In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we talk with Kelly Settle about her home renovation journey in Springboro, Ohio. Kelly initially planned a modest kitchen update, simply new cabinets and an island. But as we dug into the space with her, the scope evolved into a transformation that redefined how her family uses their home. Working with Sheri, Kelly was able to go beyond surface updates and create a space that works with the way she lives.

This was a renovation in a standard development home. Kelly and her husband had been there for over two decades and were at a crossroads: sell or stay. With a tough market in 2021, they chose to invest in their existing home. What began as a simple kitchen update turned into a full reimagining of the first floor, including integrating unused rooms into the kitchen layout. The original dining room was repurposed, the pantry enlarged, and they added a substantial island for entertaining and everyday use.

Kelly’s journey highlighted the importance of collaboration. Sheri brought creative ideas that initially surprised Kelly—like moving the refrigerator to the old dining room space—but ultimately improved function dramatically. They incorporated a sentimental butcher block table into a coffee bar, anchoring the design around a meaningful piece.

We also discussed how her budget grew from the initial estimate but stayed disciplined once the full scope was set. One challenge was the delay in flooring due to supply chain issues, which left them living on plywood for weeks. That experience underscored the importance of anticipating the unexpected in renovations.

Kelly offered advice she wished she'd had—like taking architectural plans to the appliance store to explore better equipment options. A bigger stove would’ve been a smarter choice with the space they had. She also emphasized how the design now supports how they want to live: cooking more, entertaining more, and staying in the home longer than they originally planned.

By rethinking their space rather than expanding it, Kelly’s family has gained functionality and beauty. The renovation turned what could have been a simple update into a lifestyle upgrade. Her story is a clear example of how even “just a kitchen” renovation can have deep, lasting impact when guided by thoughtful design.

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Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

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