Hillsboro Kitchen Renovation

The Challenge

The original kitchen dated to 1987 — functional, but completely cut off from the rest of the home. Closed walls blocked light from the south-facing dining room, and the L-shaped layout left the primary cook isolated from family activity.

The homeowners came to McKenzie with a clear vision: open the space, maximize natural light, and build something that would last another thirty years.

What We Did

We began by removing the load-bearing wall between the kitchen and dining room, installing a steel I-beam to carry the span cleanly. With the wall gone, the two spaces unified into a single great room with sightlines all the way to the back yard.

New custom cabinetry runs floor to ceiling on the north wall, with a large island anchoring the center of the room. White shaker doors keep the palette clean; unlacquered brass hardware adds warmth without competing with the quartzite countertops.

Underfloor radiant heat was added before the new white oak hardwood was laid — a detail the homeowners won’t notice until January, when they realize the floor is warm beneath their feet.

The Result

A kitchen that finally matches the rest of the home. Light moves through the space from morning to evening. The island seats four comfortably, and the new layout means whoever is cooking is always part of the conversation.