A Condo Kitchen Remodel to Entertain Two or 20

Condo remodel projects present their own set of challenges, but Tina Marie Margrander of Tina Marie Interiors was up for the task with this investorpurchased project. Her goal was to offer a finished result that maximizes the unit’s 20th-floor views and allows owners and guests alike to feel comfortable in a space that is coastal without screaming “beach cottage.”

Working with the architect and Houchin Construction, Tina set out to create a floor plan that would make the spaces feel bigger and more inviting, while tackling issues related to condo living and remodeling. The kitchen offered structural challenges. “There were some existing conditions that were not readily available to us when we were designing,” says Tina. “It’s not uncommon when you’re dealing with condos—not every wall is able to come down. You really have to think things through.”

When plumbing pipes and electrical structures could not be relocated, Tina applied her creativity to find a suitable solution. Relocating the breakfast bar to accommodate existing plumbing was one such solution. Additionally, the diminutive eight-foot, three-inch ceiling height created problems and ultimately directed Tina’s design aesthetic for the space. “We wanted to make sure all the finishes felt as bright as possible, so you didn’t notice you had only eight feet, three inches for your ceiling,” says Tina. “By keeping the walls in the white tones, the trim fresh and light tones on the wood elements, we were able to bring a sense of warmth to the space, but not in a way that makes it feel dark or heavy.”

Custom-finished cabinetry by John Jewell, Inc., is presented in two different tones—a white custom paint and a wood tone that is a glazed, riftcut white oak and color matched to the wood floor. Quartz counter- tops mingle with the tile backsplash, which is a mosaic design of three materials—brass metal, painted glass and marble. “This adds a little bit of gloss and a little bit of sparkle,” says Tina. “Rather than getting too fancy with a color for the backsplash, I did a geometric tone-on-tone that is more classic and appealing.”

Lighting above the 66- by 121-inch breakfast island is a linear Kichler design from Lighting First of Naples. The champagne gold fixture is 38 inches overhead and provides simple lines, but with more interest than a typical island light. Eight counter stools offer plenty of seating to entertain. “I work on making the house feel comfortable and inviting with enough room for 20 people or two,” said Tina. “I want the place to work for the people staying regularly, but with amenities that are thought out and planned for when additional people stay, whether for a quick visit or an extended period.”

The island has plenty of storage on its underside, with touch-latch hardware. Since the views from the generous windows are a main feature, Tina did not want to distract with a lot of upper cabinetry. Appliances tie in seamlessly with white paneling, and include a full-size wine tower, refrigerator and separate freezer.

“I honestly think that the kitchen turned out so pretty,” says Tina. “By taking advantage of all the windows and opening things up, you don’t feel disconnected from the rest of the unit or from the views to the outside.”

Resource:

Tina Marie Interiors, LLC

Tina Marie Margrander

28410 Bonita Crossings Boulevard

Unit 270

Bonita Springs, FL 34135

239.301.085 tinamarie-interiors.com