This Kirkland home, had a sturdy foundation but felt dated in layout and style. Thornberg Construction stepped in to reshape the kitchen, living room, and outdoor area in a way that supports daily life without feeling like an overdone showpiece. The homeowners wanted a fresh, welcoming environment built around the essentials: a bright kitchen, a modernized living room, and a more purposeful outdoor space. Their vision centered on practicality, while also moving away from cramped hallways and disjointed spaces. With their input, Thornberg Construction created a renovation plan that introduced cleaner lines, updated finishes, and a sense of continuity from room to room.
Our goal became clear: preserve the home’s reliable bones while incorporating design features that align with modern living. This approach respects the past but welcomes the family’s future.
In an early meeting, the homeowners listed priorities to guide the renovation. They wanted:
These goals directed each step of the redesign, from the initial teardown to the finishing touches.
The kitchen’s transformation is one of the most noticeable changes. The homeowners specifically requested a bright look that would stay appealing over time. They felt white cabinets offered a crisp, clean feel without being trendy in a way that might go out of style next year.
To balance things out, the countertops and backsplash feature light neutral shades, avoiding a monochromatic kitchen but maintaining a cohesive look. Black pulls and knobs, along with subtle decorative trim, tie the cabinets together.
Ample storage mattered to the homeowners. They wanted deep drawers for pots and pans, plus enough space for any baking supplies and smaller appliances. We extended some cabinets to the ceiling, providing room for items used less often. An island was added for extra prep space and casual seating. If family members want to hang out or do homework, they can do so right where the action is, instead of being banished to a separate table.
Next to the kitchen stands the living room. The homeowners loved the idea of a modern fireplace. The homeowners also opted for an energy-efficient fireplace insert, reducing draft and preventing heat loss. A standard hearth was still included, but in a sleeker style that visually matches the rest of the living space. By repositioning some furniture and removing parts of a dividing wall, the living room now feels part of the central flow. Guests can talk to someone in the kitchen without raising their voice, and parents can watch their kids more easily.
The backyard was a blank slate. Thornberg recommended a deck that extended out from the main back entrance, forming a larger platform for gatherings. This addition required moderate excavation and grading to ensure stable footings, especially given the local soil composition in Kirkland. Once the ground was prepared, we used solid wood decking boards that blend with the home’s style.
By creating a more level surface, we’ve allowed for easy placement of outdoor seating and a grill station. A simple railing design surrounds the deck, ensuring child safety and giving the space a finished look. Steps descend to the yard, making it a clear extension of indoor living. Now, the family can host barbecues or let the kids run freely between the deck and inside areas without worrying about cramped doorways or tripping hazards.
When you’re ready to discuss ideas for your renovation, give us a call. We’re here to walk you through possibilities, show you examples of similar work, and collaborate on a vision that matches how you live day to day.
