Glendale, known as the “Jewel City,” is celebrated for its rich tapestry of architectural history. From the stately Spanish Colonials of Rossmoyne to the intricate Craftsman bungalows of the Verdugo Woodlands, homes here possess a character that is impossible to replicate in new construction. However, living in a piece of history often comes with compromises, specifically in the kitchen. At Nobel Builders, we specialize in the delicate art of renovation that respects the past while embracing the future.
Our recent kitchen remodeling project in Glendale exemplifies our passion for architectural integrity. The homeowners lived in a charming 1920s Spanish Revival home that was rich in original details but suffered from a kitchen that was dark, cramped, and severely outdated. The challenge was not just to update the space, but to do so in a way that felt “original” to the house. They wanted a high-performance chef’s kitchen that didn’t look like a spaceship had landed in their vintage home. Our mission was to weave modern convenience seamlessly into the historic fabric of the property.
The “before” state of this Glendale kitchen was typical of the era: a small, utilitarian room separated from the dining area by a swinging door, with tiled countertops that had seen better days. The homeowners wanted to open the space up to entertain, but they were terrified of losing the home’s soul.
We approached the layout changes with extreme care. Instead of simply blowing out walls to create a generic glass box, we focused on architectural continuity. We widened the passage between the kitchen and the formal dining room but replicated the home’s original archways in the new opening. This created a better flow for dinner parties while maintaining the distinct “room” feel that defines Spanish architecture. It was an update that felt like it had always been there.
To achieve the client’s vision, we adopted a “Transitional” design language. We balanced period-correct aesthetics with modern durability. The goal was to create a space that felt warm, lived-in, and authentic.
One of the defining features of this remodel was the ceiling. We discovered original Douglas Fir beams hidden above a 1970s drop ceiling. We exposed and restored these beams, staining them a rich espresso to contrast with the warm white plaster walls. This immediately added vertical volume and historic gravity to the room.
For the cabinetry, we moved away from the standard “white shaker” look. We designed custom inset cabinetry painted in a soft, sage green, a color often found in historic tilework. We used unlacquered brass hardware that will develop a patina over time, furthering the sense that the kitchen is aging gracefully with the home.
In Glendale’s prestigious residential pockets, Nobel Builders specializes in bridging the gap between 1920s charm and 2020s reliability. Our team navigated the Glendale Community Development Department’s design guidelines to integrate period-appropriate windows and custom millwork, while simultaneously performing a complete infrastructure overhaul that included copper and PEX repiping and an electrical upgrade for dual-fuel appliances. Adhering to strict EPA lead-safe renovation protocols and California Title 24 energy standards, we installed high-efficacy LED lighting concealed within structural beams to maintain a clutter-free, historic aesthetic. By modernizing the “guts” of the home while preserving its architectural soul, we transformed this property into a high-demand, turnkey asset that commands a premium in the robust Glendale real estate market.
Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and start the next chapter of your Glendale home’s history with expert restoration and modernization.
