“The husband and wife are both attorneys and they have 2 daughters, one in college and one just graduating from high school,” designers Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole say of their Atlanta clients. The designers, the dynamic duo behind the highly sought-after design firm Kandrac & Kole, were tasked with bringing this kitchen up to speed for modern living. When recalling what it looked like before they got their hands on it, they laugh: “DATED!! There was square tile floor, cabinets that did not go to the ceiling, glass lights over the island that were way too small and very cluttered.”

The clients wanted a neutral and timeless design. “The look of their home is very eclectic,” the pair tells us. “Their style is very interesting with a good mix of both traditional and modern pieces. They are art and photography lovers, and the overall look is best described as well-traveled.” Topping their wish list? Clutter-free countertops, a small bar area that could include wine storage and an ice maker, and of course, beautiful finishes.

The designers got to work checking off a long list of upgrades. The mosaic tile backsplash goes all the way to the ceiling for a modern look, while an appliance garage with pocket doors houses all the small appliances for a clutter-free look. Other (very clever) details include tray storage above the double ovens, pull-out 50-quart trash cans next to the sink, and customized drawer inserts for silverware and other utensils. Hard-working Wolf Appliances make the kitchen highly functional, while small floating shelves to the right of the window offer a “pretty” moment—at the ready for styling pottery and other treasures. 

The project took about three months, and as you’ll see in the slideshow, was quite a transformation. Bravo, Kandrac & Kole!! To keep up with the designers, catch new episodes of their popular podcast here.