New parents Jennifer and Kent Watson have tried to maximize their time and money in the updates they have made to their first home. But when it came to their asymmetrical kitchen, they decided they needed professional help to solve their layout dilemma. That's where host and designer Lauren Lake and her team of carpenters Jeff Devlin and Mark McGraw fit into the picture. They are anxious to pool their expertise to breathe new life (and balance) into the space.Armed with a budget of $25,000 to $35,000, Lake lays out two options for the Watsons. The first entails spending the bulk of the money on closing up the dysfunctional opening into the family room and creating a new pass-through into the dining room that will also serve as prep and eating area. New cherry wood cabinets and warm granite countertops are included. Option 2 starts the same way, with opening up the room, but also includes installing custom off-white maple cabinets, high-end marble countertops and Brazilian mahogany floors. The Watsons select Option 1. See how it turned out below.
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