A Jewel Box Transformation

"Turning a Small U-Shaped Kitchen Into a Modern Masterpiece"

Chic Style Meets Practicality in 100 Square Feet

At Jewel Box Studios, we believe even the smallest of kitchens can hold the grandest of visions. This 100-square-foot U-shaped kitchen was a relic of the 1980s—dark, cramped, and begging for a breath of fresh air. What followed was a full gut renovation and a total reinvention, blending feminine charm, French-inspired finishes, and budget-savvy brilliance. The result? A radiant jewel box of a kitchen that’s equal parts elegance and efficiency.

Step 1: Demolition Daydreams

We didn’t tiptoe into this transformation—we came in swinging. Out went the tired cabinetry, laminate countertops, dated lighting, and worn floors. With the space stripped to the studs, we had a clean canvas to reimagine everything from layout to lighting.

Step 2: Budget-Savvy Planning with a Luxe Intent

Though we were working with a conservative budget, we aimed high. Every choice was strategic: keep what works (the stove and dishwasher), and splurge where it counts. Our focus? High-impact design elements, smart materials, and a refined layout that opened up the space while elevating every detail.

Step 3: Cabinetry in Cobalt—A Bold Hue, Grounded by Quiet Details

We selected in-stock cabinets from the local home shop in a rich, matte cobalt blue to bring a pop of personality and drama to the small footprint. Rather than overwhelm, the color anchored the room with confidence. We opted for matte black hardware to keep things quiet and sophisticated—a refined counterbalance that let the color shine.

To soften the upper wall space and add visual openness, we installed maple floating shelves, bringing a hint of warmth and natural texture.

Step 4: Countertops & Backsplash—A Strategic Splurge with Golden Glow

We chose to indulge in the countertops, selecting Golden Sky, a stunning faux marble quartz with warm veining that echoed elegance. Though it was a splurge, we managed to save our client 30% off the standard price.

We also reimagined the kitchen layout by lowering the previous raised counter and creating a generous island that now opens directly into the living area, making the space feel expansive and sociable.

For the backsplash, we installed a mosaic herringbone tile infused with golden threads and hints of slate gray. The subtle shimmer added just the right amount of glamour while tying in beautifully with the cobalt and quartz.

Step 5: Let There Be (Better) Light—And a Ceiling That Stole the Show

The old pendant lights? Gone. In their place: precisely placed recessed lighting for clean, even illumination. On the main feature wall, a shaded sconce offers a warm, gentle glow. Overhead, an elegant chandelier brings quiet drama and architectural harmony.

But the true showstopper? A custom herringbone wood ceiling within the recessed area—a design challenge that tested our math skills and our patience. The end result? A bespoke crown jewel that elevates the entire kitchen with craftsmanship and character.

Step 6: Appliance Harmony

While we kept the existing stove and dishwasher, we upgraded the fridge and microwave with sleek, space-conscious models from LG. Their stainless finishes added cohesion and subtle sophistication, blending effortlessly with the rest of the kitchen.

Step 7: Grounded in Style—Terracotta Charm with a Diagonal Twist

For the flooring, we went warm and timeless with a terracotta-inspired tile, a nod to European farmhouses. Laid on the diagonal with off-white grout, the tile adds visual movement and classic charm.

And the best part? This stylish floor cost just $60 to tile the entire kitchen. Chic and savvy—just the way we like it.

The Big Reveal Coming Soon : A Feminine French-Inspired Jewel Box with Practicality

This kitchen now whispers of the French countryside while working hard like a modern culinary hub. The cobalt cabinetry, maple shelves, and mosaic backsplash sing in harmony. The farmhouse sink offers generous function, while trimmed windows and custom lighting add layers of detail and polish. And beneath it all, full-extension drawers bring practical ease to everyday cooking. Stay tuned for all the before-and-after photos, as this gem is still a work in progress.

At Jewel Box Studios, we believe great design happens where beauty and function meet. This transformation proves that with creativity, intention, and a little daring, even the smallest kitchens can become the brightest gems in the home.