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One of the kitchens featured on the tour is in the Happy Valley neighborhood, lovingly and meticulously remodeled by a savvy designer-homeowner over the course of the past two years.
"The home began as a modest and traditional wood paneled rancher, and has been transformed into a spacious, open and peaceful entertaining spot," according to Lafayette Juniors public relations coordinator Karen Evans. "The family wanted a modern, clean aesthetic but one that is functional and practical with kids and dogs, and comfortable for living and entertaining. The homeowner has an eye for details and was adamant that the kitchen reflect a clean and calm atmosphere. This is why there is not a single wall outlet in sight. Even their kitchen appliances are hidden ... tucked away nicely in a pull handle cabinet garage." The unique lighting over the vast kitchen island (used extensively for baking projects by their younger daughter) adds a touch of whimsy to offset the modern kitchen and adds warmth so it isn't too stark, said Evans. The kitchen features a Sub-Zero refrigerator, WOLF range, Bosch dishwasher and Bosch microwave drawer.
Another home on the tour got a vibrant, beachy kitchen redesign as part of the homeowners' larger home remodel. "The homeowners have undergone a major expansion, converting an outdoor patio to a family room, updating the interior features throughout the home including adding large, custom barn doors, a beautiful wood tile fireplace and a functional mudroom," said Evans. "Their time living in Moss Beach was an inspiration throughout the redesigned kitchen, which is light filled and bright, with beautiful pops of color and clean, timeless cabinetry and counters."
The space facilitates an indoor-outdoor lifestyle that incorporated their recently renovated yard, including a gorgeous new deck and refinished pool. Upon entry, Evans says you are struck by the wonderful flow between the home and backyard, with large windows and glass doors providing ample natural light.
Tour tickets are $50 ($45 of which is tax deductible). Tickets are available online through May 3 (http://lafayettejuniors.org/fundraisers) and at Premier Kitchens in Lafayette on the morning of May 4.
In order to manage the number of guests at each home, tour goers are asked to select one house from which to start the tour. Upon entry at the starter home, visitors will receive a program with a detailed map and driving directions to each home. Tour goers may then tour the remaining homes in any order they choose. When a home reaches capacity it will show as "sold out," but that simply means tour goers need to start the tour at a different home.
Reach the reporter at:
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA