La Jolla Spanish Remodel: Kitchen Before + After
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This La Jolla kitchen remodel began as a small, outdated workspace with limited storage and makeshift solutions. While the natural light and original architecture had promise, the room lacked the warmth and functionality needed for everyday use. Our design goal was to create a space that felt tailored to the home—practical, refined, and rooted in classic Spanish style.
Custom Cabinetry for a Better Layout
The previous kitchen relied on metal shelving, exposed cookware, and mismatched cabinets, which made the room feel tighter than it actually was. We replaced all existing storage with custom cabinetry designed specifically to fit the unique dimensions of the home. This allowed us to maximize usable space, create cleaner sightlines, and eliminate the visual clutter that had dominated the original layout. With the new cabinetry in place, the kitchen immediately felt more intentional and balanced.
Hand-Painted Tile + Terracotta Flooring
To give the kitchen an authentic Spanish foundation, we introduced hand-painted blue-and-white tile as the backsplash. Its subtle imperfections and artisan character brought depth without overwhelming the compact footprint. On the floor, we installed terracotta star-and-cross tile imported from Mexico—warm, matte, and full of natural variation. Together, these materials define the palette for the entire kitchen and give it a sense of history and craftsmanship that aligns with the architecture of the home.
Polished Nickel Fixtures + Functional Upgrades
We elevated the functionality of the space with a large apron-front sink, a polished nickel bridge faucet, and matching hardware throughout. These finishes complement the warmth of the terracotta and the pattern of the backsplash, creating a cohesive blend of old-world detail and modern usability. A newly defined range alcove and simplified lighting plan further enhance the kitchen’s usability and help highlight the handcrafted materials.
The updated kitchen now feels cohesive, warm, and aligned with the home’s Spanish character. Custom cabinetry, artisan tile, and upgraded fixtures transformed a dated, crowded space into a functional and inviting room that serves as a natural extension of the rest of the remodel. The footprint remained the same—but with thoughtful changes, the overall experience of the kitchen is entirely new.