When homeowners think about updating an outdated kitchen, they often assume it means replacing everything. However, sometimes a few carefully chosen changes can completely transform a space without the time and expense of a full renovation.
That was the case for Fairfield Glade residents Dave and Candyce Corcoran when they contacted Crossville Kitchen and Bath about refreshing their kitchen. Their primary goal was to replace their existing countertops and give the room a more updated look while deciding what to do with the raised bar area.
Before. (Submitted photo)
The kitchen itself functioned well, and the cabinetry didn’t need to be replaced. The challenge was finding a way to make the space feel lighter and more contemporary while working with what was already there.
Before. (Submitted photo)
After discussing the options, we recommended replacing the countertops with quartz and eliminating the raised portion of the bar. Rather than rebuilding the necessary support structure for the weight of the stone, which would have added complexity and cost to the project, we brought the entire seating area down to countertop height.
The Corcorans selected a lighter quartz surface that immediately brightened the kitchen and helped give the existing cabinetry a fresh, more contemporary appearance. The bar chairs were also shortened to accommodate the new counter-height seating.
In progress. (Submitted photo)
The result demonstrates something we often remind homeowners: you don’t always need a complete kitchen renovation to make a significant impact.
In progress. (Submitted photo)
Quartz is durable, easy to maintain and available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. For homeowners who are generally happy with their kitchen’s layout and cabinetry, replacing the countertops and making a few strategic modifications can provide an entirely new look without the scope of a full remodel.
Even a seemingly straightforward remodeling project, however, can bring unexpected challenges. Measurements, material availability and other unforeseen circumstances can affect the process and timeline. That’s where communication, flexibility and having an experienced team become especially important.
After. (Submitted photo)
The Corcorans’ project involved two local team members working closely with them on design decisions, stone selection and measurements, along with tear-out and plumbing professionals, our vendor’s shop team in Chattanooga and the installers who ultimately put the quartz in place.
After. (Submitted photo)
Candyce described the experience this way: “The entire team felt like and became family throughout the process. Remodeling can definitely bring some unexpected ‘Property Brothers’ moments, and we sure had them. However, having a dedicated and professional crew that answers every call and navigates those hurdles with you makes all the difference.”
By the time the project was complete, that feeling of family wasn’t simply a figure of speech. Candyce celebrated the transformation by surprising the crew with a charcuterie and fruit spread and a champagne toast. For several team members, it was their first taste of champagne. When she later shared what she planned to say about their work, a couple of the crew members even became a little emotional.
Submitted photo
Those relationships are one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.
For Dave and Candyce, a dated kitchen became a brighter, more contemporary space without replacing perfectly good cabinetry or undertaking a complete renovation. For our team, the project became another reminder that remodeling isn’t only about countertops, cabinets and stone. It’s also about listening to homeowners, working through challenges together and helping them enjoy their homes in a whole new way.
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