This dramatic addition, located in Northeast Evanston just a block from Lake Michigan, provides the 1958 Hemphill ranch-style house a 21st century layout redefining the center of the home.

The original kitchen in this house was tucked away in a corner and tightly designed to accommodate one cook making one dinner for one family on one schedule. The owners wanted to preserve the feel of their Mid-Century ranch and to add sparkle and function, making the large open kitchen and informal dining space the center of activity for the family, their multiple schedules, and their frequent guests.

An open-beamed ceiling with whitewashed glaze expresses the architectural form and sets the tone for the space. Premium appliances are built into one wall, with the refrigerator concealed behind frosted glass doors. The cabinets are traditional oak, but with the grain running horizontally for a more modern expression. Marble and stainless countertops provide space for multiple cooks. Open shelving gives display space for a colorful glassware collection, and one wall is brightened by an owner-designed Higgins Glass screen. A travertine table and leather Saarinen chairs from the owners’ collection complete the dining area.

Indirect lights close to the ceiling bounce light into the room, with Louis Poulsen pendants providing decorative accents, and skylights bringing in plenty of natural light. Sliding glass doors in the kitchen capture the outdoor view and give direct access to the woodsy back garden.

And what will happen to the cozy old kitchen? It will become the family’s cozy new TV room.