A Soulfully Crafted Kitchen & Mudroom Transformation

A blend of traditional structure, transitional finishes and contemporary touches.

Design by Iris Michaels
Photos by Joe Buzzeo

December 5th, 2025

Reimagining a New Home With an Old Friend

Some projects feel like reunions—and this one was exactly that. When our longtime client relocated in Greenwich, CT, she reached out to our designer, Iris Michaels, who had created her previous kitchen more than 25 years ago. Now in a new home with a fresh layout and a clear vision, she wanted to collaborate once again with a trusted expert. As a leading Kitchen Designer in Westport, CT, Iris was excited to help her design a space that blended beauty, functionality, and deeply personal details.

From the beginning, the homeowner brought a strong sense of direction. She knew what worked in her previous home and where she wanted to elevate function this time. Iris helped refine that vision, offering guidance on flow, materials, and essential design elements that would make every inch work harder.

One of the first selections was the striking Taj Mahal quartzite countertop and full-height backsplash. Its warm, luminous veining set the tone for a kitchen that feels elevated yet inviting—perfect for a homeowner who cooks daily and loves to entertain.

A Chef's Workspace

Because the client cooks with a wide range of ingredients—especially spices from her Indian heritage—organization and functionality were top priorities. This kitchen features a plethora of custom accessories and interior solutions.

Notable Features Include:

  • A 28-inch backsplash behind the cooking area—taller than standard—to protect high wall cabinets from heat.
  • A beautiful custom hood that anchors the cooking zone.
  • Two tall wall cabinets with side-access rollout shelves for coffee machines.
  • Two 30-inch refrigerators, a 36-inch freezer, and a double oven—ideal for large meals, entertaining, and ingredient storage.
  • A walk-in pantry for small appliances and overflow essentials.
  • Flush inset cabinetry above and frameless cabinetry below, maximizing storage without compromising style.
  • Specialty pullouts for tray and cookie sheet storage, and paper towel holders on both islands.

As an experienced kitchen designer, Iris mapped out every detail to create a smooth, intuitive workflow—supporting the client’s cooking habits from prep to cleanup.

Two Islands, Two Purposes

This expansive 18′ x 32′ kitchen offered ample room to create dedicated zones.

The Chef’s Island

Positioned near the cooktop, this island is all about prep. Clean lines, clear surfaces, and smart storage keep the functional heart of the kitchen clutter-free.

The Seating Island

The second island was designed to feel like a table—a lower, comfortable height perfect for baking, casual meals, or gathering with family. It includes:

  • A lowered seating surface
  • Structural cabinetry that doubles as storage
  • A warm, intimate spot for cleanup and conversation near the main sink

A Mudroom with Style, Storage, and Personality

Just off the garage entry, the client envisioned a timeless dark green mudroom with a classic black-and-white checkerboard floor. Iris brought this to life with a design that includes:

  • A fully integrated bench
  • Coat closets with open shelving
  • Shoe rollouts

The space blends daily practicality with traditional design appeal.

Meaningful Details

The homeowner selected many of the special details herself, creating a space full of curated and sentimental elements, including:

  • Chandeliers brought from her previous home
  • A beautiful antique glass pantry door
  • Dark-stained end cabinets designed to resemble furniture and add contrast
  • Glass doors connecting the kitchen to the family room and hallway
  • A contemporary bar area off the living room that blends smoothly with the home’s traditional-transitional architecture

Each touch adds soul and story to the final design.

The Final Result: A Home Designed for Real Life and Lasting Beauty

This Greenwich kitchen and mudroom renovation became more than a design project—it was a rekindling of trust and a shared creative vision. With its blend of traditional structure, transitional finishes, and contemporary touches, this home now feels layered, warm, and deeply personal. And with every cabinet, appliance, and accessory thoughtfully considered, it’s ready to support the client’s daily routines and cultural traditions for years to come.

For clients seeking a Kitchen Designer in Westport, CT, this project reflects the level of care, customization, and personal connection we bring to every home.

Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life

Have a vision for your home but aren’t sure where to start? We’d love to help. Reach out to schedule a consultation, and let’s bring your ideas to life.

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