Family Removed Breakfast Table to Fit a Large Kitchen Island and Reworked the Whole Floor

# What changed and why The homeowners wanted a large island where the family could sit and eat. Meeting that request required more than swapping finishes: the remodel moved the kitchen footprint into the former breakfast area, removed a wall of windows to free up wall space, and reconfigured plumbing and electrical to support an island-centric workflow.

# How the layout evolved

After: the breakfast table area became a wide central island that handles prep, washing, and seating. A wall that previously held windows was removed to create room for cabinetry and a built-in microwave and oven. Tall cabinet runs replaced the shorter oak footprint to add storage and appliance housing.

# Materials and fixture choices

• Cabinets: Koville White Shaker units installed around the refrigerator, cooking area, and the new appliance wall. Tall cabinets use the vertical space above and beside the refrigerator. Drawer banks replaced many small lower doors.
• Countertop: River White granite on the island and perimeter.
• Flooring: wood-look porcelain tile running through the expanded area to tie the kitchen to surrounding rooms.
• Island functions: sink, dishwasher, prep area, and seating — the island absorbed the breakfast table's gathering role.

# Demolition and construction challenges

# Lighting and electrical changes The remodel replaced a large rectangular lighting fixture with recessed lighting spread across the ceiling to serve the expanded work zones. Electrical locations were adjusted during demolition to support the island's sink, dishwasher, and any outlets required for appliances and seating convenience.

# Practical outcomes for everyday use The island became the kitchen's center: a place for washing, prepping, storing, and eating. Removing the old breakfast table didn't eliminate a gathering spot — it concentrated it into a larger, more functional surface that connects more directly to the cooking and storage areas. Tall cabinets and built-in appliances cleared counter space and increased usable storage.

# Who led the project Joel Montfort of Montfort Designs LLC handled the gut remodel, which included removing the wall with the arched opening, extending the kitchen into the former breakfast area, and coordinating the extensive demolition and reinstallation work.

# Visual and practical tone The finished kitchen reads lighter and more open than the original oak-and-tile scheme. Design choices aimed to convert an awkward eat-in pocket into a working and social hub while creating consistent flooring and cleaner cabinet runs.