Kitchen Remodel of the Year: A Design that Brought the "WOW!"
- Carrie Reininger
- Dec 29, 2025
- 3 min read
“There are three responses to a piece of design – yes, no, and WOW! Wow is the one to aim for" - Milton Glaser
Some projects simply stand apart. Not because they’re trendy or flashy—but because they are deeply intentional, layered with meaning, and executed with care. This Design Me Now and Kitchen Me Now Kitchen Remodel of the Year was inspired by many things, but Tan France’s home design, particularly his ability to weave elements of his Indian heritage into a modern, livable space was at the top of the list. From the very beginning, the goal wasn’t to imitate—but to interpret, respectfully and thoughtfully, in a way that felt authentic to this family. This project became our Remodel of the Year not just for how it looks, but for how it feels.
The Kitchen Remodel of the Year was Culturally Inspired
Throughout the kitchen, Design Me Now sourced materials and custom details that offer subtle nods to Indian design without overwhelming the space. A beautifully detailed wood stove surround anchors the room with warmth and craftsmanship. The custom-shaped island end panels add architectural interest and hide the outlets using clever technology and beautifully integrated details, while custom cutout pantry doors, layered with gold mesh, transform storage into a striking design feature. These details aren’t loud—they’re intentional, refined, and quietly powerful.
Designed with Texture, Character, and Patina
To balance the custom millwork, the homeowners selected Nathan James Boucle & Rattan barstools and chairs, introducing organic texture and a relaxed elegance. Antique-inspired lighting brings softness and history into the space, adding just enough patina to keep the kitchen from feeling too new or too precious. It’s modern, but grounded. Elevated, but welcoming.
Rewriting the Flow of the Home
Functionally, this remodel was transformative. We corrected a challenging traffic pattern by opening the space between the dining room and kitchen and closing off a two-room access point that no longer served the family. That reclaimed area—along with an existing coat closet—was reimagined as a butler’s pantry, complete with countertops and abundant storage for food, serving pieces, and everyday kitchen essentials. The result is a kitchen that finally flows the way it should.
Bringing Meaning into the Most Used Home Entrance
The mudroom became its own design moment, layered with intention. The wallpaper—“Hakimi” by Sanderson—adds depth and symbolism. Hakimi translates to *“wise, wise man, judge, physician, or a person of high knowledge.” It was the perfect choice to connect this hardworking space to the broader story of the home. The wallpaper is visible from the kitchen, creating continuity, while the mudroom still maintains its own distinct personality—practical, expressive, and full of character.
From Wine Storage to Coffee Ambition
One of the most personal transformations was turning a small room, historically used for wine storage, into a dedicated coffee roasting room. The homeowner roasts his own coffee—and now has a space to work, experiment, and plan how to dominate the U.S. coffee market (no small goal). During the project, we were lucky enough to sample his coffee regularly—and it’s genuinely incredible. This space isn’t just functional; it’s aspirational.
Why This Was Our Remodel of the Year
This project was about more than cabinetry, layouts, or finishes. It was about trust, collaboration, and honoring a family’s story through design. It was personal. It was meaningful. And it pushed us creatively in the best possible way.
We’re incredibly proud to have helped bring this cross-cultural vision to life—and even prouder that this home now reflects the people who live there so fully.
This one earned its WOW.
If you're ready for your own unique "WOW" design, Design Me Now and Kitchen Me Now are here for to design, build and bring the kitchen you deserve to life!
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