Kitchen Renovation in Riverdale Victorian

About this project

This 1890s Riverdale Victorian had a kitchen that was trapped in the 1970s—dark wood cabinets, closed off from the dining room, and barely functional for a modern family. The owners wanted to open up the space while maintaining the home's historic character. We removed the wall to the dining room (with proper structural support), installed custom shaker cabinets, added a large island, and incorporated period-appropriate details like subway tile and brass hardware.

Before & after

Before

After

Scope of work

• Removed wall between kitchen and dining room
• Installed structural beam with decorative casing
• Custom shaker-style cabinetry
• Quartz countertops with undermount sink
• Large island with seating
• New hardwood flooring to match existing
• Upgraded electrical and plumbing
• Subway tile backsplash

Results

• Open concept living and dining
• Tripled counter space
• Modern function with period character
• Improved natural light throughout main floor

Project gallery

“Our 1890s kitchen was stuck in the 70s. They opened it up without making it feel like every other modern reno—it still feels like our Victorian house, just functional now. The island is where everyone gathers.”