A busy kitchen tends to be the gathering place of a home so one that is welcoming and efficient is key in making it a usable space. With help from Brush Strokes Inc. (uniquebrushstrokes.com) this Folsom home received an upgrade that transformed their kitchen into the focus of the home.

The homeowners were eager to upgrade because of the possibilities. “The chance to take a cramped, dysfunctional, and dark space and make it into an efficient, light, and airy environment that the whole family could enjoy [was exciting],” shares Jane Reed, co-owner of Brush Strokes Inc.

New cabinets, countertops, floors, lighting, appliances, and windows were all on the docket for this remodel. Dated oak cabinets and tiled countertops were replaced with bright, white cabinets featuring soft-closing drawers and doors, and a gorgeous white ice granite countertop. Cabinet organizers and rollouts were also installed to maximize space. Plenty of storage and a large island were a priority. “They wanted lots of storage, a large island that could fit all their grandchildren, and plenty of space for entertaining,” says Reed. The oven was moved, and a desk area removed to make way for floor-to-ceiling cabinetry; the island remodeled with an overhang allowing counter-height seating for eager onlookers.