When a local couple decided to purchase a home to accommodate their growing family, they settled on a property in north Arlington. While the charm of the 1960s’ home appealed to them, some of its quirky spaces needed new faces, particularly the kitchen.

The family wanted to transform their outdated, cramped, L-shaped space into a light-filled, functional gathering area that flowed into the rest of the home. They hired Arlington-based interior designer Allie Mann of Case Design Remodeling to craft the kitchen to their needs and taste. While the home is child friendly, its polish and amenities make it relaxing for adults as well.

The couple enjoys cooking and entertaining friends, so the duo ordered a culinary dream space, replete with a Thermador Range and Subzero refrigerator, which is disguised behind cabinet fronts.

“They wanted a timeless look, hence the white cabinetry perimeter with complimentary stained island,” said Mann. “We widened the window over the sink to allow more natural light to flood the space.”

The remodel included dismantling a wall that separated the kitchen from the dining room. The result was a casual, flowing space.

“We widened the window over the sink to allow more natural light to flood the space.”

— Allie Mann, interior designer

“You can now see from the kitchen to the family room and the home feels more connected,” said Mann.

The remodel also included cubbies to accommodate the possessions of the couple’s children, three boys all under the age of 5.

“It was one of the focal points in the house, so it needed to look nice,” said project manager James Wood.

The countertops, both honed black granite around the perimeter and a honed marble on the island, are also child-friendly. “Honed surfaces can be more durable than those that are not,” said Mann. “Marble and granite also create a timeless, classic look.”