Award-Winning Orinda Mid-Century Modern.

Columbia Cabinets • Excellence in Design Award

This Orinda residence had remained largely untouched since it was built. If there was ever a home that could be described as "original," this was it. The bones were exceptional—it simply needed a thoughtful update. Exposed beams, skylights, and an open layout gave the home incredible character and provided the perfect foundation for a modern renovation. The entire space was taken back to the studs and rebuilt, creating a kitchen that feels contemporary while remaining true to the home's architectural roots.

Some homes deserve a fresh start. Others deserve to have their best qualities revealed.

Monday Morning Cabinet Company supplied the cabinetry for the complete renovation. A classic shaker door in Clear Alder was finished in Sandbank, bringing warmth and natural texture to the space while complementing the original wood ceiling beams, which were later painted white. Rather than competing with the home's architecture, the cabinetry was designed to feel as though it had always belonged there.

The layout centers around a generous nine-foot island that anchors the room for cooking, gathering, and entertaining. A hidden walk-in pantry keeps everyday storage out of sight, while a dedicated coffee bar and custom open shelving provide both function and display space. Every cabinet was planned around the way a family lives, creating a kitchen that is as practical as it is beautiful.

The finished project was recognized with two industry awards:

Columbia Cabinets • Excellence in Design

Stanisci Hoods‍ • ‍National Design Award

Cabinetry: Columbia Cabinets

Finish: Clear Alder • Sandbank

Scope: Cabinetry design, drawings, specification, and supply

Award-winning Orinda mid-century kitchen remodel featuring clear alder cabinetry, a nine-foot island, and an open layout.
Nine-foot kitchen island with clear alder cabinetry and seating in an award-winning Orinda kitchen remodel.
Hidden walk-in pantry with floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry in an award-winning Orinda kitchen.
Hidden walk-in pantry with floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry in an award-winning Orinda kitchen.
Custom range wall with handcrafted hood and clear alder cabinetry in a mid-century Orinda kitchen.
Integrated refrigerator panels and full-height pantry cabinetry in a custom Orinda kitchen.
Kitchen sink overlooking the backyard with clear alder cabinetry and quartz countertops in Orinda.
Open-concept mid-century kitchen remodel designed to preserve the character of a 1954 Orinda home.
Drawing of Back wall - Kitchen Remodel Mid-Century Modern Orinda
Coffee Bar & Custom Shelving Drawing for Kitchen Remodel Mid-Century Modern Orinda
Orinda Mid-Century Modern Hidden Pantry Drawings

Before: A 1954 Mid-Century Time Capsule

This home wasn't stripped of its character over the decades—it had simply been left untouched. Original cabinetry, exposed beams, skylights, and authentic mid-century architecture remained exactly where they belonged.

The new cabinetry was designed to feel like a natural continuation of the home's original architecture, complementing its timeless design.

Dated and old mid-century modern kitchen in Orinda, CA pre-remodel.
Dated and old - original Orinda Mid-Century Modern Kitchen pre-remodel.
Dated and old mid-century modern home in Orinda, California - pre-remodel.

ADU in Walnut.

The project also included a separate ADU kitchen, finished in walnut cabinetry that echoes the warmth and craftsmanship of the main residence while giving the secondary living space its own distinctive character.

ADU remodel in the Orinda Hills. Walnut cabinets and kitchen area. Perfect for a weekend stay.
ADU in Orinda hills redone with walnut cabinetry.
ADU in Orinda Hills, California. Walnut cabinetry, cooktop, fridge, statement countertops. Perfect for a weekend stay.
Next

Blackhawk Transformation