Graceful Living
LOCATION: REDWOOD CITY, CALIFORNIA
Agnieszka Jakubowicz Photography
Construction: Harrell Design+Build
Project Overview
A Modern Traditional Transformation
A newly married couple brings elegance, intention, and warmth to her longtime Redwood City home-creating a dream kitchen for joyful gatherings and a serene bath retreat inspired by their world travels.
NARI/Meta Platinum Award Winner
The Cook's Kitchen of Her Dreams
This remodel honored more than function-it celebrated family, tradition, and new beginnings. The homeowner, an excellent cook nearing retirement, had long dreamed of a kitchen worthy of her Italian grandmother's recipes. She and her new husband, both widowed before finding each other, entertain often-and the kitchen's original 1950s turquoise GE appliances simply couldn't keep up.
We raised the ceiling to add architectural breathing room and created space for a row of glass-front cabinets to showcase her collection of objects d'art. Top-of-the-line appliances now include a Wolf cooktop, Miele steam and convection ovens, a Sub-Zero fridge, and even a plate warmer. For a sweet nod to the past, we found a turquoise enamel teapot-an homage to the original oven and cooktop.
With a Kosher layout in mind, every inch of cabinetry was designed for maximum storage and efficiency-bringing both form and function to life.
A Worldly Primary Bath
Sophisticated and well-traveled, the couple wanted their primary bath to feel open, elegant, and filled with natural light. The original layout was closed off and awkward, dominated by an oversized spa tub and minimal flow.
We reimagined the floor plan, relocating the toilet and shower along an exterior wall. This allowed us to introduce two new clerestory windows-flooding the space with soft, natural light while preserving privacy.
Frameless glass doors with custom etched panels add a refined touch, offering both openness and discretion. The result is a serene, contemporary bath with subtle luxuries and thoughtful details that reflect the couple's elevated, global perspective.
What Our Clients Say
"We can't thank Debra enough for the incredible ideas she brought to redesign our home! Starting with the kitchen, we love how she opened up the entire space. It flows beautifully from the kitchen (the tile is amazing!) to the dining room, living room, and the new stairs and landing.
Her vision truly brought everything together. Despite the tricky angles of our original house, she managed to unify it all seamlessly, which is exactly what we hoped for. The cabinetry is fabulous, and the fireplace is nothing short of spectacular. The stonework and new blinds are perfect touches.
We absolutely love our new home!"
- Karen & Todd B., Aptos
