# Renovating a Georgian Kitchen for Modern Family Functionality Strategic layout changes and smart appliance integration transform a cramped suburban kitchen space. - **Source:** [Architectural Digest](https://brifing.si/source/d2a803b5-44d1-459b-8d0d-ae4594d3d9a4) - **Published:** 2026-11-02 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cc841fc9-752e-487e-803a-7bebb18a169e ## Addressing Structural Inefficiencies The original kitchen in this East Glenview Georgian home suffered from an awkward layout and insufficient storage for a family of five. Designer Elizabeth Smolcich of Mason Brass identified that the existing corner booth impeded flow within the 450-square-foot room. Removing this structure allowed for a larger, centered island and better spatial utility. ## Optimizing Sightlines and Flow Smolcich widened the doorway between the kitchen and living room to improve visibility for the homeowner. This architectural adjustment allows Marie Gould to monitor her three young sons while cooking. By removing the obtrusive corner booth, the designer successfully opened up the floor plan, creating a more cohesive and accessible environment for everyone. ## Customized Furniture Solutions The new kitchen island features smoky quartzite countertops and schoolhouse-style fluted glass pendants. A unique addition is a movable, upholstered banquette that functions as integrated seating. This piece pairs with an expandable dining table, which adjusts from 66 to 96 inches, providing necessary flexibility for hosting large gatherings of over 40 guests. ## High-Performance Appliance Integration To support the family’s love for entertaining, the kitchen includes a double oven and a high-performance SKS range. The range offers both induction and gas burners, catering to diverse cooking needs. The induction surface provides safety for young children, while the gas burners allow for professional-grade searing and crust development during meal preparation. ## Smart Technology Enhancements The SKS range incorporates advanced features such as rapid preheat and sous vide capabilities. Smart Knob technology includes LED screens that monitor heat levels and remaining cooking time for precision. These tools serve as time-saving hacks for the busy mother, allowing for efficient meal preparation despite the demands of a five-person household. ## Maximizing Hidden Storage Smolcich prioritized functionality by installing hidden, integrated storage around the stove for oils and seasonings. The design utilizes every available inch of real estate to ensure essential items remain within reach. An appliance garage houses smaller tools like blenders and mixers, keeping countertops clear and maintaining the kitchen’s clean, organized aesthetic throughout. ## Dedicated Beverage and Prep Zones The kitchen features dual SKS dishwashers and two distinct sink areas, including a Kohler prep sink in the island. A dedicated beverage bar contains a 24-inch refrigerator specifically for children’s juice boxes. This strategic zoning separates high-traffic areas, ensuring the kitchen remains functional even when multiple family members are using the space simultaneously. ## Designing for Long-Term Utility The renovation successfully transformed a space built for few into a hub for a growing family. By balancing aesthetic choices like brass fixtures with practical elements like the movable banquette, the design ensures longevity. The kitchen is now equipped to transition from a meal preparation area to a functional homework station for the children. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/mason-and-brass-smart-family-kitchen — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._