The Starting Point
When our homeowners came to us for their Contemporary kitchen in Deerfield, IL, they were ready for a new kitchen and already had a strong vision in mind. She knew she wanted a flat panel door, a contemporary look, and most importantly, a space that felt warm and calm.
From the very beginning, our role was to listen closely and translate that vision into a kitchen that felt open, organized, and intentionally designed around how they live every day.
Photo by Michael Alan Kaskel
Reworking the Layout
One of the biggest design improvements happened right away. We removed an underused desk area to extend the cooking zone, immediately giving the kitchen more breathing room. At the same time, we eliminated the raised breakfast bar, allowing the countertops to flow seamlessly into the breakfast area. This change opened up sightlines and made the entire space feel more connected and serene.
Traffic flow was also carefully addressed. The previous layout encouraged movement through the cooking area, creating congestion during everyday use and when guests were present. By rethinking placement and circulation, the kitchen now functions smoothly without interruptions, keeping the cooking zone clear and comfortable.
The cooking area was another key focus. In the original kitchen, a low microwave hood made it difficult to use taller pots and cookware comfortably. In the new design, a raised, contemporary hood provides proper clearance and improves both function and comfort. The expanded cooking zone now feels generous and easy to use.
After Photo by Michael Alan Kaskel
A Warm Contemporary Foundation
Slab door cabinetry in stained wood establishes a warm contemporary foundation throughout the space, exactly as the homeowner envisioned from the start. The clean lines feel modern, while the wood tone brings in the warmth she wanted. Subtle contrasting elements add depth without disrupting the calm aesthetic.
The expansive countertop surface now feels uninterrupted and open, and the waterfall edge on the peninsula provides a refined finishing touch. It adds just enough visual interest while reinforcing the kitchen’s clean, cohesive look.
Photo by Michael Alan Kaskel
Designed for Daily Living
Seating was thoughtfully planned to support how the homeowners actually use the space. The peninsula offers seating for three, while the island seats two. Although island seating was important initially, she now prefers sitting at the peninsula, where she can work on her laptop while enjoying a full view of the kitchen.
Storage throughout the kitchen was carefully customized to keep everything organized and within reach. The island includes dedicated space for knives, spices, waste and recycling, trays, platters, serving pieces, and a charging drawer, allowing countertops to remain clear and uncluttered.
Photos by Michael Alan Kaskel
The Coffee Cabinet
The true standout feature is the custom coffee cabinet. Coffee is a daily ritual for the homeowners, and previously all supplies lived out on the countertop. She wanted everything to be handy and convenient, but also completely put away when not in use.
The solution was a dedicated cabinet with customized shelf heights to accommodate the espresso machine, along with drawers and storage for all coffee and tea accessories. When closed, the cabinet blends seamlessly into the surrounding cabinetry, preserving the calm, organized feel of the kitchen.
After Photo by Michael Alan Kaskel
We are so happy that the homeowners love their new Contemporary kitchen in Deerfield, IL, and proud to have created a space that reflects her vision from the very start.
Three years later, I still absolutely LOVE my new kitchen. It is definitely my happy place, and I every time I cook or bake (which I love to do) in such a beautiful and efficient environment, I’m truly grateful for it.
Andrea (homeowner)