Located in Decatur’s Fernbank neighborhood, this kitchen renovation respects the home’s historic character while updating it for how the family lives today. The redesign focuses on the main cooking and entertaining spaces, pairing a more functional kitchen with a newly added scullery. The result is a warm, highly usable set of spaces that feel thoughtfully put together.
At the heart of the renovation is a custom fluted marble range hood that serves as the kitchen’s focal point. Crafted from honed marble with soft, organic veining, the hood introduces texture and sculptural presence while maintaining a clean, architectural profile.
In contrast, the previous kitchen felt closed in and disconnected from the rest of the home. Upper cabinets crowded the range wall, limiting both light and visual impact, and the finishes, dark, builder-grade cabinetry, a busy backsplash, and aging countertops, made the room feel dated and heavy. Storage was inefficient, with shallow drawers and limited counter space.
The new design reimagines this area as a true centerpiece. By removing bulky cabinetry and introducing the fluted marble hood, the range wall is now both useful and expressive, showcasing the craftsmanship at the core of the renovation. Warm oak trim and natural brass sconces frame the range wall, adding warmth and highlighting the space’s detailing.
To give a better sense of how the kitchen evolved, take a look at the before and after floorplans below.
Before: The existing kitchen was arranged in a traditional U-shape with appliances spread throughout the room. While it worked for day-to-day use, storage was limited and there wasn't a dedicated space for prep work, serving, or keeping countertop clutter out of sight.
After: The renovation reworked both the kitchen and laundry areas to better support the way the homeowners live. The wall separating the kitchen and laundry room was removed, and the laundry was relocated to a dedicated space within the primary suite's walk-in closet. In its place, a new scullery provides additional storage and prep space, extending the functionality of the kitchen without increasing its footprint. The kitchen was also updated with a built-in refrigerator, paneled dishwasher, induction range, workstation sink, and wine storage. The result is a layout that dedicates more square footage to cooking, prep, and storage while introducing specialized spaces that were previously lacking.
A crisp white ceramic tile backsplash wraps the perimeter of the kitchen, providing a clean backdrop that allows the surrounding materials to take center stage. Above, an oak band creates a subtle transition between the tile and painted walls while reinforcing the warmth found throughout the home.
Rich teal lower cabinetry grounds the room with color and depth, while white upper cabinets keep the space feeling bright and open. The combination creates contrast without sacrificing the quality of the design.
Honey-bronze hardware adds the finishing touch, complementing the cabinetry and oak and brass accents throughout the space. Inside, carefully planned storage solutions, including deep drawers, pull-out accessories, and integrated waste systems, ensure the kitchen functions as beautifully as it looks.
One of the most distinctive features of the renovation is the steel-framed glass partition separating the kitchen from the adjoining scullery. The slim black framing references traditional steel windows and introduces an architectural element that feels both classic and current.
While the partition helps define each space, the glass maintains visual openness. It allows natural light to flow freely throughout the home, resulting in a kitchen that feels connected, spacious, and organized.
Beyond the glass partition, the scullery provides a space for both daily routines and entertaining.
Custom cabinetry conceals a paneled wine refrigerator, while additional countertop space creates more room to get things done. A combination of open and concealed storage keeps everyday essentials easily accessible while providing a place for serving pieces and specialty items.
By relocating many of these functions to the scullery, the main kitchen remains organized and welcoming, even during larger gatherings.
The project was honored with a Bronze Award for Interior Use of Stone in the 2025 Georgia Design Awards, recognizing the thoughtful application of the custom honed marble range hood and the overall cohesion of the design.
The completed renovation demonstrates how historic homes can evolve to meet modern needs while maintaining the character that makes them special. The result is a kitchen that feels perfectly at home in Fernbank today and well into the future.
Successful renovations balance beauty and respect for a home’s existing character. At Copper Sky, we work closely with homeowners to create spaces that feel expertly crafted and tailored to the way they live. If you're considering a renovation in Decatur or the greater Atlanta area, we'd love to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn what's possible for your home.