Reader Rehab: A California Kitchen Gets a Mix of Old and New - Remodelista
Classical pianist Lara Downes and evolutionary biologist Rick Grosberg approached the renovation and expansion of their circa-1962 kitchen in Davis, California with a mutual desire to reimagine past works in contemporary ways. The couple began the overhaul in September, 2010 and completed it in December of the same year, nearly doubling the size of the original space. Downes describes the entire endeavor as something of which they are truly proud, one that "really changed our home and family life for the better." "After" photos by Rik Keller Photography. The couple wanted a bright and fresh area for cooking and had originally planned on adding one large skylight; for budgetary reasons, they opted for two instead. This option meant that standard-sized skylights could be used, ultimately saving the couple more than $10,000. The couple transformed the entire area into a communal place for their family of four to cook, eat, and gather. The kitchen is filled with an eclectic mix of discovered pieces. The island is a large stainless steel cart salvaged from a school's laboratory; the orange counter stools are also from an old lab and were re-painted at a local auto body shop. The far corner offered space for a second sink. Before the skylights were installed, the space had minimal natural daylight. Strategically placed open shelving offers quick access for cooking essentials; the range is an Aga 36-inch Pro. Grosberg in the former kitchen, which measured approximately 7 by 15 feet. The microwave, pantry items, serving dishes, and accessories are organized and accessible in the large, glass front cabinet shelves (another find from an old lab). A view of the back outdoor space, as seen when construction was underway.