"My clients wanted to elevate the space and work in a pop of color," says Diaz. "We brought a little energy and fun into the otherwise white kitchen with a rich blue-grey hue."

What started out as a dark, dated home in Stevenson Ranch is now light, bright and transitional, thanks to the work of Melissa Diaz, owner of Stunningly Staged Homes.


The island was undersized for the expansive space and was originally decked in large, heavy rocks. The vibe was dated and dark. After it's facelift, it's now elongated and boasts a finished cabinetry look with a smooth waterfall edge.

From the light fixtures that shine with curves and movement to the backsplash that runs all the way up the wall - enhancing both the aesthetics and the space's utility for the homeowner who cooks frequently - each detail was selected with an eye for design and function.


Right off the kitchen, a convenient bar pulls double duty as storage and serving area. Transparent cabinetry and shelving show off sparkling glassware, bringing more light into the transitional space. Diaz removed all the electrical outlets from the space so that the backsplash could make a stunningly seamless statement.

The remodeled kitchen, once dim, now glows with pops of gleaming white, blues, greys and a metallic surprise: honey gold.


Originally from New York, the homeowners became quick studies of California's storied wine region and fell in love with our state's varietals. Diaz turned an under-utilized kitchen command center into custom wine storage flanked with black trim that ties in with the legs of the barstools. Bottles sparkle under new lighting that dances across the gleaming tile that appears again as the kitchen's backsplash.


The honey-gold faucet is illuminated like a jewel by the transitional lighting - also flecked with gold - that shines above.

The designer took stock of the home's good bones - cabinetry that was in excellent condition, flooring that could support the updates - and gave the space a facelift with new hardware, appliances, backsplash and remodeled island. The space is now "bright and fun," says Diaz.
Designer Melissa Diaz is the owner of Stunningly Staged Homes. 383-6283