When homeowners begin planning a remodel, they often want more than a fresh look — they want a space that feels welcoming, functions better for everyday living, and won’t look dated in a few years. This recent kitchen expansion remodel and living-space transformation by Marrokal Design & Remodeling is a perfect example of how thoughtful design, strategic layout changes, and cohesive material selections can reshape the way a home lives and feels. Interior Designer Baylee Ruiz walks us through the inspiration behind this remodel, sharing how she guided the homeowners through key design decisions and helped them achieve a warm, timeless aesthetic
Designing for Warmth, Comfort, and Everyday Living
When the remodel began, the homeowners weren’t tied to a specific style — they simply wanted a home that felt cozy, welcoming, and updated. They love hosting, so creating a space that felt spacious and comfortable for gatherings was a top priority.
To better understand their preferences, Baylee began by laying out a variety of samples in both cool and warm tones, helping them discover a direction that felt right for their home. Building the palette in stages allowed the design to evolve naturally and ensured the selections aligned with their goals.
A Larger, More Functional Kitchen Through Smart Expansion
One of the biggest transformations in this remodel is the kitchen expansion. The original kitchen felt compact and tight, with limited seating and less-than-ideal circulation. By pushing the space back six feet, the team dramatically opened the kitchen, creating better flow, improved seating, and easier access to appliances and prep areas.
A standout element is the new island topped with a beautifully selected slab. Because it anchors the room visually, the design team built the rest of the color palette around it, ensuring harmony throughout the space.
The layout also improved functionality. With the wall oven now positioned for better accessibility, homeowners can safely pull out heavy dishes without having to navigate a crowded kitchen — a detail that becomes invaluable during holidays and gatherings.
A Cohesive, Cozy Living Area Anchored by an Electric Fireplace
An essential part of this remodel included updating the living area to make it feel more inviting. The homeowners debated between a gas and an electric fireplace, ultimately choosing the electric one for its warmth, ambiance, and cost-effectiveness.
Because the space was pushed outward during the kitchen expansion, the living room now feels significantly more open. The result is a seamless connection between the kitchen and living area — ideal for entertaining or simply relaxing at home.
Creating a Timeless Look That Won’t Feel Dated
When selecting finishes, Baylee emphasized longevity. Many homeowners want their remodel to feel fresh but not trendy. Most importantly, they don’t want to remodel again in five or ten years. Choosing materials and colors with staying power allowed this home to feel modern yet classic.
According to Baylee, open communication is essential: sharing preferences, hesitations, and inspiration with your designer helps ensure decisions align with both lifestyle and taste. Timeless design isn’t about playing it safe — it’s about finding balance, cohesion, and intention.
Before and After: A Transformation in Space and Feel
Comparing the before images to the after photos reveals just how dramatically the space changed. The once-tight kitchen is now spacious and open, and the living area benefits from the expanded footprint and updated fireplace. Sightlines are clearer, circulation is smoother, and the home feels far more welcoming. Watch the video above to see the before-and-after pics.
Thinking About Remodeling Your Home?
This project highlights what’s possible when thoughtful design and strong communication come together. Whether you’re looking to expand your kitchen, modernize your living area, or create a more timeless interior, partnering with the right design-build team makes all the difference.
If you’re ready to explore ideas for your home, Marrokal Design & Remodeling is here to help you create a space that feels beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours. View this Poway stunning transformation here!
Schedule your free consultation: https://www.marrokal.com/contact-us/
