Lemon Aid

June 27, 2024

A soured kitchen enjoys a refreshing twist on glam style and functional upgrades.

Words by Gloria Gale | Photos by Courtney Marie Productions

hen life hands you lemons...call Meredith Lemons, a local pro who knows a thing or two about good design. That’s precisely what happened when Matt and Mea Watson needed a talented designer who could tackle an extensive renovation project within the couple’s suburban home.

“Our 20-year-old house needed serious updating,” says Matt, adding that the focus was on an outdated kitchen and primary bathroom.

Meredith, owner of Lemonhouse Interiors, found the kitchen’s previous Tuscan style dated and far too dark for the young family.

“Right from the beginning, I knew that a tearout—literally down to the studs—was called for,” she explains. “I wanted the Watsons to visualize the changes, so I had renderings drawn up. They agreed to move forward [with] renovating the kitchen into an expansive space where this large family with five children could gather.”

In addition to being beautiful, with a luxury range and elegant white quartzite on the island top and backsplash, the space is ergonomically well-designed. Once hindered by impractical bar-height countertops, the now-reconfigured room features countertops low enough for Mea to enjoy cooking in comfort. The adjacent mudroom and pantry—two spaces reconfigured from the old kitchen design—further enhance the workflow.

Meredith utilized a black-and-white monochromatic scheme to increase an uninterrupted visual flow.

“These design elements, plus the luxurious glass-accented bar area that was once a play space, give the couple an integrated area to gather while everyone stays out of Mea’s way,” she explains.

Once the kitchen renovation was complete, Meredith proceeded with a design solution to revamp the couple’s primary bathroom. Like the kitchen, that renovation was a complete tearout, resulting in a freshly polished and bright, spa-appointed interior.

Previously, the bathroom was a dated space with pillars and unfashionable cabinets. The room now showcases a black-and-white color scheme, highlighted by handsome dual vanities, his-and-hers toilets and a large zero-entry shower with a quartz bench.

Throughout the renovation, the couple anticipated a job well done and knew it was worth the wait.

“This was a big job, but I count it as a mission accomplished,” Meredith says.

A joyful kitchen and elegant bath are now in place, making the family’s day-to-day all the more delightful.

Interior Designer: Lemonhouse Interiors, @lemonhousekc