A Kitchen Remodel Story: Bulkheads Begone!

Posted by Ben Thompson on 08.29.16

Several decades ago, it was commonplace to install hanging kitchen cabinets that could be accessed from two sides. Typically they would be hung beneath a bulkhead and would partially block the view in and out of the kitchen.  In the case of this Grand Rapids remodeling story, the kitchen included this design element as well as bulkheads above all of the cabinets and doorways. Our clients requested a design that would make their kitchen feel more connected to the rest of their home.

THE BEFORE

kitchen with bulkheads Before photo of kitchen.

Bulkheads in the kitchen were blocking the flow of light and minimizing usable cabinet space.  Even though the cabinets were light oak and the counters were white, the space felt really dark.  The homeowners wanted to lighten the space and requested simple, clean finishes.

Existing kitchen. Existing kitchen.

IMG_0370 Existing refrigerator.

THE AFTER

hickory kitchen cabinets

We removed all the bulkheads and extended the kitchen cabinets to the ceiling along the walls. With the elimination of the hanging cabinets, the kitchen now feels connected to the dining area and there is a clear view to the deck and yard through the window and the sliding door. A new microwave is placed below the counter to free up wall space for more cabinets.

IMG_9550Shaker style cabinets were selected in a natural hickory finish on the bottom and a white painted finish for the top.  For the countertops, we installed a budget friendly Wilsonart textured laminate that has the same look as quartz. An engineered hickory floor looks fantastic with the new cabinetry and is super easy to maintain and clean.

IMG_9548Spacious pantry cabinets are placed conveniently next to the refrigerator and offer lots of storage.


Our ultimate goal is to help clients Love Where They Live. Every Thompson Remodeling project is a customized solution to capture each individual client's needs and vision. If your kitchen is outdated and not functioning the way you need it to please give us a call.

 

Topics: Love Where You Live, Kitchens, bulkheads, kitchen remodel, remodeling grand rapids mi, thompsonremodeling.com, kitchen cabinets, thompson remodeling grand rapids mi