Tabor Design Build recently worked with a family to correct a bit of a dysfunctionality they ‘inherited’ with the purchase of their Bethesda home. The homes in this area were built in the 40s and 50s, and not with the modern family in mind. Like so many families purchasing homes in this Bethesda neighborhood, this family was dealing with flow and functionality issues that had not been addressed. Although this particular kitchen had been remodeled by a previous owner in the 90s, it was clear to the Tabor team that layout, functionality and practicality were not dealt with in the original renovation.

The kitchen had a center peninsula that divided what could be a more open and larger space. The peninsula started next to the refrigerator and ended with a cook-top, leaving very little prep space (see photos). As if this wasn’t bad enough, the peninsula did not have an overhang on the countertop, which is generally used as a breakfast bar. Needless to say, this was not a family friendly kitchen.

To correct this layout disaster, the Tabor team removed the peninsula and installed an island with breakfast bar. The team also opted to change the layout, arranging the appliances in a manner more conducive to the families needs. While the space achieves the aesthetic element anyone wants from a remodeling project, it is now family friendly and functional.

“Remodeling is not just about the ‘pretty’,” says our in house designer, Peggy Card. “It’s also about making a space more functional.” Of course the space should incorporate the artistic sensibilities of the family using it. Still, purposeful design should be as much a part of the remodeling project, as the visual appeal of the selections chosen.

Peggy explains that often times people opt for the cheap builder, allowing their budget to heavily affect which company they decide to work with. “This is a risky practice,” says Peggy. “Builders or laborers rarely understand the necessary design elements that make a space functional. Even more serious, they don’t understand how to ensure a project is built to code and the integrity of the structure is intact. They may be cheaper, but quality usually isn’t the cheapest,” she says.

The situation this Bethesda family was in shows that remodeling shouldn’t just be beautiful, but also functional, with solid design incorporated. This is the benefit of selecting a design firm to build your project says Peggy. “With a design/build firm you get both. You get the beautiful design along with the peace of mind that your remodel is going to be functional and safe for years to come.”

Please see before and after photos below.