Starless Kitchen Design Project

Classic Design Meets Everyday Function

The Starless Kitchen Design Project is a complete kitchen renovation that transformed a dated, crowded space into a timeless and functional kitchen. Our clients needed a kitchen that was both stylish and practical for their growing family. With a thoughtful redesign, custom cabinetry, and improved layout, the result is a kitchen renovation that brings together everyday function and enduring style. This blog post shares the details behind the Starless Kitchen Project, from cabinetry choices to smart storage and beautiful finishes.

Opening Up the Kitchen and Dining Room

One of the most impactful changes in this kitchen renovation was removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room. This opened up the entire space and made the layout feel brighter and more spacious. We extended cabinetry into the dining area for added storage and flow. By doing so, the new kitchen supports daily living and hosting with ease. We also kept key architectural details like the original plaster ceiling and crown moulding, preserving the character of the home while modernizing the layout.

Starless and Nordic Cabinetry for a Timeless Foundation

The Starless Kitchen Project gets its name from the dramatic navy base cabinetry finish, called Starless. These shaker-style cabinets are paired with Nordic, a soft grey finish for the upper cabinets. This combination creates a clean contrast and adds depth to the space. To enhance the timeless palette, we selected brushed gold Kane pulls and knobs. These gold accents add a soft warmth and echo the metallic tones found in other fixtures throughout the kitchen.

Smart Storage Solutions for Everyday Living

Storage was a major priority in this custom kitchen design. Though the overall footprint is modest, we included features to maximize every inch. Highlights include corner lazy Susans, deep drawers, and a pull-out garbage system. We also added open shelving for cookbooks and wine, a custom whiteboard panel for notes and reminders, and a full-depth pantry cabinet with interior roll-out shelves. The end result is a highly functional kitchen that supports the needs of a busy household.

Elegant Countertops and Backsplash Details

To tie all the elements together, we chose Hanstone Quartz countertops in the colour Le Blanc. With a soft grey base threaded with warm espresso veins, this surface feels refined and timeless. The quartz finish pairs beautifully with the Virtuo Granite undermount single bowl sink, which offers durability, stain resistance, and a luxurious texture thanks to its 80% quartz composition.

To elevate the Starless Kitchen Project even further, we chose 2×6 Blanco tiles from the Rice collection for the backsplash. These handmade-look tiles offer a glossy finish and subtle blue undertones. Installed in a herringbone pattern, they bring texture and visual movement to the design.

Coordinated Fixtures That Bring It All Together

To keep the finishes cohesive, we incorporated a Delta pull-down kitchen faucet in champagne bronze, featuring MagnaTite™ Docking for easy functionality. Above the sink, a Wellfleet Single Arm Dome Task Sconce in matte white and burnished brass offers extra task lighting and a vintage touch. These matching tones across the fixtures help tie the entire kitchen together.

A Mudroom Addition That Works Hard

As part of the Starless Kitchen Project, we also designed a mudroom addition just off the kitchen. Measuring 7’ x 8’, this space serves as a drop zone for everyday items like coats, backpacks, toys, and pantry overflow. The custom layout includes a built-in bench, coat hooks, and a large closet with adjustable shelves.

For the flooring, we used 24×24 Soul tiles in White, which mimic natural stone with a durable textured finish. The matte surface helps conceal dirt and handles wear from heavy traffic—ideal for a back entrance used by kids and pets.

Bringing It All Together

The Starless Kitchen Design Project combines timeless design with modern convenience. From opening up the layout to selecting hard-wearing finishes and smart cabinetry, every detail was designed to meet the needs of a busy family. The final result is a kitchen that feels bright, organized, and classic. If you’re ready for your own kitchen renovation—one that works beautifully in everyday life—we’d love to help. Contact Essence Designs to start your project today.

Create Your Dream Home with Essence Designs

Ready to update your home with a timeless, modern design? Contact Essence Designs today to begin your journey toward creating a space that perfectly blends style, comfort, and functionality.

Let us help you craft a home that reflects your unique taste and enhances your everyday living.

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