A young couple with children wanted their kitchen to reflect both the home’s character of their personal style. Preserving the house’s authenticity was important to them, but they also wanted to introduce their own preferences through thoughtful design choices. Natural, honest materials, improved storage, and a highly functional layout were top priorities as they envisioned a space that felt true to the home while supporting their growing family’s everyday routines.

With children of different ages, the kitchen needed to accommodate constant activity and movement. The family wanted plenty of room for kids to gather, pass through, and participate in daily life without the space feeling cramped. At the same time, the kitchen had to deliver comfort, efficiency, and durability for everyday use while maintaining a beautiful, cohesive aesthetic that complemented the rest of the home.

A completely reimagined layout transformed the space. By relocating windows and the exterior door, the design opened up new possibilities for circulation, light, and functionality. The new plan created a more generous and organized kitchen that allows multiple family members to use the space comfortably at the same time. The result is a kitchen that balances beauty and practicality—an inviting hub where the family can cook, gather, and move easily throughout the day.

   

Designer

Karin Ross Designs

Photographer

Randy Van

Before Photos

Floor plans and drawings

Additional 2026 Winning Projects

3412 — Roo Plaza

Public Place Roo Plaza UMKC’s undulating urban campus is both picturesque and compact, a gem nestled in the heart of Kansas City. With limited space available, Landscape Architect Matt Evett

View Project »

3480 — Simple Elegance

Outdoor Living Space + Pool Simple Elegance The goal of this project was to transform an aging backyard into a modern retreat for the next generation. The existing lagoon-style pool

View Project »

3806 — Tomahawk Creek Estates

Redesigned Residence 3,001-6,000 sq ft Tomahawk Creek Estates This European-inspired home was beautifully constructed with high-quality materials, but dark, heavy finishes made the spaces feel outdated. The new owners wanted

View Project »

3517 — Zen Spa Haven

Bathroom—Primary Zen Spa Haven The vision for this primary bath and bedroom suite was to create a serene retreat defined by calm, clarity, and quiet luxury. The homeowner imagined a

View Project »

3696 — The Hideout

Design Detail The Hideout What used to be a forgotten storage closet under the stairs is now one of the most-loved spots in the home. This little hideout feels special

View Project »

3622 — Collector’s Cottage

Bathroom—Primary Collector’s Cottage The homeowners wanted their new primary bathroom to feel spacious, personal, and connected to a true suite experience. Key wishlist items included a freestanding tub, the use

View Project »

3515 — Stud to Stardom

Kitchen—more than 300 sq ft Stud to Stardom The homeowners sought a space that balanced modern functionality with timeless craftsmanship. The challenge was to integrate two distinct features—a walk-in pantry

View Project »

3439 — Showhouse Speakeasy

Historic Renovation Showhouse Speakeasy The Speakeasy celebrates the secretive charm of Kansas City’s Prohibition era, creating a hidden retreat designed for entertaining and escape. Descending the stairs, guests are transported

View Project »