Spanish Revival Kitchen Renovation With Period Appeal

Practical Design, Period Appeal

Renovating a kitchen in a historic home presents a unique challenge: balancing modern functionality with period-appropriate style. The Collins family’s 1930 Spanish Revival house in California is a prime example of how thoughtful design can achieve both. Their new kitchen blends high-performance appliances with classic architectural details, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Architectural Accents

One of the standout features of the Collins’ kitchen is its architectural accents. These details not only enhance the aesthetic but also tie the kitchen to the rest of the house. The design includes:

• Two cascading archways that mirror an original arch in the entry hall.
• Era-appropriate triple-arched casement windows.
• Painted scrollwork that adds a touch of vintage elegance.

Craig Collins notes, “We finally have a kitchen that measures up to the other parts of the house.” These elements ensure the kitchen feels like a natural extension of the home’s historic character.

Stove Alcove

The stove alcove is a focal point of the kitchen, set off with a cascading arch and a hand-painted tile mural. This alcove highlights the showpiece range, making it a true centerpiece. The mural adds a splash of color and artistry, while the arch provides a sense of grandeur.

Homeowner Tip: “Stay flexible. We originally planned a tiled floor but decided to keep the original fir when it was uncovered under layers of linoleum. The tile ‘rug’ we designed became our stove backsplash,” says Craig.

Range: La Cornue
Range Hood: Broan-NuTone
Dishwasher: Miele
Mural Tile: Tierra y Fuego

Snack Bar

The snack bar serves a dual purpose in the Collins’ kitchen. It doubles as a homework station for their children, providing a dedicated space for schoolwork. This multifunctional design is ideal for families who need a kitchen that can adapt to various activities.

Pendants: Schoolhouse Electric

Architectural Details

New architectural details further enhance the Spanish Revival style of the kitchen. These include:

• Curved brackets beneath the upper cabinets.
• Pull-open casement windows that add to the vintage feel.

These details not only look beautiful but also contribute to the overall functionality of the space.

Built-In Hutch

A built-in hutch on the way to the breakfast room is both practical and stylish. It features:

• A plate rack for easy access to dishes.
• A beadboard back panel for a classic look.
• A mahogany serving counter for durability and elegance.
• Cascading-arch detailing that matches the rest of the kitchen.
• Upper shelves for cookbooks and other essentials.

Cabinets (custom): Crest Woodworks

Soapstone Drainboard

The soapstone drainboard is a practical addition to the kitchen. Grooves in the soapstone create an integral drainboard, graded to encourage water to run into the basin. This feature is both functional and visually appealing, adding to the period charm of the kitchen.

Farmhouse Sink

The farmhouse sink is a period-appropriate choice that adds both style and function. Its deep basin conceals dirty dishes, making it ideal for busy households. The arched casement windows’ soapstone sill is both handsome and practical, providing a durable surface for placing items.

Sink: Rohl
Faucet: Kohler
Subway Tile: Ken Mason Tile/BCIA
Cabinet Knobs and Pulls: Restoration Hardware
Windows (custom): JT Windows

Floorplan After

The new floorplan opens up the kitchen to the dining room via a wide arch, creating a more spacious and inviting atmosphere. The layout includes:

• A long counter and small breakfast bar.
• A range alcove that lines up with the fridge for a clean look.

1. Annexed the butler’s pantry that led to the dining room, removing one wall and creating a wide archway in the other. This made space for an extended counter and breakfast bar on one side and a 60-inch fridge on the other.
2. Replaced the windows with identical sets of triple-arched casement models that echo arches throughout the house.
3. Added more arches. The doorway to the adjacent hall got a simple Roman curve; the alcove for the range got a cascading arch.
4. Built in a hutch with a serving counter along the entry to the breakfast room.

Designer: The Kitchen Consultant
General Contractor: Bob Kaplan, Kaplan Construction

Design Tips for a Period Kitchen

• Choose materials and finishes that reflect the era of your home.
• Incorporate architectural details like arches, brackets, and beadboard.
• Use period-appropriate fixtures and hardware.
• Consider multifunctional spaces, such as a snack bar that doubles as a homework station.
• Stay flexible and open to unexpected discoveries, like uncovering original flooring.

FAQs

What are the key elements of a period kitchen?

Key elements include architectural details like arches and brackets, period-appropriate fixtures, and materials that reflect the era of the home.

How can I make my kitchen more functional without losing its period charm?

Incorporate modern appliances and efficient layouts while maintaining classic architectural details and finishes.

What are some period-appropriate materials for a kitchen?

Soapstone, beadboard, mahogany, and subway tile are all excellent choices for a period kitchen.

How do I choose the right hardware for a period kitchen?

Select hardware that matches the style of your home, such as Restoration Hardware knobs and pulls for a vintage look.

What are the benefits of a farmhouse sink?

A farmhouse sink is both stylish and functional, with a deep basin that conceals dirty dishes and a classic look that fits well in period kitchens.