Dark & Dingy Northbrook, IL Kitchen Turns Into A Bright, Modern Space! See Our Stunning Before & After Remodel
Lotus Home Improvement recently completed a stunning kitchen renovation in Northbrook, IL, transforming a dated, cramped space into a bright, modern kitchen. This project beautifully showcases our commitment to high-quality materials, functional design, and expert craftsmanship, turning an outdated kitchen into a clean, inviting space perfect for cooking and gathering.
Northbrook, IL Kitchen Renovation Overview
Our clients approached us with a vision for a modern, streamlined kitchen that maximized space and functionality. They wanted a general contractor near Northbrook who could provide a fresh, airy look with easy-to-maintain materials and an efficient layout. The existing kitchen had old, dark cabinetry, bulky fixtures, and a layout that didn’t make the best use of the available space.
Initial Design Challenges
This kitchen renovation had a few design challenges that needed creative solutions:
Limited Space and Storage: The existing cabinet layout made the kitchen feel narrow and cluttered. The cabinetry didn’t provide enough storage, and the workspace was limited.
Dated Aesthetics: The kitchen had dark wood cabinetry, laminate countertops, and tile flooring that made the space feel closed-in and outdated.
Lighting and Brightness: The original lighting was dim and made the kitchen feel dark, especially with the heavy cabinetry.
Our Lotus Home Improvement Solutions
On-Site Consultation: Our first step as a design-build general contractor for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements in Northbrook, Libertyville, Vernon Hills and other Northshore area home remodeling projects is to have an initial onsite consultation and measurement. This is a vital first step to ensure we get to know our potential clients and establish rapport and trust while also getting the critical pieces of information needed to provide an esitmate and design that is one of kind. That information is functionality, style, and budget. We'll ask questions, get any kitchen inspiration pics, talk about design trends liked or disliked, and leave with all the information we need to prepare both a design and installation quote.
3D-Renderings: Our next meeting is when we present our completely broken down estimate - not just one big number. As a full-scale design build home remodeling general contractor in Northbrook, Deerfield, Glenview and the entire Chicago Northshore area, our kitchen designer creates full scale 3D renderings of what the updated cabinets will look like. Being able to visualize this is so helpful! Being a product vendor for all the remodeling products ensures a smooth process along the way and additional cost savings. Having this onsite measure is very crucial because if the measurements are off by a small amount it will throw off the design and can be quite costly!
To address these issues, we developed a modern design that optimized storage, maximized light, and gave the kitchen a clean, open feel.
Improved Layout and Storage: We reconfigured the cabinetry, adding ceiling-height cabinets that increased storage and created a more cohesive look. The new layout incorporated both base and wall cabinets around the refrigerator, maximizing storage and keeping the space organized.
Modern, Light Aesthetics: To give this Northbrook kitchen reno a fresh, modern look, we replaced the dark wood cabinets with sleek, white shaker-style cabinets. This change opened up the space visually, making it feel larger and more welcoming. We paired the cabinets with simple brushed nickel hardware that complemented the minimalist design.
Enhanced Lighting: To brighten up the room, we installed recessed LED lighting, which provided even illumination throughout the kitchen. The lighting, combined with the new white cabinetry and light-colored finishes, created an inviting and well-lit space perfect for cooking and entertaining.
Materials & Finishes
Every detail in this kitchen was chosen to reflect a clean, contemporary style with durability and ease of maintenance in mind.
Cabinetry: We installed custom white Shaker-style cabinets that reach the ceiling for a sleek, seamless look. This style offers a classic feel while staying true to the client’s desire for modern simplicity.
Countertops: Durable, low-maintenance white quartz countertops were chosen for their beauty and resilience. The quartz adds a touch of luxury to the kitchen while providing a smooth, easy-to-clean surface.
Backsplash: A crisp white subway tile backsplash was installed behind the countertops and around the sink area. This timeless design adds visual interest without overwhelming the space, keeping with the clean, modern look.
Flooring: For the flooring, we selected large-format gray porcelain tiles (hot trend alert for 2025!) that offer a subtle contrast to the white cabinetry and went well with the existing hardwood floors already in the other space partially open to the kitchen. Many homeowners are now looking to move to a luxury vinyl tile option, however when there is hardwood connecting to the space, and budget doesn't allow for a whole flooring makeover; large format porcelain tile is ideal for kitchens due to its durability and easy maintenance, making it perfect for a high-traffic area like this one.
Fixtures: We incorporated stainless steel appliances and a sleek, stainless steel undermount sink to match the modern design. A gooseneck faucet adds both style and functionality, making everyday kitchen tasks easier.
Final Results
The finished Northbrook kitchen renovation is a beautiful, bright space that feels open and organized. The clean lines of the white shaker cabinets, paired with the soft gray tiled flooring, with pops of bright accent colors and stainless steel accents, create a harmonious, modern aesthetic. By removing the soffit above the cabinets and bringing in additional storage; the improved layout have made the kitchen not only stylish but also functional, providing ample space for cooking and entertaining.
Our Northbrook clients were thrilled with the night and day transformation, noting how much more inviting and practical their kitchen has become. What was so meaningful is how they referred their neighbors and we then did the basement right next door! This project is a testament to Lotus Home Improvement’s commitment to high-quality, full-service remodeling that reflects both the client’s style and the practical needs of the home.
If you’re ready to transform your Northshore or Lake County kitchen, and looking for an honest, five-star reviewed design-build home improvement general contractor, contact us at 847-421-0847 to schedule a consultation! Let Lotus Home Improvement bring your vision to life with expert design, quality materials, and flawless installation.