This dated 'dungeon-like' 1980s kitchen has been transformed into a bright, inviting space – it's a lesson in mixing contemporary design with original Spanish Colonial features

A midimalist kitchen with blue-green cabinets, terracotta floors, and a wooden countertop on the island.

Designing a kitchen for a period home requires a careful balance of personal style and features that honor the roots of the space. Without elements that nod to the home's architecture, the kitchen instantly feels out of place.

But this Spanish-style kitchen proves that being sensitive to the architectural elements needn't limit your design. The original features have been honored and celebrated, but so has the owner's vibrant style and love for modern details.