After raising their kids in their 1980s suburban Austin, Texas, home, these empty nesters were ready to give the house — and especially the kitchen — new life. A past storm had prompted a quick, functional repair, but the result fell short: Basic white cabinets, a cramped island, makeshift pantry storage and inadequate lighting left the space feeling disjointed and uninspired.
The homeowners turned to designer Amanda Buckley to rework the kitchen with smarter storage, a more functional island and a timeless look layered with warmth and charm. Buckley brought depth and character through custom cabinetry in three finishes, collaborating with millworker Kleighton Westphall to introduce graceful curves and fine detailing. Appliance garages, a built-in dog-feeding station, a rustic wood island, a vintage-style plate rack and dramatic Black Pearl granite countertops and backsplashes complete the space, offering a clean, modern take on cozy cottage style.
Before: Gray walls, short white cabinets and laminate counters gave the former kitchen a flat, utilitarian feel. Shallow upper cabinets flanking the sink window on the left offered little storage and blocked natural light. Ceilings in the small house were less than 8 feet high, Buckley says. “The window wasn’t that big and there wasn’t enough lighting overall. They also had a vinyl-style tile above the sink but that was their only backsplash.”