Transforming an Outdated Kitchen into a Spanish-Inspired Masterpiece

At Hayes Luxe Homes, we’re passionate about transforming spaces from tired to magazine-worthy, seamlessly blending style and function. One of our latest projects is a complete kitchen remodel. The result? A stunning “Spanish transitional” kitchen that honors the elegance of authentic Spanish design while embracing a modern aesthetic.

The Beginning: Tired and Mismatched

This project began with a kitchen that mixed old-school Italian-American influence with subtle Spanish nods. It featured maple cabinets stained in a vanilla yellow, complete with ornate trim and outdated finishes that left the space feeling drab and disconnected. While many homeowners might think a complete demo is necessary, when the cabinetry quality is good but the look is outdated, there’s often an option to re-style and paint the cabinetry. This approach not only saves time and money but also retains the value of well-built cabinets.

In this case, Penelope and Burt chose to breathe new life into the existing cabinets rather than replace them. Burt meticulously stripped down the cabinetry, removing the ornate trim and rebuilding a new valance header with clean, contemporary lines. These new profiles introduced a fresh look. The cabinetry was then painted in Magnolia Home’s muted, earthy lavender shade called “In Bloom,” chosen by Penelope for its ability to add a pop of color while blending with the natural materials and textures. She says, “A well-selected shade and intensity of color can actually be as grounding in a room as white, off-white, brown, or gray. Color can serve as a neutral.”

The couple’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design. They selected stylish twisted iron hardware pulls in a matte dark bronze finish, giving the cabinets a sophisticated, artisanal touch. The most transformative element was the removal of two banks of overhead cabinets—a double-door unit above the window and another longer cabinet to the right—creating a more open and airy kitchen that aligns with today’s design trends and increases the home’s value by demonstrating a contemporary style.

With the upper cabinets removed, Penelope hand-plastered the wall to create an Old World stone finish, evoking the look of a wall that had been there for 100 years. Burt custom-built 2 1/2-inch thick raw white oak shelves, which not only provided ample storage but also served as a beautiful design feature. Anchored directly into the concrete wall, these shelves are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Open shelving is perfect for displaying glassware and mugs, and Penelope curated handcrafted clay mugs and glass mason jars for drinking glasses, adding a personal touch.

Spanish Details with a Modern Edge

The kitchen’s backsplash was another area where authenticity met contemporary design. Penelope and Burt sourced matching 4” x 4” travertine tiles to extend the existing backsplash, using them to frame the window. Penelope sourced hand-painted Spanish tiles from a skilled artisan in Mexico, integrating the new tiles to complement what was there, creating a truly unique framing touch around the window. These new tiles paired beautifully with the existing hand-painted tiles to the left of the fridge, enhancing the kitchen’s personalized, artisanal feel.

One of the key features retained in the remodel was the existing terracotta-colored Spanish floor tiles. These 14 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ tiles added warmth and authenticity, grounding the design. To solidify the look of an authentic Spanish space, Burt accentuated an archway to the left of the fridge, which became a defining architectural feature. Penelope hand-sculpted the plaster finish, using three paint colors to create a patina-aged effect on the arch, and finished it off with a set of found iron gates that she painted bronze and repurposed as an artful feature, adding a rustic yet refined element to the space.

Upgraded Functionality

Of course, no kitchen remodel is complete without modern functionality. Burt and Penelope selected stainless steel appliances, including a Bosch dishwasher and a Thermador six-burner gas stove. Their choice of a solid brass Perrin & Rowe chef’s kitchen faucet added a glamorous punch.

For lighting, they chose contemporary yet transitional fixtures that complemented the Spanish aesthetic without overpowering it. The under-counter ambient lighting on dimmers provided versatility for different occasions, creating an inviting atmosphere. These thoughtful design choices ensured the kitchen was not only visually stunning but also a highly functional space, perfect for making gourmet meals and entertaining guests in a setting that can transport you to a favorite destination while creating new, special memories.

The Finishing Touches: Where Old Meets New

This remodel was about more than just updating a kitchen—it was about creating a cohesive, timeless design that respects the past while embracing the future. Penelope’s design vision and Burt’s craftsmanship turned what was once an outdated space into a kitchen that feels like a retreat, filled with character, charm, and modern conveniences.

At Hayes Luxe Homes, we believe that every space should tell a story, and this kitchen invites you into that narrative. With its blend of Spanish influence and contemporary design, it exemplifies what transitional style can achieve. Whether you’re inspired by the warm tones of terracotta or the intricate details of hand-painted tiles, this kitchen is a beautiful testament to how old-world style can be elevated for today.

Looking to transform your kitchen? Contact Hayes Luxe Homes today, and let us help you create your dream kitchen.