Tempe Luxury Open Concept Kitchen Remodel
Creating Architectural Definition Within a Grand Open Space
2015 NARI Contractor of the Year — Best of Show
Residential Kitchen Remodel | Over $120,001
When an Open Floor Plan Still Feels Incomplete
This luxury open concept kitchen remodel in Tempe transformed a large great room into a space with clear architectural definition, improved functionality, and a stronger connection between living areas. While the home offered generous square footage, the kitchen lacked presence within the space, feeling visually lost and undefined within the open layout.
The lack of structure created a disconnect. The homeowners loved to entertain, but the kitchen did not support natural flow between cooking, dining, and gathering areas. Despite the size of the space, it felt incomplete rather than cohesive.
The goal was not to close off the layout, but to bring clarity and purpose to it. Achieving this required thoughtful architectural design, custom cabinetry, and a refined approach to space planning. Projects like this highlight the nuance of open concept home remodeling in Tempe, where openness must be balanced with definition to truly succeed.
Recognized for Excellence in Design and Execution
This project earned the 2015 NARI Contractor of the Year Best of Show award, recognizing the quality of design, craftsmanship, and execution.
More importantly, it reflects the value of a coordinated process. Because the remodel required architectural elements, custom cabinetry, appliance integration, and workflow planning, every decision needed to align from the beginning. This level of integration is central to a design-build remodeling approach in Tempe, where planning and construction are developed together.
Creating Definition Without Losing Openness
The greatest challenge in this project was not size—it was structure within the space.
The kitchen needed presence without sacrificing openness. Rather than introducing heavy structural changes or altering ceiling heights, the design introduced a more refined architectural solution.
Decorative eight-foot columns paired with a custom arched room divider create a subtle boundary between the kitchen and dining area. This approach defines the space while preserving sightlines and flow.
The result is a kitchen that feels both open and grounded—clearly defined, yet fully connected to the rest of the home.
Custom Cabinetry That Becomes Part of the Architecture
Cabinetry played a central role in shaping both function and identity.
Fully custom cabinetry was designed and fabricated specifically for the space, allowing every proportion, finish, and detail to align with the overall vision.
Soft gray tones with a subtle black glaze establish a refined base, while the island introduces contrast with a charcoal-stained cherry finish. Decorative elements—including fluted columns, mullion glass doors, and crown molding—reinforce the architectural presence of the kitchen.
A built-in hutch anchors the transition between kitchen and dining, further strengthening the sense of structure within the open plan.
The Island as the Center of the Home
At the heart of the kitchen is a large, multifunctional island that defines how the space is used.
More than a workspace, the island becomes the social center of the home—supporting cooking, conversation, and gathering simultaneously.
The design incorporates a professional-grade gas range, integrated storage, and seating for multiple guests. A raised decorative section introduces dimension to the granite surface, creating both visual interest and functional separation.
A hands-free foot pedal at the sink reflects the level of detail considered throughout the project—enhancing usability without disrupting the design.
Work Zones Designed for Effortless Entertaining
A key improvement in the redesign was the introduction of clearly defined work zones.
The original layout lacked organization, making it difficult to cook and entertain at the same time. The new plan separates tasks into dedicated areas for baking, beverage preparation, and food storage.
Walkways were carefully dimensioned to support movement while subtly guiding guests away from active cooking zones.
This level of planning ensures the kitchen functions seamlessly—whether for daily use or large gatherings.
Appliances and Features Built for Performance
This kitchen was designed for serious use.
High-performance appliances—including SubZero refrigeration, Dacor cooking equipment, and a dedicated beverage center—support both everyday cooking and entertaining.
Integrated features such as pop-up outlets, concealed ventilation, and dual-function accessories maintain clean lines while delivering advanced functionality.
These elements are not added for show—they are integrated to support how the homeowners live.
Interior Storage That Keeps the Kitchen Effortlessly Organized
True luxury often reveals itself in what is not immediately visible.
Inside the cabinetry, a complete system of organization ensures every item has a place. Rollout trays, vertical dividers, appliance lifts, and integrated waste systems keep the kitchen clean and uncluttered.
This level of organization supports both efficiency and visual clarity—allowing the design to remain the focus.
Materials That Anchor the Design
Material selection reinforces the kitchen’s architectural presence.
The island features Fashion Bordeaux granite, whose movement and depth create a striking focal point. Its warmth complements the darker cabinetry while contrasting with the lighter perimeter finishes.
The backsplash combines honed travertine with subtle jewel-toned accents, introducing texture and personality without overwhelming the design.
These materials create a layered composition that feels balanced and intentional.
Lighting That Defines the Experience of the Space
Lighting serves as the final layer that brings the kitchen to life.
A decorative chandelier anchors the island, while recessed lighting provides consistent illumination. Under-cabinet lighting enhances task visibility, and above-cabinet lighting introduces ambient warmth.
Together, these layers allow the space to transition seamlessly from everyday use to evening entertaining.
Why Structure Is Essential in Open Concept Design
Open concept kitchens succeed when they are intentionally structured.
Without definition, even large spaces can feel incomplete. By introducing architectural elements, organized work zones, and layered materials, openness becomes purposeful rather than undefined. Homeowners looking to better understand how these decisions come together often explore the Homeowner Core Guides.
A Kitchen That Now Anchors the Entire Home
Today, the kitchen stands as the centerpiece of the home.
It is visually defined yet fully connected. It supports entertaining without sacrificing function. It reflects craftsmanship, intention, and personal style.
What was once an undefined space has become an architectural anchor—one that shapes how the entire home is experienced.
What Defines a Successful Luxury Open Concept Kitchen
A successful open concept kitchen is not defined by size—it is defined by clarity.
It requires architectural definition, thoughtful layout, and materials that reinforce the design. When these elements align, the kitchen becomes both the center of the home and a reflection of how people live within it.
Explore Related Remodeling Possibilities
Homeowners exploring similar projects often continue with:
- Kitchen remodeling contractor near me in Tempe
- Whole-home remodeling in Tempe
- Home addition contractors in Tempe
Considering a Luxury Kitchen Remodel in Tempe?
A well-designed kitchen should do more than impress—it should support how you live, cook, and gather every day.
At Homework Remodels, we guide homeowners through a thoughtful design-build process that aligns architecture, function, and craftsmanship from the beginning. Our team includes NARI Certified Remodelers, ensuring a high level of expertise throughout the project.
Project Specifications
Project Name: Open Concept Luxury Kitchen Remodel
Location: Tempe, Arizona
Project Type: Kitchen Remodel
Remodeling Method: Design-Build Remodeling
Builder: Homework Remodels
Completion Year: 2015
Award: 2015 NARI Contractor of the Year — Best of Show
Key Features: Architectural column divider, custom cabinetry, two-tone finish, large island with seating, SubZero refrigeration, Dacor appliances, beverage center, layered lighting