In this West Village kitchen, a waterfall island adds storage and a work surface
“After” photos by Pixy Interiors for Sweeten
- Homeowners: Erin and Jonathan posted their West Village kitchen renovation project on Sweeten
- Where: West Village, Manhattan, New York
- Primary renovation: Refresh and create a new kitchen layout in their 750-square-foot apartment
- Sweeten general contractor
- Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches residential renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering know-how, support, and up to $50,000 in renovation financial protection—for free.
Remodeling an outdated 80’s West Village kitchen
Though Erin and Jonathan’s West Village kitchen in their 750-square-foot apartment was, for the most part, functional, it didn’t suit their style. Another downside: the kitchen did not make the best use of the available space. Open to the living area, there was plenty of room to add the built-in island on the couple’s wish list, plus reimagine the layout. Ready to bid farewell to the ‘80s cabinetry and shabby tile flooring, they posted the project to Sweeten and were matched with a general contractor.
Picking renovation materials and kitchen appliances
The basic kitchen transformed into a bright, modern marvel complete with new stainless steel appliances, a waterfall island, and light fixtures. The overall contemporary culinary space also got some more classic updates, like the Shaker-style cabinets and herringbone tile backsplash. To connect the kitchen with the rest of the living area, 5-inch white oak flooring was installed throughout.
A French door refrigerator replaced the older model, while the new dishwasher (that has a window and lights up!) moved to the stove’s previous location. A stainless steel hood and gas range found a new central location in the space across from the storage-packed island.
Working through the renovation process
The contractor brought the couple’s vision to life, ensuring everything was on time and on budget. “The contractor’s app was also a very helpful tool for us to make material selections and track the progress of the project,” Jonathan said. Their contractor provided valuable input, guiding them on sourcing materials, layout, and space considerations.
“The entire process was intimidating. From planning, scheduling, prepping, and deciding, it was all new to us. Sweeten and our contractors made us feel at ease,” he continued.
The renovation had its challenges (the couple moved into a sublet for three months), but it wrapped up beautifully. “Before, there was a daily struggle for space and storage. Getting a certain level of cleanliness was never attainable in an older apartment. Now when we walk in the door, it’s a breath of fresh air,” Jonathan said.
Bonus: The countertops are actually marble-like quartz that doesn’t just look pretty; it’s very durable too!
Renovation Materials:
White modern Shaker cabinets: Waypoint. Cabinet pulls tabs: Miseno. Marble-like quartz countertops: Quartz Master. Bolden single handle faucet: Kraus. Stainless steel sink: Kohler. Fisher & Paykel French door refrigerator, #RF170ADUSX4N: AJ Madison. Dishwasher, #KDTM804ESS, gas range, #KSGB900ESS: KitchenAid. Alto rod 8″ island lighting: Cedar & Moss.
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Waterfall islands are making a splash. See Lia and Chris’ waterfall island in their kitchen reno.
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