The Vision
The motivation behind this project was rooted in both function and aesthetics. The home’s existing layout included a narrow galley kitchen that limited movement and created visual barriers between rooms. A pass-through window between the kitchen and the adjacent living space partially blocked the view toward Puget Sound, preventing the homeowners from fully enjoying one of the home’s most valuable features.
Although the house had beautiful architectural elements typical of mid-century design, the kitchen layout had become inefficient for everyday use. Counter space was limited, storage was not optimized, and the positioning of appliances disrupted the natural flow of the room.
The homeowners wanted to address these issues without completely abandoning the original design language of the home. Their goal was not to create a dramatically modern aesthetic but rather to update the space in a way that felt appropriate for the house’s era.
By removing the pass-through opening and reworking the kitchen layout, the design team was able to significantly improve both functionality and sightlines. The new configuration allows the kitchen to feel more open while strengthening its connection to the surrounding living spaces.
Together, these updates created a cohesive improvement that enhanced daily living without overwhelming the home’s original character.
Kitchen
Originally configured as a tight galley kitchen, the space felt enclosed and disconnected from the surrounding living areas.
Removing that pass-through was one of the most impactful design decisions of the project. Once the wall was opened, the kitchen immediately felt more connected to the rest of the home, allowing natural light and views to extend into the space.
The appliance layout was also reimagined to improve both workflow and visual balance. The cooktop was relocated to a new peninsula, allowing the person cooking to face outward toward the living area and the view beyond. This simple shift dramatically improved the experience of using the kitchen, transforming cooking from an isolated task into a more social and connected activity.
To preserve the open sightlines, a flush-to-the-ceiling Zephyr hood was installed above the cooktop. Unlike traditional range hoods, which can create visual obstruction, this sleek design integrates into the ceiling plane and maintains uninterrupted views toward the windows and waterfront scenery.
The refrigerator was also repositioned to better support the overall kitchen workflow. By relocating it within the layout, the design team was able to create a more efficient cooking triangle while keeping the main view corridor clear.
Cabinetry selections balanced modern functionality with subtle nods to mid-century design. Clean lines and thoughtful storage solutions ensure the kitchen feels organized and efficient without appearing overly contemporary.
Backsplash
One of the most distinctive design choices in the kitchen is the backsplash. While many kitchens today default to neutral tones, the homeowners chose a blue tile backsplash to introduce color and personality into the space. The tile creates a striking focal point while still complementing the surrounding cabinetry and finishes.
Incorporating color can sometimes feel like a risk in kitchen design, but in this case the blue tile adds character and warmth while maintaining harmony with the overall design palette.
The result is a kitchen that feels open, bright, and perfectly aligned with the home’s waterfront setting.
Why Armada?
Choosing the right partner for a home renovation is a critical step in ensuring a successful outcome. For these homeowners, the decision to work with Armada came down to a combination of trust, experience, and a design process that supported their decision-making style.
One factor that helped build confidence was the familiarity of the project management team. Having a consistent point of contact throughout the process allowed the homeowners to feel comfortable navigating design decisions and construction planning.
Another major advantage was the opportunity to use the Armada Select design package. This semi-custom design approach was a perfect fit for the homeowners, who preferred a structured and guided design process rather than navigating every design decision independently.
The design package helped simplify the selection process by presenting curated options that balanced quality, aesthetics, and functionality. This approach allowed the homeowners to feel confident in their choices while avoiding the overwhelm that can sometimes accompany large renovation projects.
The collaborative nature of the design process also played a key role. The homeowners appreciated being able to review design options together, discuss ideas openly, and arrive at decisions that reflected their shared vision.
By combining a clear design structure with open communication and professional oversight, the Armada team was able to guide the project smoothly from concept through completion.
Brands
Richelieu
Bellmont
MSI
