Queen Street, Philadelphia– Before the renovation, the dated kitchen was squeezed into a relatively small space at the rear of the home and lacked a dining area. The architect reconfigured the floorplan to move the kitchen to the more expansive front room (previously the family room). Swapping the spaces accommodates a more functional workspace in the kitchen complete with an island and dining area. Pale gray cabinets paired with a stacked stone backsplash and stormy gray quartz countertops give the kitchen a modern edge.

French doors connect the rear patio with the family room so that family living can easily flow from space to space, indoors to out.

Floating shelves offer clean-lined storage and display.

At the far end of the island, the inviting kitchen nook combines a modern loveseat, classic mid-century chairs, abstract artwork and a cheerful color scheme. The result is an inviting command post, conversation center and dining spot.

A pot filler located just above the range makes boiling water fast and easy.

Before the renovation, a flat-topped kneewall enclosed the stairway. It was replaced with a glass panel railing that contributes to the clean, modern interior.

Before The existing galley kitchen was crammed into the rear of the home and offered no dining area. Although cozy and inviting, the fireplace in the living room jutted into the room’s valuable square footage. After The kitchen and living room swapped spaces during the renovation and the fireplace was entirely removed in the interest of maximizing floor space. The reconfiguration gave the kitchen much-needed breathing room and also accommodated a cozy dining nook. In the renovated family room, a new gas fireplace is flanked by built-in bookcases that maximize functional storage and modern style.