Mid-Century Modern Magic: A Phoenix Remodel Featured on HGTV
In the heart of central Phoenix’s charming Marlin Grove neighborhood, a distinct mid-century modern home designed by renowned architect Ralph Haver underwent a stunning transformation. This remodel, completed by Homework Remodels, reimagined the home’s kitchen and great room with a fresh blend of historic charm and modern sophistication.
The result? A project featured on HGTV’s Bang For Your Buck, hosted by HGTV’s interior designer Lisa LaPorta. This national spotlight celebrated how thoughtful design, timeless materials, and smart investment choices can truly pay off.
A Vision for Open, Contemporary Living
The homeowners loved the architectural personality of their mid-century home but wanted a space better suited for today’s lifestyle. Like many homes from the 1950s, the kitchen was compartmentalized and disconnected from the main living areas.
Their vision called for a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living spaces—while preserving the home’s signature Haver charm. The Homework Remodels’ team brought that vision to life using their signature Design-Build process, delivering expert craftsmanship and value every step of the way.
Breaking Down Barriers: Literally
The first step was removing the outdated, boxed-in kitchen island, which blocked both movement and visibility. Eliminating this feature instantly opened the space and allowed for a more inviting layout.
In its place, our team installed a suite of sleek, frameless UltraCraft cabinets with an acrylic finish, balancing high-end European design with durability and function. Eye-catching orange accent cabinets added a playful, mid-century nod and provided striking contrast. Stainless steel kick plates at the base brought a refined, industrial edge.
The centerpiece was a new, oversized island topped with waterfall quartz countertops—a luxurious feature that now anchors the entire kitchen with style and purpose.
Floating Cabinets & Light-Filled Spaces
Moving beyond the kitchen, the design introduced a dramatic touch: floating cabinets in the adjacent dining area. These weren’t just floating in concept—they were supported by a custom tubular steel framework, giving the illusion they were suspended midair.
This inventive feature added storage while allowing natural light to move freely throughout the space. A dated side door was replaced with a large picture window, and the floating cabinets allowed sunlight to spill across the floors and walls, enhancing the airy, open concept the homeowners dreamed of.
Lighting That Works Hard and Looks Beautiful
The lighting design was carefully considered—both for function and for atmosphere.
Under-cabinet lighting was installed beneath the upper cabinets and floating shelves, activated by touch and used to highlight the shimmering mosaic glass tile backsplash. In place of the original fluorescent ceiling box, a sleek cable lighting system was installed. This contemporary solution provided layered illumination without interfering with the exposed ceiling beams—one of the home’s defining mid-century features.
Every lighting decision enhanced both form and function while preserving architectural integrity.
Recognized on HGTV: Bang For Your Buck
The success of this remodel caught the attention of HGTV. The home was featured on HGTV’s Bang For Your Buck, where it was compared to two other kitchen remodels in a similar price range.
Host Lisa LaPorta, HGTV, and a local Phoenix real estate expert evaluated each remodel for design, functionality, materials, and investment return. The Homework Remodels project stood out for its bold design choices, seamless layout, and overall enhancement of the home’s character and livability.
The floating cabinets, premium quartz surfaces, modern lighting plan, and overall space planning were all praised as high-impact, smart design choices. This remodel wasn’t just a visual win—it was a strategic investment in both the property and the homeowners’ quality of life.
A Design-Build Approach That Delivers
The Marlin Grove remodel is a perfect example of what’s possible when you work with our team of trusted, professional contractors in Greater Phoenix.
At Homework Remodels, we follow the Design-Build System—a collaborative approach that blends design creativity and construction know-how under one roof. From concept to completion, our experienced team manages every detail, ensuring your vision is fully realized without stress or surprises.
This process streamlines timelines, ensures budget clarity, and provides a unified team that communicates and collaborates from start to finish.
Our Remodeling Specialties
Whether you’re looking to modernize a mid-century classic, update a kitchen or bath, or add livable space to your home, Homework Remodels offers award-winning remodeling services, including:
-
Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels
-
Whole-Home Renovations
-
Room Additions & Expansions
-
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Casitas & Guest Houses
-
Attic Conversions & Garage Remodels
-
Historic Home Restorations
-
Custom Cabinetry & Built-ins
-
Design Consulting & Interior Planning
Serving Homeowners Across Greater Phoenix
Based in Phoenix, Homework Remodels proudly serves homeowners throughout the Valley, including:
Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Paradise Valley, Ahwatukee, Glendale, and Peoria.
No matter where you live in the Greater Phoenix area, our team of professional contractors brings the same level of care, creativity, and craftsmanship to every project.
Featured on HGTV — and Ready to Work With You
Being featured on HGTV wasn’t just an honor—it was a testament to the care, talent, and design-forward thinking that go into every Homework Remodels project. This Phoenix kitchen renovation stands as proof that good design isn’t just about trends—it’s about timeless improvements, smart investments, and livable beauty.
If you’re ready to start your own transformation—whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, addition, or whole-home renovation—let Homework Remodels help you create magic in your own space.
Let’s Talk About Your Remodel
📞 Call us at (602) 478-5102
🌐 Or visit www.homeworkremodels.com to schedule your consultation.
Homework Remodels – Trusted, Award-Winning, and Proudly Featured on HGTV.