This project is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can completely transform a dated space, without adding square footage.

These homeowners live in the popular Five Forks area, where their traditional 1990s home sits on a large wooded lot. Their kitchen has beautiful backyard views and abundant natural light — but the layout, finishes, and storage simply weren’t working. After years of frustration, they were ready for a kitchen renovation that felt timeless, functional, and tailored to how they live every day.

Goals for This Five Forks Kitchen Remodel

If you know anything about 90s-style homes in the Upstate, you’ll know many of them have the same challenges: dated wallpaper, awkward layouts, and never enough storage. We set out to change

Project Goals

• Update the 90s finishes to a timeless, classic design

• Improve the layout without major structural changes

• Maximize storage within the existing footprint

Aesthetic Updates: From 90s Traditional to Timeless Classic

Every feature of this kitchen was upgraded during the remodel into a space that feels classic and elevated.

• Removing Cabinet Soffits – We removed the dated soffits and extended the new custom cabinetry all the way to the ceiling. This instantly made the room feel taller and more open.

• Custom Cabinetry – The new custom cabinets feature inset doors, decorative toe kicks, and thoughtful trim details, subtly adding elegance.

• Quartz Countertops + Full-Height Backsplash – We replaced the dark composite countertops with quartz and carried the same material up the wall as a full-height backsplash. The fabricator added a decorative beveled edge detail around the range, creating a beautiful architectural focal point.

• Statement Range Hood – The custom hood, accented with decorative corbels and sconces, became the centerpiece of the space. Classic brushed gold fixtures add warmth and contrast against the lighter finishes.

Layout Improvements That Changed Everything

While finishes matter, layout is what truly transforms how the kitchen functions. The original raised bar-top peninsula made the kitchen feel closed off from the rest of the home. It also curved around, narrowing the entryway and creating a pinch point.

By redesigning the cabinet layout and lowering the peninsula to one level, we opened sightlines to the backyard and created a more inviting seating area.

Expanding the Kitchen with a Custom Wet Bar

One of the biggest challenges was finding a way to expand the kitchen without adding onto the home or sacrificing living room space. Our team thought outside the box to convert the adjoining hall bathroom into a wet bar, which extends the use of the kitchen into the hall and creates another great spot for guests to gather!

For homeowners in Five Forks who love hosting but don’t want to commit to a full addition, a thoughtful redesign like this can be a smart and impactful solution.

Maximizing Storage Without Changing the Footprint

Custom cabinetry allows us to fully optimize storage — something builder-grade cabinetry simply can’t accomplish. Here’s how we added over 15 feet of additional countertop and storage space without expanding the kitchen:

• Removed soffits to increase upper cabinet height

• Replaced an awkward corner pantry with a full wall of drawers and cabinetry

• Removed an unused built-in desk and replaced it with functional storage

Considering a Kitchen Remodel in Simpsonville, SC?

Many homes in the Five Forks area were built in the 1980s and 1990s. While homes from this era have great bones, original kitchens & bathrooms are often due for a remodel.

At Ferguson Builders, we specialize in design-build kitchen remodels in the Simpsonville area and throughout the Upstate. We’d love to help you transform your dated kitchen into everything you’ve dreamed of!

If you’re ready to reimagine your kitchen, schedule a consultation to start your Five Forks kitchen remodel!

Project designed in collaboration with Emily Rebecca Design