Too Much Stuff, Too Little Space
Moraga, California
Scope: This compact condo kitchen had far too little storage for kitchen supplies and staple foods. A raised peninsula separated it from the dining area, creating a cramped “U”-shaped workspace suitable for only one cook. The breakfast nook had built-in seating along two walls, but it wasn’t used as a banquette. A corner China cabinet served as overflow storage. Combined, these elements made the space feel cluttered, with very little usable countertop for meal preparation.
To solve the storage and space challenges, we designed an open kitchen filled with smart cabinet accessories and added a new prep island. The adjoining dining area now features a dry sink flanked by two tall pantry cabinets with pull-outs, providing easy access to staple foods. The dry sink also doubles as the perfect coffee bar for the homeowners.
The homeowner chose a navy blue and white color scheme to coordinate with a new Five Star gas range, echoed in the backsplash and floor tile from Arizona Tile. Custom cabinets feature decorative panels on the back and sides, along with beaded shaker doors and drawers. Coved crown molding tops the upper cabinets, eliminating dust-catching gaps. The island boasts a custom stainless-steel worktop for easy cleaning, while the quartz countertops complement the simple white cabinetry and bold tile design.
To free up counter space, the microwave was relocated to a recessed niche in the pantry, conveniently close to the refrigerator for quick snack prep. In the bay window, a beautiful quartz sink paired with a brushed brass faucet serves as a stunning focal point—adding the perfect finishing touch to this stylish and functional kitchen transformation.
Features:
- Countertop: Arizona Tile Bella Quartz – Bianco Pearl
- Kitchen Sink: Franke – Ellipse Granite -Color: Onyx
- Faucet: Kohler Graze Semi-Professional – Vibrant Modern Brushed Brass
- Backsplash Tile: Sonoma Tile Makers Hustle Series – Billboard Hex
- Floor Tile: Arizona Tile – Paros Series Hex
- Range: BlueStar Platinum 30” Gas
- Range Hood: Zline Convertible Island Vent Hood
- Refrigerator: Kitchen Aid French Door – Counter Depth
- Dishwasher: Bosch 24” Pocket Handle
Designer: Carol Carey
Lead Craftsman: Matt Keesis, CRPM
Client Testimonial: “I had a boring, outdated kitchen with a crapy electric stove, a sink in the wrong place, an old laminate floor, and cabinets that didn’t close. Carol and Morris Carey spent a lot of time designing the perfect working kitchen, and James and Morris put together the ideal team of craftsmen to bring it to life. They also remodeled our Master bedroom with a walk-in shower and a warm floor. Their attention to detail is unmatched, and I will always be grateful to them for treating me like family and helping me realize my dream kitchen and bath.” -Dave & Anna W.
Before & After





