A Modern Transformation: Seattle Kitchen Remodel with Hardwood and Butcher Block

The heart of this Seattle home was a dated and dim kitchen that no longer met the needs of its owners. They dreamed of a brighter, more functional space that felt both modern and inviting. The existing layout was inefficient, with limited counter space and inadequate lighting that made the room feel cramped. The primary goal was to create a warm, welcoming environment for cooking and entertaining, while maximizing storage and introducing durable, high-quality materials that would stand the test of time.

Grand Building Construction embarked on a comprehensive remodel to bring this vision to life. The transformation began by replacing the old, worn-out flooring with beautiful engineered hardwood, which immediately warmed up the space. We installed new base and upper cabinets, significantly increasing storage and improving the kitchen’s workflow. The introduction of rich butcher block countertops added a touch of rustic charm, perfectly complementing the modern tile backsplash. To complete the modernization, we updated the entire lighting scheme with recessed lighting, casting a bright and even glow across the revitalized kitchen. The result is a stunning and highly functional kitchen that has become the true centerpiece of the home. See more of our work in our before and after gallery.

Project Details

Materials & Finishes Used

• Flooring: Engineered hardwood flooring – 7-inch wide plank oak in a natural, satin finish.
• Cabinets: Shaker-style custom cabinets. Uppers painted in Sherwin-Williams ‘Pure White’ and base cabinets in ‘Naval’.
• Countertops: Solid Acacia butcher block countertops with a food-safe oil finish.
• Backsplash: 3″x6″ white ceramic subway tile in a classic running bond pattern with light gray grout.
• Cabinet Hardware: Amerock-brand matte black bar pulls and knobs.
• Lighting: 6-inch LED recessed can lights for general illumination and under-cabinet LED strip lighting for task areas.
• Paint: Walls painted with Benjamin Moore ‘Revere Pewter’ in an eggshell finish.

Our Process

1. Initial Consultation & Design: We started with a detailed consultation to understand the homeowner’s vision, functional needs, and budget. Our design team then created a 3D rendering to help visualize the new layout, materials, and finishes.
2. Demolition and Preparation: Our crew carefully demolished the existing kitchen, removing old cabinets, countertops, and flooring. We then handled all necessary prep work, including minor plumbing and electrical adjustments to accommodate the new layout.
3. Installation: This phase involved the meticulous installation of all new elements. We began with the engineered hardwood floors, followed by the base and upper cabinets. Our skilled craftsmen then perfectly fitted the butcher block countertops and installed the tile backsplash.
4. Finishing Touches & Final Walkthrough: With the main components in place, we focused on the details: painting, installing new lighting fixtures, and adding hardware. We concluded the project with a final walkthrough with the homeowners to ensure every detail was perfect and they were completely satisfied with their new kitchen.

Permitting & Code Compliance

For a kitchen remodel of this scope in Seattle, both electrical and plumbing permits were necessary. The project involved installing new recessed lighting and altering the electrical layout, which requires an electrical permit to ensure all work is done to code and is safe. Similarly, because the sink and faucet were replaced and plumbing lines were adjusted for the new cabinets and countertops, a plumbing permit was required. Grand Building Construction managed the entire permitting process for the homeowner, from application to final inspection. We ensure that all work not only meets but exceeds local building codes, providing our clients with peace of mind and a safe, compliant, and beautifully finished project. Learn more in our Remodeling Cost Guide.

Why Choose Grand Building Construction?

At Grand Building Construction, we are committed to delivering exceptional quality and honest, transparent service to our clients in the greater Seattle/Tacoma area. We understand that a remodel is a significant investment, and we pride ourselves on competitive pricing without compromising on craftsmanship. Our team is flexible and works closely with you to bring your vision to life, on time and on budget. We believe in building lasting relationships with our clients through reliable communication and a dedication to exceeding expectations on every project.