When we first met this client, they had a wish list that included very nice material selections and an entirely new and modern feeling kitchen space. The key to implementing the desired new space was dependant on removing the old kitchen walls and creating a seamless design that flowed and didn’t compete architecturally. Upon early inspection, we determined that the old kitchen walls could be removed, however, a column would need to remain for structural, plumbing and air handling reasons. Immediately we went to work incorporating that column into an elegant, open doorway. The old kitchen had three points of entry and egress, and we knew that one would have to be eliminated to create enough wall space for refrigeration, ovens and cooking ventilation. As we looked at the options it became apparent that we should close in one doorway creating a recess for the refrigerator on the kitchen side and a boot-bench-style mudroom area on the other. The open final plan was embellished with beams for visual interest and to draw the guests from the foyer over to the massive island capable of seating 8 while not interfering with the basic work triangle. Walnut flooring was used to incorporate the old and new space and also became the foot rest behind the island. Finally, 3” thick marble tops become the main focal point. While the kitchen has beams, crown moulding and traditional columns and architecture, we installed modern cabinetry handles and Stainless Steel appliances to create a design that “transitions” traditional and modern style.