Townhome Kitchen Transforms into an Open, Welcoming Space

Judy Dawson, owner of Designer Kitchens & Baths, redesigns this Honolulu kitchen.

When Judy Dawson, CKD first stepped into the kitchen of this Honolulu town home, it had dated blue and white tile countertops and all-white cabinetry with plastic pulls. The appliances were also in desperate need of an update, and the room was enclosed — making it seem even smaller than it was. Dawson used her expertise and more than 25 years of experience to create a brand-new, open-concept kitchen that the homeowners love.

First, the hallway and living room walls were removed, visually extending the space. Dawson also made sure to use space wisely by keeping appliances easily accessible but not taking up precious countertop real estate. The new kitchen has a pullout dishwasher drawer, pullout microwave drawer, side-opening oven below the cooktop and large full-extension drawers.

Replacing the existing water heater with an “on-demand” unit was a major space saver. The new unit is in a cabinet adjacent to a new desk, which can be converted into a wine bar.

Of course, Dawson did more than incorporate practical changes for functionality. She also revamped the room’s entire look, bringing its old-school style into 2018 with a mix of quartz countertops and a granite-covered island. “The opening at the end of the island is a perfect place to eat for one or two people and the red accents of the stools and shoe cabinet add a pop of color,” she says. “The kitchen now extends to the living room and lanai, making it a perfect space for entertaining while enjoying the view and the cross-through Hawaiian trade winds.”