When we first walked into this 1977 ranch-style home in Raleigh, the kitchen felt like a beautifully preserved time capsule – filled with vintage charm, but ready for a new chapter. Our newlywed clients – inspired by their honeymoon in Paris – envisioned a space that captured the effortless elegance of Parisian chic – a thoughtful blend of vintage character and modern refinement. With a modest footprint and a carefully defined budget, every design decision had to be intentional. We embraced these constraints as creative opportunities, proving that small-space design doesn’t have to mean sacrificing beauty or function.
A Bold Cabinet Color That Anchored the Design
Rather than defaulting to a light neutral palette – often used to make small kitchens feel larger – we embraced color with confidence, inspired by the kind of bold, romantic design often found in old-world European homes where charm and character are layered into every detail. Sherwin-Williams’ Reddened Earth, a warm, earthy but bright terracotta, became the centerpiece of the design. This unexpected hue was reminiscent of the home’s original warm wood cabinets – adding depth, personality, and warmth to the space.
We paired it with a white/ blue floral ceramic tile backsplash – a heartfelt nod to our clients’ heirloom china – giving the kitchen a sense of story and history. Dark grey, veined granite countertops and matte black plumbing fixtures introduced modern contrast – clean lines and cool finishes that subtly juxtapose the soft, handmade look of the tile.
At House of Maevie, we believe small kitchens – which often lack dramatic scale or standout architectural features – are the perfect canvas for bold colors or patterns. These design choices infuse a sense of presence and personality, helping compact spaces feel character-rich, and full of life.
Gelosia Blanc Blue Glazed Ceramic Tile by Country Floors
Honoring the Past with a Vintage-Inspired Detail
We love incorporating something vintage into every project – it adds a layer of meaning, along with an unexpected patina or form that brings character and history to the space. In this kitchen, the original scalloped wood valance – once tucked above the sink – was reimagined as a charming detail above the open shelving at the bar area. This small but intentional touch creates a bridge between past and present, blending traditional charm with an eclectic spirit. It’s a reminder that vintage elements – when thoughtfully repurposed – can bring authenticity and warmth to a modern home.
Reclaiming Space: A Clever Pantry Solution
Storage was one of the biggest challenges in this petite Raleigh kitchen. The existing closet was too small to be truly functional, so we designed a custom pantry cabinet in its place – providing full-height storage and a built-in spot for the microwave. This approach gave our clients the storage they needed while keeping the space feeling balanced, efficient, and visually clean.
Designing small kitchens is always an invitation to get creative — and when every inch counts, the details matter even more. We gravitate toward an aesthetic that feels collected and layered – blending vintage heirloom touches, earthy tones, and charming nostalgic details that give a space heart. It’s proof that a home doesn’t need grand square footage to feel special – just meaningful design choices that create warmth, character, and a sense of story.
If you’re ready to bring this kind of intentional design into your home, we invite you to fill out our inquiry form to start your journey.
