The vision for this kitchen was to create a vibrant, highly functional space rooted in mid-century modern design while maximizing the home’s existing footprint. The original layout included both a kitchen and a formal dining room beside another dining area, leaving the kitchen cramped and the layout inefficient. The goal was to reallocate space to create a kitchen that felt generous, efficient, and full of personality.

Materiality played a central role in the design. Clear-coat white oak cabinetry grounds the room with warmth and authenticity, while green painted upper cabinets introduce bold color and contrast. Quartzite countertops bring natural movement and durability, paired with handmade Fireclay tile used on both the backsplash and vent hood to add texture and craftsmanship.

The island became the defining design move. Rather than forcing a square island into the available footprint—which would have restricted circulation—the project team designed a 60-inch round island in white oak. This sculptural centerpiece improves flow within the square space while reinforcing the home’s mid-century character. Pie-shaped drawers within the island provide clever storage, proving that the feature is as practical as it is striking.

Expanding the kitchen required eliminating one of the two adjacent dining spaces, allowing the remaining dining area to function more effectively while dramatically improving the kitchen’s usability.

The result is a warm, expressive kitchen that celebrates clean lines, natural materials, and thoughtful problem-solving—transforming a once-cramped layout into a spacious and inviting heart of the home.

Resources

Designer: Alex Huckins  Cabinetry: Parks Cabinets  Countertop Fabrication: Summit Stoneworks  Tile: Fireclay Tile  Tile Installation: Urban Tile & Stone   Lighting: Visual Comfort; Cedar and Moss  Hardwood Flooring: SVB Wood Floors  Plumbing Fixtures: Grandview Winnelson

Designer

Orion Design

Contractor

MSC Enterprises

Photographer

Bob Greenspan

Floor plans and drawings

Additional 2026 Winning Projects

3407 — Showroom

Commercial Space Showroom Conceived as a sophisticated, high-functioning environment that fully embodies the company’s brand, this showroom immerses clients in an elevated aesthetic. More than a display floor, it serves

View Project »

3373 — Napa Bistro

Design Detail Napa Bistro Custom blown rondel stained-glass panels were created for key locations throughout the restaurant to evoke the refined ambiance of high-end Italian dining. Working closely with the

View Project »

3824 — Colonial Icon

Historic Renovation Colonial Icon Originally built in 1911, this Colonial estate underwent a comprehensive renovation designed to restore its historic integrity while adapting the home for modern family life. The

View Project »

3425 — Cat’s Meow

Interior Project: Multi-Space Cat’s Meow Originally envisioned as a kitchen refresh and exterior update, the project evolved into a full reimagining of the home’s public spaces. The goal was to

View Project »

3623 — Collector’s Cottage

Design Detail Collector’s Cottage A Delft-influenced tile backsplash transforms a traditional detail into a storytelling element. Rather than simply sourcing existing Delft tiles, the designers set out to create something

View Project »

3551 — Suburban Staycation

Outdoor Living Space + Pool Suburban Staycation After moving back to Kansas City from Seattle, this young couple wanted their newly purchased home to reflect their lifestyle and long-term vision.

View Project »