Award-Winning Kitchen Remodel in Gainey Ranch, Scottsdale: A Culinary Showpiece Reimagined

Nestled in the heart of Gainey Ranch—one of Scottsdale’s most exclusive golf course communities—this once builder-grade kitchen has been completely transformed into an elegant, functional, and award-winning culinary destination. Designed and built by the expert team at Homework Remodels, the project took home the 2016 NARI of Greater Phoenix Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award for Best Kitchen Remodel Over $150,000.

What was once an outdated, inefficient room is now a center of inspiration and admiration—a kitchen that balances sophisticated design with real-life functionality.

From Builder Grade to Bespoke: The Homeowners’ Vision

The original kitchen reflected its era: basic cabinetry, an awkward floor plan, and underwhelming finishes that no longer served the needs—or the tastes—of the homeowners. With a passion for cooking and entertaining, they envisioned a kitchen that could do more than just function. They wanted it to feel luxurious, work intuitively, and serve as a warm, welcoming hub for guests and gatherings.

The Homework Remodels team worked closely with the homeowners to design a space that would exceed expectations in both performance and aesthetics—blending timeless appeal with modern amenities.

Laying the Foundation: Space Planning and Layout

Before a single tile was laid or an appliance selected, the team rethought the entire footprint. The old floor plan was disjointed and inefficient, with limited prep space and poor traffic flow. Through careful planning and collaborative design, the layout was restructured to create distinct zones for cooking, prepping, dining, and entertaining—each one intentionally aligned for ease and comfort.

The reconfiguration included relocating appliances, optimizing sight lines, and, most importantly, establishing a central island that visually and functionally anchors the space.

A Kitchen Island That Does It All

Far more than just a design centerpiece, the new island became the heart of the remodel. Custom-built to accommodate seating, storage, and meal prep, the island now offers a flexible workspace that adapts to any occasion. Whether hosting a holiday dinner, enjoying morning coffee, or serving hors d’oeuvres to guests, this island makes it all seamless.

Concealed cabinetry offers extra storage for small appliances and cookware, while the overhang provides casual seating for three—perfect for relaxed conversations or quick bites. It’s a striking example of how good design can serve both form and function.

High-Performance Appliances, Thoughtfully Integrated

No luxury kitchen is complete without equally luxurious appliances. Homework Remodels installed a Sub-Zero Wolf triple-column refrigeration system to meet the homeowners’ expectations for professional-grade performance. This suite includes a full-size refrigerator, freezer, and dedicated wine column—all beautifully integrated into the surrounding cabinetry for a clean, flush appearance.

These aren’t just status symbols—they’re engineered to perform. With smart temperature controls, flexible storage, and whisper-quiet operation, the appliances bring culinary precision and energy efficiency to everyday use. The range, ovens, and built-in microwave were selected with equal care, ensuring each component supports the kitchen’s purpose.

Imported Materials and Statement Finishes

Perhaps the most eye-catching detail in the kitchen is the marble tile backsplash—a subtle, sophisticated surface imported directly from France. Its gentle veining and warm, organic hues create a refined contrast to the darker granite countertops, while pairing beautifully with the custom-carved stone range hood above.

The ceiling treatment added another layer of visual interest. A metallic faux finish was hand-applied to the recessed cove ceiling, reflecting light and elevating the entire space with a soft, shimmering effect. This finish was thoughtfully extended into the adjacent dining room, maintaining continuity and elegance throughout the open-concept space.

Flooring That Grounds and Glows

The previous flooring was removed and replaced with a custom installation of Crema Marfil porcelain tiles accented with inlaid Indian Black granite. This combination offered a warm, classic foundation underfoot while also introducing a dramatic visual rhythm.

The new floor is not only durable and easy to maintain, but also enhances the kitchen’s sense of scale and symmetry. It’s a subtle detail with a powerful impact—quietly supporting the room’s layered design elements.

The Impact: Beauty, Function, and Recognition

What sets this remodel apart isn’t just the beautiful materials or the high-end appliances—it’s the harmony of the entire space. Every decision, from cabinetry layout to lighting placement, was made with the homeowners’ lifestyle in mind. The finished kitchen now supports the rhythm of daily life while delivering the wow-factor worthy of its CotY Award recognition.

More than just a place to cook, this kitchen is:

• A professional-level culinary environment
• A social hub for entertaining
• A personal sanctuary with enduring style

It’s a space that looks as good as it lives.

Inspiration for Scottsdale Homeowners

Whether you’re in Gainey Ranch, Paradise Valley, McCormick Ranch, Arcadia, or another Scottsdale neighborhood, this project offers a blueprint for transforming a basic kitchen into a showstopping space. The key to success? Thoughtful planning, timeless materials, and a design-build partner who understands how to turn vision into reality.

This project is a reminder that when executed well, kitchen remodeling is about more than aesthetics—it’s about enhancing the way you live.

FAQs: Luxury Kitchen Remodeling in Scottsdale

What is the average cost of a high-end kitchen remodel in Scottsdale?
Most luxury kitchen renovations in the area range from $125,000 to $250,000+, depending on scope, appliances, layout changes, and finish level. This particular remodel exceeded $150,000 due to its imported materials, structural updates, and premium appliance integration.

How long does a kitchen remodel like this take?
Full-scale projects of this nature typically take 3 to 6 months, from initial design through permitting, demolition, construction, and finishing. Homework Remodels follows a proven design-build process that keeps everything on schedule.

Can you remodel just part of my kitchen?
Yes. While this project was a complete transformation, we also offer partial kitchen remodels. Whether you need a layout refresh, new cabinetry, or appliance upgrades, we can tailor the scope to your needs and budget.

Your Dream Kitchen Starts Here

At Homework Remodels, we specialize in high-end kitchen transformations across Scottsdale and the Greater Phoenix area. From builder-grade beginnings to award-winning finishes, our design-build team brings creativity, craftsmanship, and care to every remodel.