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

Related To:

For this Birmingham, Ala., project, homeowners asked designer Dana Wolter to give their outdated kitchen a fresh, modern update, transforming it into a room they can enjoy together and with company.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

Vintage Historic Kitchen

Designer Bryan Reiss added smart design choices to this home's already gorgeous historic roots to create a smart and visually stunning kitchen space.

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.

Historic Kitchen Renovation

Designer Bryan Reiss created a stunning and functional kitchen space during this renovation, while also preserving many of its original historic elements.

Bold, Modern Living Room

Designer Diego Rincon creates a contemporary living space in a New York City loft with streamlined furniture and richly colored accessories.

Beautiful Backyard Landscaping and Pool

For homeowners who didn't simply want a pool in their backyard, designer Janice Parker created a one-of-a-kind outdoor space that complements the surroundings and still has everything the homeowners wanted.

Robin's-Egg-Blue Kitchen Makeover

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

Hollywood Glam Powder Room

Designer Shelley Rodner gave this half bathroom a glamorous touch by using fun textiles, vintage finds and custom-made pieces to add unique flair.

Budget-Friendly Living Room

Designer Shelley Rodner kept this family's budget intact by mixing new design elements to already-owned pieces to give the space an upgrade.

Contemporary Great Room and Dining Room

Designer Jeff Tohl combines the functions of living, dining and cooking into one open great room.

Midcentury-Modern Living Room

Designer Hillary Thomas mixed eclectic furnishings with a neutral color palette to give the living room a cool, contemporary feeling.

Dana Wolter

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