Welcome to another exciting project reveal from AKN Interiors! Today, we’re taking you on a journey through our finished Bridgeville kitchen remodel: fit for the whole family. We have to say, this was one of those projects that really reminded us why we love what we do. So grab a cup of coffee, and let us tell you the story of how we transformed a cramped, outdated kitchen into a stunning modern space that now fits the needs of an entire family.
It all started with a referral. A painter we’ve worked with in the past recommended us to this Bridgeville family who had lived in their home for about nine years. Now, we’ve seen a lot of kitchens in our time, but this one had a special story. The house had been a “flipper” when they bought it. One of those quick, surface-level remodels where the previous owners skimped on quality. The kitchen was tiny, the materials weren’t durable, and the space just wasn’t cutting it for their growing family of five.
The Struggles of a “Flipper House” Kitchen Remodel
You know how it goes: When the kids are little, you make do with less. But this family was starting to feel the squeeze. They had three kiddos, all in that “homework while dinner is cooking” stage, and their kitchen’s island was woefully small. We’re talking only room for one child at a time. So you can imagine the frustration. Mom and Dad juggling homework help and cooking, but only one kid could be seated at the island while the others were stranded elsewhere. Not ideal. And, to add insult to injury, the materials used in the original flip were already starting to show wear. It was time for a change. But, as with many homeowners, they were initially thinking small, just a refresh.
A Full Kitchen Expansion to the Rescue
Enter AKN’s pre-construction team (and honestly, a bit of magic happened). When they first met with the family at their home, they quickly realized this wasn’t a case of just slapping on some lipstick. Their entire first floor layout wasn’t working for their family, and a simple refresh wouldn’t solve the cramped space issues. They needed an expansion.
And let us tell you, when our pre-construction team suggests taking down a wall, you listen! They proposed knocking out the wall between the kitchen and the dining room to open things up and create a more fluid, family-friendly space. They also created a beautiful design that captured the family’s traditional design style with a modern twist.
The moment we blue-taped the floor to show them the new cabinet layout, they were sold. Blue tape never lies, folks. It was the perfect solution. A spacious kitchen that not only looked beautiful but could also handle the day-to-day busyness of life with three kids.
But, Where Will We Cook During Our Kitchen Remodel?
Ah, the dreaded question, “How will we survive during the remodel?” Listen, we get it. Living without a kitchen can be stressful. But here’s another area where AKN Interior shines. We don’t just rip your kitchen out and leave you hanging. Nope, we go the extra mile by setting up a temporary kitchenette for our clients. For this project, we moved the family’s old cabinets, counters, and fridge to the basement.
We always do this because we understand how important it is to keep life as normal as possible during a renovation, especially when you’ve got kids to feed. There’s even been times our plumber has installed a temporary sink so the homeowners could still wash dishes. It’s one of those little details that might seem small, but trust us, it makes all the difference in the world.
Demo Day Surprises: Hidden Water Lines (and Other Fun Kitchen Remodeling Moments)
With the new design approved, demo day arrived with all the usual excitement. Our team put up zip walls and dust protection (because no one wants their entire home looking like a construction zone). As we tore down the wall between the kitchen and dining room, we hit one of those “unplanned surprises” you sometimes find in older homes: two water lines running up into the master bathroom. But, as it turns out, this was actually a blessing in disguise. Upon closer inspection, we realized the second floor water lines were oxidizing and needed to be replaced. So, we not only moved the lines but also upgraded all the plumbing on the second floor. Bonus!
Islands Matter During a Kitchen Remodel
Remember the original, tiny island that could only seat one kid at a time? Well, we weren’t about to let that happen again. We built a huge custom island, with enough seating for the entire family to hang out together comfortably. The new island isn’t just for homework and meal prep anymore, it’s the new heart of the home where everyone can gather, chat, and spend time together. And the best part? It’s as gorgeous as it is functional.
Putting Their Personal Touch in the Island
During construction, Andrew, our contractor, made sure to add a personal touch that the whole family would remember. Before the countertop was installed on their custom-built island, he invited the three children to write their names on it. This is something we love to do at AKN Interiors because it allows the family to leave their mark on the project in a fun, meaningful way. It’s a special moment that not only involves the kids in the process but also creates a hidden memory within the heart of the home, a little reminder that this kitchen was truly made just for them.
Custom Cabinetry and Zellige Tile: Old Meets New
Speaking of beauty, let’s dig deeper into the kitchen cabinetry. The homeowner’s style leaned more traditional, so we went with custom inset cabinets that have a classic, timeless feel. But the real showstopper? The zellige tile backsplash. If you’re not familiar, zellige tiles are handmade Moroccan tiles that are known for their rich texture and natural imperfections. Each tile is slightly different, which gives the backsplash a unique, artisan look. It’s the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern flair, and it paired beautifully with the more traditional cabinetry.
Mixing Metals: Because Rules Were Meant to Be Broken
We also played around with mixed metals in this kitchen, a trend that we personally love. The chrome sink faucet and pot filler give the space a sleek, polished look, while the aged brass pendant lights over the island and sconces add warmth and a touch of vintage elegance. And if you’re thinking, “Wait, can you mix chrome and brass?” The answer is a resounding yes! Mixing metals creates depth and interest in the design, and there are no hard and fast rules, just what looks and feels right.
A Kid-Friendly Kitchen: Easy to Reach Microwave
With three kids in the house, we also wanted to make sure the kitchen was family-friendly. One of the family’s request was an easy to reach microwave. So, we added an under cabinet drawer microwave that’s easy for the kids to use, that’s safe and accessible. Plus, we modified the existing bay window to accommodate a farmhouse sink and extra counter space, giving mom the perfect spot to add in some potted plants for that extra touch of life and warmth.
Last But Not Least: That Arch
Early in the remodel, the lady of the house had a brilliant idea. She noticed the opening between the sitting room and the new kitchen and asked if it could be arched. This wasn’t part of the original plan, but she had a vision, and we love when homeowners share their creative ideas. When she brought it up to Andrew, our contractor, he immediately reassured her that not only was it possible, but it would also add a beautiful architectural detail to the space. With that, our team got to work, crafting a custom arched opening that elegantly connects the two rooms, giving the entire first floor a cohesive, sophisticated flow.
At AKN Interiors, we always encourage homeowner feedback throughout the remodeling process. We believe that our clients know their homes best, and their input can truly make a project shine. By staying open to suggestions and fostering collaboration. In this case, the arched opening became a standout feature, enhancing the overall design and making the space feel even more personal and special. It’s these kinds of touches that take a remodel from beautiful to unforgettable.
Safety and Cleanliness During the Kitchen Remodel
One of the things this Bridgeville family really appreciated during their remodel was our team’s commitment to keeping the workspace clean and safe. Let’s be honest, a kitchen remodel can get messy, but at AKN Interiors, we believe that a construction zone should never feel like a hazard, especially when the homeowners are living in the home during the project. And if there are small children in the mix, well, that just doubles our effort to ensure the space is secure and family-friendly at all times.
Every single day before we left, our team cleaned up the project area. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s about making sure the family can safely move through their home without tripping over tools or getting hurt by loose materials.
A Dream Kitchen Remodel Brought to Life
When all was said and done, this Bridgeville kitchen remodel was about so much more than just new countertops and a fresh coat of paint. It was about creating a space that truly worked for this family of five—a kitchen that could handle the demands of everyday life while offering a warm, inviting place to gather. We didn’t just knock down a wall; we opened up their entire first floor, giving them room to move, grow, and make new memories together. With the custom-built island at the heart of the design, the family can finally all be in the kitchen at once, comfortably enjoying meals, homework time, and each other’s company without feeling cramped or disconnected.
The result is a kitchen that is not only beautiful but also incredibly functional and timeless. Every detail, from the handcrafted zellige tile to the mix of chrome and aged brass finishes, was chosen with the family’s personal style and long-term use in mind. This kitchen isn’t just designed for today—it’s built to stand the test of time, ready to meet the family’s needs for the next nine years and beyond. More than just a renovation, this was a transformation that made their home work for them in every way possible. It’s a space where style meets function, and where family memories will be made for years to come.
What Makes AKN Interiors Different
This Bridgeville kitchen remodel is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can transform not just a space, but how a family lives in it. At AKN Interiors, we take a design-buildapproach to remodeling, which means we’re with our clients every step of the way. From the initial consultation with our designer to daily check-ins during construction and all the way through to punch-out day, we make sure every detail is handled with care. It’s our commitment to creating a seamless experience that has made us Pittsburgh’s trusted home remodeling team.
Our design-build process means homeowners work closely with our pre-construction team from day one. The team didn’t just sketch up some plans; they provide material selection assistance and walk families through every aspect of their design. We also provided our clients with regular updates via JobTread APP, including daily check-ins from Andrew so they always knew what was happening in their home. This open line of communication ensured that any surprises—like those hidden water lines—were handled smoothly, and the homeowners feel confident every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our in-house designer and begin your design-first home remodeling journey. AKN Interiors proudly provides home remodeling services in the following areas: Mount Lebanon, Upper Saint Clair, Peters Township, Bethel Park, McMurray, Baldwin, Whitehall, South Hills, and Dormont.
