Priorities
Solve structural issues; create a contemporary black-on-white kitchen; combine functional space; bring in light
Solutions
When demolition began, J. Francis Co. found brick exterior walls in danger of collapse, a variety of structural framing issues, and knob-and-tube wiring in this kitchen. The team built load-bearing temporary walls and laid brick veneer walls. They replaced the damaged ¾-inch pine flooring with salvaged heart pine flooring finished with a patina to match the other flooring in the house. To gain light, a “full-view” steel door onto the deck was installed. Walls and ceilings were plaster-coated to give the look and feel of the original.
To satisfy the clients’ ideas for a modern palette, the team used custom white oak cabinets and stained graphite and concrete countertops.
Judges’ comments
“The custom shelf details mimic what they once had but in a modern way,” the judges said, “and the windows are organized nicely.” Also praised was the attention to detail — how the “countertop comes up, and how the tile is detailed under window.” —Stacey Freed, senior editor, REMODELING.
Project Team
Architect/Designer: Heather Wildman Figley, Moss Architects, Pittsburgh
Contractor: Dave Myers, J. Francis Co., Pittsburgh
Spec List
Countertops: Outlaw Studio
Dishwasher: Miele
Entry doors: Bliss Nor-Am
Hardware: Mockett
Kitchen cabinets: Hensen Fine Cabinetry
Lighting fixtures: Lightolier
Oven: Miele
Paints/stains: Sherwin Williams
Refrigerator: Northland
Windows: Pella Corp.
