There's no doubt that the kitchen has always been the heart and soul of the Reed household. Both Eileen and Steve Reed love to cook, so it wasn't a surprise to anyone that when their children grew up and moved out, and the Reeds became official empty-nesters, the first item on their remodeling agenda was the kitchen.

"We wanted to enlarge the kitchen area, which actually is a kitchen-combination living area with an open floor plan," says Eileen Reed, "I would come in and stare at it and try and figure out how to do that creatively. I finally said to my husband, ‘Why don't we meet with a kitchen designer?'"

Enter Michele DeCorby, kitchen designer for Austin's Kitchen Craft Cabinetry. After meeting with the Reeds, DeCorby quickly ascertained that the Reeds needed to create a dramatic space that utilized the living area, kitchen, and their back yard. The Reeds appreciated how DeCorby created a personalized entertainment area that was built around their own personal style.

"She came up with some things that were phenomenal," says Reed. "Michele said that if we're going to go through all the work of remodeling, we needed some ‘eye candy' with dramatic lines and features. She acted as our personal consultant all through the project, from helping us select hardware, cabinet finish and paint color to giving me ideas about how to tie the living room and the kitchen to ensure their design flowed together nicely."

The Reeds ended up gutting their existing space, adding 300 square feet, and putting in new cabinets and new appliances, as well as installing hardwood flooring throughout to create continuity between the living and kitchen areas. Eight-foot French doors leading to the Reeds' backyard were installed, as well as a stained concrete slab that matched the home's interior colors, thus enhancing the sense of flow throughout the home.

"She was able to bring the outdoor element into our home and create one space," explains Reed. "I have a good decorating sense, but I work full-time, and would never have known about all the options Michele provided. She gave excellent advice, and we now have a kitchen we and everyone else loves."

Austin Kitchen Craft Cabinetry specializes in cabinetry, counter tops, kitchen design and installation. Visit their showroom at 7415 Burnet Road in Austin, or call 512-302-3700. You may also visit their website at www.kitchencraftaustin.com.