Kitchens Are Having Their Moment in the Sun

Skyline Ridge kitchen with a view

The Evolution of the Kitchen

The kitchen has undergone one of the most significant transformations in residential design. Once a purely utilitarian space tucked out of sight, it has evolved into the true center of the home — where meals are prepared, conversations unfold, guests gather, and daily life naturally converges. As homes have become more connected and lifestyle-driven, the kitchen has shifted from workspace to living space, shaping how families interact and experience their homes.

We spend nearly 30% of our waking hours at home in the kitchen — and at Trailside Homes, we believe spaces that matter this much deserve to be designed with exceptional intention.

Designing Kitchens Around the Way You Live

At Trailside Homes, kitchen design doesn’t begin with trends or predefined layouts — it begins with listening. Every decision we make is shaped by how our clients envision living in their home, ensuring the kitchen becomes a natural extension of both lifestyle and setting.

DESIGNED TO ENJOY THE SURROUNDINGS

Skyline Ridge kitchen with views
Skyline Ridge kitchen with a view

Because we build in extraordinary environments, the relationship between the kitchen and the outdoors is foundational. Orientation, window placement, and sightlines are carefully considered to maximize enjoyment of the time spent there — whether capturing the cozy wooded retreat feeling of Suncadia, serene golf course vistas in Tumble Creek, or the sweeping mountain views found at Skyline Ridge. The goal is a kitchen that feels connected to its surroundings rather than separated from them.

OPEN, CONNECTED LIVING SPACES

Skyline Ridge open concept living
Skyline Ridge open concept living

Modern kitchens serve as gathering spaces as much as cooking environments. We prioritize open plans that allow effortless flow between kitchen, dining, and living areas — supporting entertaining, family connection, and everyday movement throughout the home while maintaining visual cohesion and comfort.

VISION AND COHESIVE DESIGN

Suncadia kitchen
A textured, earthy backsplash contrasting with sleek cabinets and reflecting the fireplace design in Suncadia

Every client arrives with inspiration — images saved, materials admired, ideas collected over time. Our role is to translate those influences into a cohesive design that aligns seamlessly with the architecture of the entire home. Flooring transitions, cabinetry, backsplashes, appliance finishes, lighting, and material palettes are thoughtfully integrated so the kitchen feels intentional, balanced, and timeless.

BUILT AROUND HOW YOU LIVE

Dining room kitchen with view
A kitchen, dining room, and outdoor living space sharing a view in Skyline Ridge

Equally important is understanding how the kitchen functions day to day. How mornings unfold. How holidays are hosted. How guests naturally gather. These conversations inform layout, circulation, storage strategy, appliance capacity, and features such as oversized islands, secondary prep spaces, or butler’s pantries — ensuring the kitchen works effortlessly during both quiet routines and full-house celebrations.

GIVING YOU THE TOOLS TO CREATE

Tumble Creek Kitchen
A bespoke Tumble Creek kitchen

For many homeowners, the kitchen reflects personal passions. Through discovery, we uncover opportunities to incorporate specialty elements that elevate the experience — from built-in espresso systems and dual refrigeration to wine storage, beverage stations, or even pizza ovens designed for entertaining. These details transform a kitchen from beautiful to deeply personal.

Bringing Your Vision to Life

We love nothing more than talking about custom homes, exploring new ideas, and helping homeowners shape kitchens that truly reflect how they want to live. If you’re beginning to think about a custom home — or simply wondering what’s possible — we invite you to reach out by email or schedule a brief 15-minute introductory call to start the conversation.

Kirkland kitchen
Forest and lake views in Kirkland