Back Street Retreat - Kitchen / Dining
We are excited to take you through the total renovation of this once cramped kitchen. It was so fun and rewarding for us to take this dark and secluded space and turn it into a bright and functional kitchen / dining room conducive for gathering and hosting!
Another historic home project for Shem Creek Studios, this gorgeous two story house sits tucked into a side street on Sullivans Island. Wanting to preserve the intricate historic details of this home, while giving the clients a useable space, we knew that functionality and design would need to work hand in hand.
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Overall Goals
When we first saw the kitchen and dining room, we knew that it wasn't quite working as a gathering space for the family. The setup felt cramped, and the laundry room’s location within the kitchen and dining area made it difficult for the family to comfortably come together. We envisioned a space that would be open, inviting, and highly functional—a place that could effortlessly accommodate everyday family meals and special gatherings alike.
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BEFORE
Concept to Reality
Starting with a clean slate, we created drawings in AutoCAD to envision the room as an open, empty space. Working closely with Sea Island Builders, we examined what structural changes would be possible, including the removal of the laundry room walls. With this new open layout, we could begin designing a space that balanced functionality and style, making the most of every inch.
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NEW FLOOR PLAN LAYOUT
Our Favorite Design Features
Every design choice in this space was intentional. From cabinetry layouts to the smallest decor detail, we focused on creating a room that would be as visually stunning as it was practical. For a natural touch, we opted for a contrasting wood island—a nod to the clients’ love for organic elements. To brighten the space, we added a multitude of windows, filling the room with natural light. Brass fixtures were chosen to add warmth, while honed marble countertops bring a sense of luxury. Rattan light fixtures and a custom plaster range hood were also selected to enhance the natural aesthetic that our clients cherish, creating a cohesive and inviting design.
Creating Functionality
Functionality is the foundation of our design philosophy. In this project, we spent considerable time collaborating with our clients to ensure that every detail of the cabinetry design was tailored to their specific needs. From storage solutions to the placement of key appliances, we wanted the layout to make their daily routines easier. The addition of two sinks—one by the stove and one by the dishwasher—was a feature that aligned with their preferences, enhancing convenience and workflow in the kitchen.
CUSTOM CABINETRY DRAWINGS BY SCS
EXECUTION
Design Touches
To complete the space, we focused on elements that would both visually tie together and add to its usability. Leather bar stools and dining chairs contribute a tactile, natural feel that harmonizes with the wood tones of the island and dining table. The rattan light fixtures, along with the honed marble countertops, provide the perfect balance of luxury and down-to-earth elegance.
Transforming this kitchen and dining area from cramped and dark to bright and airy has been immensely rewarding. It’s now a space that invites family and friends to gather, offering both style and functionality that suit the client’s lifestyle. This project serves as a reminder of how thoughtful design can truly transform a space—and how a dream kitchen and dining room can be brought to life with a little vision and collaboration.
Check out more photos from this project here
