Some homes whisper their history… and others insist you honor it. The Delaford residence did both. What began as a modest request — “Can we update the kitchen island?” — quickly revealed itself as something far more exciting. Because once Murphy & Moore took a closer look, it became obvious: refreshing one piece while leaving the surrounding architectural quirks untouched would feel like putting a couture dress on with house slippers. Technically possible… definitely not advisable.
Instead, the design team embraced a full, holistic transformation — reimagining the kitchen, laundry room, and mudroom in a way that marries the home’s 100-year-old charm with modern innovation and ultra-refined craftsmanship. And the result? A warm, sumptuous, drop-everything-and-stare masterpiece.
A Kitchen Designed for Drama (and Daily Living)
Image: Cabinetry design and architectural space planning by Murphy and Moore Design / Prop styling and florals by Revel and Hearten / Photography by Ashley Gieseking
The first major move: removing the existing cabinetry to introduce elegant radius cabinetry that gracefully navigates the home’s quirky doorway placements. These curves don’t just solve a layout challenge — they add sculptural softness against the bold, matte black cabinetry.
And that cabinetry!
Finished in a deep matte black and paired with integrated walnut drawer heads, it blends heritage richness with a quiet, contemporary edge. Murphy & Moore doubled down on glam with polished brass hardware, including routed-out pulls and classic cremone bolt details — the kind of jewelry that makes an outfit.
A Glowing Tribute to the Past
Image: Cabinetry design and architectural space planning by Murphy and Moore Design / Prop styling and florals by Revel and Hearten / Photography by Ashley Gieseking
One of the most considered elements is the way the designers honored the home’s original architecture. Those 100-year-old transom windows? Instead of removing them, they were meticulously integrated into a new glass display cabinet, now glowing from within. At night, it becomes the warm heart of the kitchen — a softly lit showcase of the homeowners’ china.
It’s the perfect example of the team’s philosophy: transform boldly, but always with reverence.
A Kitchen Island That Refuses to Be Ignored
Image: Cabinetry design and architectural space planning by Murphy and Moore Design / Prop styling and florals by Revel and Hearten / Photography by Ashley Gieseking
This island is not just a surface — it’s an experience. On one end, the waterfall stone cascades downward in a dramatic, sculptural moment. On the other, a 4-inch-thick, naturally oiled walnut top offers both warmth and function. It could be used as a cutting board… but let’s be honest, the homeowners treat it like fine art (as they should).
The natural stone deserves its own spotlight: subtle turtle-shell veining that weaves together the wood tones of the ceiling with the home’s neutral floors. It’s the visual bridge that ties the entire space together in a single, breathtaking sweep.
And because luxury should also be livable, a built-in Wolf coffee system with a mug-warming drawer and a tucked-away appliance garage keep the surfaces serene and uncluttered. Morning rituals never looked so good.
The Laundry Room: High-Gloss, High-Glamour
Image: Cabinetry design and architectural space planning by Murphy and Moore Design / Prop styling and florals by Revel and Hearten / Photography by Ashley Gieseking
Laundry rooms rarely get their moment, but this one absolutely steals the show.
Murphy & Moore opted for 100-sheen high-gloss cabinetry — an automotive-style finish that bounces light beautifully around the room. A custom drying rack makes space for delicates, and the sink beneath the window turns everyday chores into a surprisingly peaceful ritual.
A Mudroom With a Wink to History
Image: Cabinetry design and architectural space planning by Murphy and Moore Design / Prop styling and florals by Revel and Hearten / Photography by Ashley Gieseking
Every inch of this renovation honors the home’s legacy, but nowhere is that more charming than in the mudroom.
Here, sleek cabinetry is adorned with lion-head door knockers — a regal, unexpected detail pulled directly from the home’s original front door. It’s whimsical yet deeply rooted in the home’s story, a signature Murphy & Moore move: thoughtful, tailored, unforgettable.
For more kitchen design ideas, check out:
- A Light Blue-gray Italian Kitchen That Redefines “La Dolce Vita”
- A Kitchen that Tells a Story
- Upgrade Your Kitchen Without Even Renovating It
- Kitchen Backsplash Mistakes You Should Never Make
- Essential Feng Shui Rules for a Balanced and Prosperous Kitchen
- Feng Shui Tips: Colors to Skip in Your Kitchen
Final Thoughts
Image: Cabinetry design and architectural space planning by Murphy and Moore Design / Prop styling and florals by Revel and Hearten / Photography by Ashley Gieseking
The Delaford renovation is a masterclass in nuanced luxury — bold enough to feel fresh and exciting, but grounded enough to feel like it’s always belonged. By preserving the home’s architectural soul while introducing modern craftsmanship and daring material choices, Murphy & Moore created a kitchen (and laundry room… and mudroom) that feels utterly timeless.
And to think… it all started with just an island.
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