Traditional Kitchen for Family

Designer Dana Wolter describes how she transformed an inefficient kitchen layout to allow a family to enjoy the space and entertain friends.
Brown Transitional Kitchen

Brown Transitional Kitchen With Stools

Photography by Jean Alsopp

Photography by Jean Alsopp
By: Lydia Somerville
From: Dana Wolter

For this Birmingham, Ala., project, homeowners asked designer Dana Wolter to give their outdated kitchen a fresh, modern update, transforming it into a room they can enjoy together and with company. The space is designed with built-ins to help the kitchen flow more effortlessly within the house.

Dana shares the challenges of this project and the design solutions that allowed her to create a kitchen and breakfast nook that fits with the modern tastes and family-centered style of the homeowners.

Traditional Family Kitchen

See All Photos

Shop This Look

Describe the family's wish list.

The family wanted a space for parents and kids to sit comfortably and eat together, and they wanted it to be a kitchen where they could entertain friends.

How did you address design obstacles?

Space was a concern. The kitchen was closed in, but once we took down a few walls the room felt completely different. Also, the homeowners' table and chairs didn't allow the breakfast area to function as well as it could. We added a custom banquette to the kitchen, which frames the dining area and provides a versatile seating solution.

How does the space match up with your original vision?

I have proof that you can have a home that is family-friendly and beautiful.

Describe the “hidden gems” that made a big impact.

The velvet banquette and sheer Roman shades add so much softness to a room filled with hard surfaces.

Next Up

Traditional Brooklyn Home Gets a Modern Spin

Designer Ben Herzog takes a once dark and outdated house and turns it into a light, airy home that mixes traditional beauty with modern design.

Traditional Kitchen With Added Storage

Designer Cyndi Haaz creates a neutral kitchen with traditional style and plenty of storage.

Charming Mint Kitchen

Designer Laura Dalzell takes a mismatched kitchen and turns it into a mint-green masterpiece that fits right in with the traditional Kentucky home.

Robin's-Egg-Blue Kitchen Makeover

Designer Bonnie Pressley creates a serene and colorful kitchen with an interesting mix of rustic and elegant accents.

Small Kitchen, Big Makeover

Designer Laura Dalzell helps this family of six get the stylish, convenient kitchen they need, making sure there's plenty of room for everyone.

Stylish Kitchen Renovated for Optimal Use

Designer Rebecca Lindquist wanted to make this family’s kitchen more than just the sum of its parts by making it a useful space with custom designs, a coffered ceiling and copper sinks.

Dining Room Designed for Art

For an artist whose paintings were left to gather dust, a gallery-style dining room designed by Kristie Barnett created the perfect place to put them on display.

Inviting Living Room in Lake Tahoe Retreat

Designer Linda McCall creates a charming place for family and friends to gather in this couple's traditional Lake Tahoe getaway.

Backyard Upgrade With a Pool

Landscape designer John Cowen transform a basic backyard into a relaxing retreat for homeowners who wanted a place to get away from their busy lives in New York City.

French Country Kitchen Makeover

Designer Bonnie Pressley takes this kitchen from its dated '70s design to a classic French country style, complete with new appliances, antique accents and hand-painted tiles.

Dana Wolter

Contact Me
Dana Wolter Interiors
danawolterinteriors.com ASID 2611 Canterbury Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223 205-907-7758