Recently retired, this Coastside couple was seeking a designer/builder to update their 35 year old plus kitchen when a friend introduced us (thanks Trainer Phil!). After a careful review of their specific needs, it became clear that they wanted to spend more time in their kitchen preparing gourmet healthy meals. A more functional kitchen would reward them with entertainment; they desired to be able to work together at the same time in harmony. The old kitchen was functionally obsolete and being in the kitchen at the same time was no fun. In addition, she had special needs with the first stages of MS showing signs.

So my challenge was clear. How could I create a two-cook kitchen that would allow them to enjoy each other's golden years in a way that they could spend time in the kitchen gracefully and hopefully stay in their home for years to come. I was able to create a separate lower level sink area that would accommodate her being able to sit and prepare dishes with separate work triangles. which would not interfere. Built-in refrigeration, a convection oven that has a side hinge door, new LED lighting in the toe-kick space as well as recessed cans in the ceilings, a new tile floor that got rid of floor elevation changes and door sill bumps were just a few of the design elements that make this kitchen more accessible for her.

The under-cabinet iPad docking station and integrated home entertainment system will allow them to watch cooking shows as they learn new culinary skills. We enlarged the west facing window above the main sink, and to thwart the glare of the late afternoon sun, we used a window with shades integrated between the panes of glass. Perhaps my favorite feature of this kitchen is the trash/recycle roll-out that can be opened by simply touching it. Those time when both hands are dirty, a simple knee bump is all that is required to operate. A close second favorite is the built-in steam oven. This newly adapted appliance for residencial applications exhibits a trend towards a more healthy method of eating and cooking.

The finished product has transformed not only their home, but their health and their relationship. The reward for me is to know that as their life progresses, as they are using their new kitchen, they will be enjoying this time in their life in a way, that was not otherwise possible.