SKD Studios Transforms MD Kitchen

I always joke around that I can frequently lose my train of thought if someone dangles something shiny in front of me. Imagine my meltdown, then, when Anissa Swanzy of SKD Studios sent me this photo of a newly renovated kitchen in Huntingtown, MD:

Besides the dramatic lighting, extending the shiny glass-and-stone-tile backsplash all the way up the wall is a great way to glamorize this space.

This shiny little jewel box of a kitchen is all the more eye-popping once you see what it used to be:

This is the story of a couple who has lived in this house for 14 years — neatniks who kept the place spotless but couldn’t do anything to avoid it becoming dated. Anissa gave them a stunning redo that, unlike so many of us with mess-making children, could preserve a showhouse quality in real life.

“They recognized that it was time to update the space and were not sure what direction to go,” Anissa writes in an e-mail. “We helped them to redesign the space to not only fit their needs but really showcase their great style.”

That means this:

Became THIS:

SKD eliminated the old pantry closet and installed tall cabinetry to surround new stainless appliances. They also narrowed the island to add more counter space on the side wall. The bar is zebra wood, crowned by its own crystal chandelier.

And this:

Became THIS:

The designers added a partition wall to break up the long, narrow space and also to house a television on the other side. The new warm gray tones (goodbye teal rug and mauve walls!) don't hurt, either.

And THIS:

The countertops are white Quartz, and the new cabinets are a chocolate-stained semi-custom maple. The flooring is Turkish marble.

Most designers get a little cagey when asked about price, because, ADMIT IT, it’s the first thing we wonder when we see an incredible project like this one. I was pleasantly surprised when Anissa offered the information right up front: About $68,000 for materials and labor — not surprising for a 100-percent makeover. Great job, ladies, and thanks for sharing!