A recent kitchen renovation in a 1900s Chicago bungalow demonstrates how a dated space can be revitalized with color, pattern, and smart design. Designer Crystal Blackshaw of Crystal Blackshaw Interiors led the transformation of a drab 1990s kitchen into a vibrant “grandmillennial” style space, tailored to a newly blended family. The project highlights not just aesthetic changes, but also the importance of structural integrity and maximizing functionality in older homes.
Addressing the Bones First
Blackshaw stresses that successful renovations start with essential repairs. In this case, leveling the subfloor and replacing windows were necessary steps before any decorative work could begin. Addressing these underlying issues ensures a solid foundation for the rest of the design, a detail often overlooked but critical in older properties. The team also uncovered a hidden window, which was then fitted with custom stained glass, further enhancing the natural light.
Embracing the Grandmillennial Aesthetic
The client desired a fresh, bright interior reflecting her family’s new chapter. Blackshaw delivered by layering color, pattern, and functionality. The design centers around a cream and lavender palette, featuring an iridescent zellige tile backsplash, pink-and-gray stone countertops, and Annie Selke hex tiles. This maximalist approach creates a whimsical yet inviting atmosphere.
Strategic Storage Solutions
Given the kitchen’s limited footprint (350 square feet), maximizing storage was paramount. The team installed custom cabinetry reaching the ceiling, utilizing vertical space efficiently. Corner cabinets with pull-out mechanisms and tall pantries were integrated, alongside a dedicated garbage drawer. A key decision involved an Etsy-sourced farmhouse island, where Blackshaw opted for open storage to avoid a cramped feel, instead finding alternative storage solutions elsewhere.
Appliances and Finishing Touches
Matte white CAFÉ appliances were chosen to lighten the look, complementing the lavender color scheme. Wallpaper and fabrics from vendors like Kravet, Fabricut, and Schumacher added softness and texture. Paint colors included Farrow & Ball’s Calluna No. 270 for cabinets and Benjamin Moore’s Simply White (OC-117) for trim, with hardware sourced from House of Antique Hardware to maintain consistency.
The Result: A Functional and Joyful Space
The renovated kitchen maintains its original layout but feels significantly larger and brighter. The blend of color, texture, and clever storage creates a personality-packed space that meets the client’s needs. The project underscores the power of trusting a designer’s vision, allowing for bolder choices that elevate the final result.
This transformation serves as a reminder that even minor structural changes, when combined with thoughtful design, can breathe new life into an outdated kitchen, creating a functional and joyful heart of the home.
