8 Total Kitchen Redos

After: Enlightened

The new design balances light, color, and texture in a marriage of modern and traditional materials. A taller, narrower over-sink window and a vertical glass-block backsplash behind the stove circulate light and minimize glare. Frameless fir cabinets are warm and textural, whereas the cool glass tile is sleek and shiny.

The Details
Tile: Blue and black glass tiles from 1 to 8 inches square are arranged in a stylized patchwork pattern on the backsplash. Blue-flecked granite is a natural foil for the contemporary, solid-color tile.

Appliances: The substantial range, backsplash, and hood offset the visual mass of the refrigerator cabinet. Additional light enters the room through a small skylight that's contiguous with the wall; glass shelves in the alcove let the light from above shine through.