Make it Modern

After multiple renovations over more than 20 years, Laura and Elliot Dinkin now have their dream kitchen thanks to Marvista Design + Build.
Photography by Dave Bryce.
This article appears in the Spring 2022 issue of *Pittsburgh’s Finest Kitchens*. Visit Don’s Appliances showrooms for a copy or buy one here.

Laura and Elliot Dinkin know the ins-and-outs of home renovations. Over the course of more than two decades living in the same house, they’d survived two-and-a-half redesigns in order to accommodate their changing needs. “We’ve had everything from architects to planners to Home Depot,” says Laura.

After their kids moved out, the couple began searching for a smaller residence; however, finding the right space for themselves and two dogs proved difficult. “We also love our neighborhood. It’s where I grew up and raised my children. It meant a lot to me to be able to stay,” she says.

Instead, the couple decided to do “one, immaculate, all-together complete renovation” to refresh the nearly century-old home.

In the course of her work as a Howard Hanna Real Estate agent in the Squirrel Hill office, Laura happened to meet Michael Jacobs, president of Marvista Design + Build. When they discussed design, they clicked.

This kitchen’s crips, modern outlook makes it a bright and easy place to cook, to eat, and to enjoy.

Emily Borne, lead designer at Marvista, worked closely with the homeowners to understand their needs and priorities, such as high-end appliances. It was also important that the team work within the boundaries of the existing space, rather than change the footprint.

“Our main objective was to bridge the gap between a very traditional home architecturally and some of [Laura’s] inspirational images, which tended to lean towards modern looks,” says Borne.

Fine appliances serve the needs of enthusiastic cooks, as do ample counter-space and a well-designed island.

Without removing any walls, Marvista updated the overall traffic flow by replacing an obstructive peninsula that caused congestion when the couple was entertaining. A functional island in the center of the room now stands in its place.

Borne did implement one structural change: flipping the location of the sink and the stove. Previously, a range hood obscured the window, blocking much of the natural light.

The clean, modern palette of materials extends from the kitchen to this home’s baths and powder rooms.

An Art Deco-inspired backsplash, featuring Inara Salt Glaze marble tile, creates a focal point that complements the contemporary fixtures, including an Italian porcelain tile floor in Tulsa Charcoal, custom metal shelves and hood by Stoll Industries, matte black pendant lights by Hubbardton Forge, and a Brizo Solna articulating faucet.

Custom Millbrook cabinets, manufactured by Plain & Fancy, are made from rift-cut white oak with a matte gray finish. They deliver a transitional style that’s “a more modern take on a Shaker look,” says Borne. Additionally, she chose the island’s legs to mimic the style of the doors.

Finishing touches include interior and under-cabinet lighting by Hafele, a built-in TV above the pantry, and plenty of organizational features nestled within the cabinets.

The homeowners couldn’t be happier with the result. “This was my third-and-a-half rodeo,” says Laura. “This time, I knew what I wanted.”

Appliance list by DON’S APPLIANCES

Sub-Zero Built-In French Door Refrigerator/Freezer

Wolf 30” Gas Range and Oven

Cove Dishwasher

Wolf 24” Transitional Drawer Microwave

Sub-Zero Undercounter Wine Storage