planning ahead ensured the remodel would accommodate these quirks while staying true to the couple’s vision.
Our team adapted to the home’s unique conditions throughout construction. Removing plaster revealed uneven walls and old framing techniques, requiring small adjustments to cabinet layouts, window installations, and insulation.
With some of the unique challenges presented by the age of the home, the project took longer than initially anticipated. In the end, this kitchen was transformed: the fireplace became a charming centerpiece, vibrant colors and thoughtful details reflected their personality, and the space was both functional and inviting. Despite the expected challenges and a slightly longer timeline, the remodel delivered a kitchen that perfectly fit their lifestyle!
