In the world of kitchen renovations, there are those rare moments where the past and present seamlessly coexist—where architecture’s legacy is honored, but modernity is embraced. This stunning kitchen, designed by Jennifer Orr of Studio Red, is one such moment. It’s an embodiment of mid-century design, but with a distinctly contemporary twist. And at the heart of this transformation is ARKA Cabinets, elevating every detail with impeccable craftsmanship and innovative solutions.
The home itself is an homage to mid-century modern architecture, with its simple, clean lines and open, airy spaces that create a timeless backdrop. However, like many homes of its era, the kitchen had long outlived its original charm. Its dated layout and materials no longer reflected the home’s inherent style or the desires of its owners. The solution? A thoughtful, sophisticated remodel that reimagined the space without sacrificing its soul.
One of the most captivating features of the home is the abundance of expansive windows, framing panoramic views of the Pacific Northwest landscape. Jen’s design takes full advantage of this natural connection, integrating the kitchen with the outdoors through materials and finishes that mirror the beauty just outside. The choice of flat-panel painted doors, paired with rich walnut accents, creates a warm color palette that flows effortlessly between the interior and exterior, grounding the kitchen in mid-century design while giving it a contemporary update.
When ARKA Cabinets steps into a project, our job isn’t just to build cabinets but also to elevate the design with technical decisions that aren’t always obvious at first glance. This particular project posed an interesting challenge: a balcony above the kitchen. While most kitchens don’t require cabinetry that can be seen from an elevated vantage point, this home did. To ensure every inch of the space was perfect, we finished the tops of the cabinets with the same level of care as the fronts, making the cabinets impeccable from every angle. No detail is too small when it comes to building high-end cabinetry.
Another standout feature of the design is the squared, floating shelves. We always scribe shelves to the wall—a technique where we carefully shape the back edge of the shelf to follow the subtle imperfections of the wall surface. Even in new construction, walls are rarely perfectly straight. Scribing allows us to get a tight, clean fit so the shelves sit flush against the wall, with no gaps or visible seams. This installation approach makes the finished product look intentional and built-in, like it’s always been part of the space.
Mid-century design is often defined by its minimalist ethos and clean lines, making traditional hardware a non-starter for this project. Instead of conventional handles, we installed mortise handles, flush with the drawer fronts. Each handle opening has to be custom-routed into the face of the drawer or door. We individually cut every piece to make sure that the handles were perfectly aligned and recessed to the right depth. It’s a technical process, but it’s what gives the cabinetry that clean, built-in look that mid-century design demands.
Of course, no modern kitchen would be complete without intelligent storage solutions—and this space is no exception. Pull-out pantry drawers provide easy access to everything from dry goods to kitchen gadgets, while pocket doors discreetly conceal appliances, keeping the kitchen looking pristine. Custom cutlery organizers, heavy-duty drawers with built-in lid storage, and even the back of the island thoughtfully utilized for extra storage—every inch of this kitchen serves a purpose. The result is a clean, organized space that feels both functional and serene.
But as any design professional will tell you, a kitchen remodel is only as successful as its execution. Cabinets can be stunning in concept, but if the finishing isn’t right or the installation is subpar, the final result will disappoint. That’s why ARKA Cabinets is committed to the perfect execution. From the first design meeting to the final install, we bring expertise, precision, and a deep respect for craftsmanship to every project. We obsess over those finishing touches—the millimeters that no one talks about but everyone notices.
As you step into this newly renovated kitchen, you can feel it—everything just clicks. The materials, the layout, the quiet confidence of a space that knows exactly what it’s doing. It honors the home’s mid-century roots without feeling stuck in the past, and thanks to thoughtful design and precise execution, it now works beautifully for modern life. Are you ready to choose a kitchen design that will work for your house?
