Renovation of a ’70’s Kitchen

This ’70’s kitchen had an awkward semicircular island and red high-gloss lacquered cabinets and was a relatively dark space separated from the rest of the house. The challenge was to add more light, improve usability and bring the kitchen and the rest of the house together. See the end result of this kitchen renovation project in this House & Home video:

A section of the wall between the kitchen and the dining room was removed, allowing natural light into the space.
Hardwood flooring was continued from the front of the house into the kitchen, replacing the tile floor.
Trim around doors and windows was changed to match the front of the house.
Focal display areas were created by adding shelving over the sink and a pantry/desk area. These were painted in a different color to make it more furniture-like.
The peninsula was replaced with a large island in the center of the kitchen. It divides the cooking area from the guest and desk area and provides buffet space.
Exposed brick wall was left exposed for a touch of warmth.
Wraparound cabinets were a workaround to the ceiling beam between front and back of kitchen.
Different shades of white applied to cabinetry, trim, ceiling, and walls unify the space.
Clear pendant lighting was installed over the island.