How to Open Up a Small Kitchen

Our design ace, Candice Olson, turns a small kitchen into a gathering spot for a growing family

Written by Norman Kolpas • Photographed by Brandon Barre

Getting meals together for homemaker Chantal's three hungry children, ages eight, four, and two -- plus entertaining for the family's grown-up friends -- really taxed her kitchen. "I felt like I was running a restaurant," she said. But renovation plans for the suburban 1960s home got put on hold when Chantal and husband Jeff's youngest child was born with a heart defect requiring surgery. "He's doing great now," says Home contributing editor Candice Olson, who, with her team, created a stylish yet relaxed place for Chantal to cook for her brood while watching over them. Olson first removed a wall separating the kitchen from the family room and blocking views to the garden, where the kids love to play. She then fashioned a great room-kitchen where old-fashioned built-ins partner with pro-grade appliances. "I still feel like I run that restaurant," Chantal said. "But now I like going to work!"

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