A Kitchen Designed for Connection: The Oakbriar Project
This 1960s-era home was ready for a change — not just in style, but in purpose.
Our homeowner dreamed of hosting Thanksgiving dinners and family holidays where everyone — kids, grandkids, and friends — could gather comfortably around one table. To make that dream possible, we reimagined the entire main floor layout.
Changing the Layout to Meet Wants & Needs
The original kitchen and dining area were divided by walls that closed off the space. We opened things up — creating room for a long dining table and generous seating for family gatherings.
Removing Walls in a 1960s-Era Home
The Goal: Create an open, connected living space with a flush ceiling line.
The Challenge: The home’s structure relied on intersecting load-bearing walls (Wall A resting on Wall B) with 2×8 ceiling joists — standard for the era but not ideal for open spans.
The Solution: We worked with local architect Rich Hunt to design and install a double steel flitch plate header, allowing us to safely remove the walls and achieve that smooth, modern ceiling finish.
Adding a New Exterior Door for Easy Backyard Access
Previously, the only way to reach the backyard was through the garage — not exactly convenient during family cookouts. We solved that by removing a window and installing an outswing exterior door for direct access to the yard. We worked together with another local vendor, AV Design Works, to draft a set of drawings for a small landing. Not only did the town require them, but it was also a way to show the homeowner what we were planning to build before we started construction.
Creative Island Collaboration with VHI Cabinetry
To make the most of the expanded layout, we collaborated with Nick Siesto and the VHI Cabinetry team on a custom island design that combines storage, seating, and a kitchen sink — all in one flowing piece.
The island was finished with a quartz countertop polished to perfection by Roc City Granite, bringing strength and beauty together at the heart of the kitchen.
