We’re thrilled to share that This Old House recently featured one of our latest kitchen transformations, a 1937 Lannon-stone Colonial in Wauwatosa, WI, where thoughtful design turned a narrow, 168-square-foot kitchen into a highly functional, beautifully refreshed space.

For the homeowners, this renovation was about expanding the footprint simply wasn’t an option. The dining room wall that could have accommodated a bump-out held original curio cabinets and intricate plaster molding — details they loved and didn’t want to lose. Instead of building bigger, they partnered with Story Hill Renovations to build smarter.

A tall, 93-inch pantry now anchors one wall, making unloading groceries and prepping meals easier than ever. A more substantial island adds four extra feet of workspace, while base cabinets beneath the bay windows create a buffet zone ideal for entertaining. Additional cabinetry around the range increases prep space, and removing an old broom closet frees up room for a built-in trash and recycling roll-out.

The result blends modern efficiency with timeless character: painted trim to brighten the space, warm beige-and-gold backsplash tones, and subtle stone veining that complements the home’s historic charm. As the Smiths put it, the outcome is “a classic traditional kitchen that seamlessly complements the rest of the house.”

To read the full article on This Old House and to learn see more Story Hill Renovations Stories visit: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/kitchens/130451/1937-colonial-kitchen-redesign