Kitchen in Lakewood, Ohio

This century home, built in 1916 in the historic area of Lakewood, was in desperate need of a kitchen and cabinetry overhaul. The original kitchen had peeling floors, cabinets with doors falling off, and ceilings marred by water stains and stress cracks in the plaster. The adjacent butler’s pantry was outdated and nonfunctional. The entire space required significant upgrades to both materials and design to bring it back to life.

The home—heated by a boiler with old steam radiators in every room—presented unique challenges. The renovation began with the removal of a load-bearing wall between the kitchen and butler’s pantry to open up the space. This structural change required the installation of a flush-mount LVL beam to ensure the stability of the home. Flooring and subflooring were also removed down to the joists to create consistent floor heights across the rooms.

During demolition, asbestos insulation was discovered wrapping the old steam pipes. This was safely removed and the steam radiator system in the kitchen was upgraded. Additionally, heated floor cabling was installed beneath new porcelain tile—adding warmth and modern comfort to the historic home.

The new kitchen cabinetry was designed with both functionality and style in mind. High-quality, all-wood cabinetry with dovetail drawers and soft-close hardware on both drawers and doors was installed. A spacious kitchen island was added—complete with a beverage fridge and seating for five—making it a perfect spot for casual dining and entertaining.

With three entry points, the original kitchen layout posed design challenges by limiting wall space. To improve traffic flow, one entry point was rerouted—this allowed for additional cabinetry and the creation of a coffee bar. On the opposite side, a coat niche and storage locker system were installed—adding practical storage solutions that seamlessly blend with the design of the kitchen.

This kitchen renovation restored the classic charm of the century-old Lakewood home while introducing modern functionality. With upgraded cabinetry, enhanced traffic flow, and thoughtful design, the new kitchen now serves as the heart of the home—combining style, comfort, and convenience in a timeless setting.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re ready to elevate your kitchen — and want a professional partner to guide you through every step — working with a design-build firm is the smartest decision you can make.

Let’s talk about your kitchen vision and help you invest with confidence. Schedule your consultation with Remodel Me Today.

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