TUDOR, TAKE TWO

A renovation puts a light, bright spin on a classic style and also opens a kitchen and breakfast room to new possibilities

- JODY GARLOCK

Before a renovation begins in earnest, there's typically a get-to-know-you period when the designer quizzes the homeowners about their lifestyle. With kitchens, designer Melissa Lewis keys in on three things: How big is your family? How much do you entertain? How big is your Thanksgiving turkey? As curious as it may sound, that last question stems from a life lesson. Shortly after she was married, Lewis bought her first Thanksgiving turkey-a 24-pounder. She managed to shove the big bird into her apartment's oven but ultimately caused a small oven fire and ruined the dinner.

A wide arched opening ensures easy flow between the renovated suburban Chicago kitchen and breakfast room. A half-wall with a countertop previously separated the two spaces. Designer Melissa Lewis had a limewash applied to lighten the fireplace stones, which had become dingy. An abundance of white finishes and sunlight streaming through windows brightens the rooms.