Breathing New Life into a Century-Old Kitchen in Kearney, NE
Stephanie Bruntz, CKD, of Stephanie Bruntz Designs, had the unique opportunity to reimagine the kitchen of a nearly 100-year-old home in Kearney, Nebraska. For the family of four who used the space daily, functionality was just as important as preserving the home’s historic charm. Stephanie embraced the challenge, blending the homeowners’ ideas with smart design solutions to create a kitchen that’s both beautiful and practical.
The electrical wiring for this custom island is hidden in the table legs.
To optimize the layout, walls were strategically added and removed, allowing for full-height cabinetry that maximizes storage. During the renovation, a hidden gem was uncovered—an old brick fireplace that had been sealed off. Rather than cover it again, Stephanie chose to highlight it, using it as a focal point that inspired the room’s color palette.
A creative mix of green cabinetry and warm Hickory wood was selected to complement the exposed brick and add a touch of personality. Custom elements like the handcrafted wood hood and island with English Country Turned legs helped maintain the home’s traditional character. Thoughtful details, such as pre-drilled island legs for discreet electrical wiring, ensured modern functionality without compromising style.
The appliance garage has retractable doors that slide into the cabinet frame so that the counter space remains usable.
The finished kitchen is a harmonious blend of old and new—packed with clever storage solutions and accessories that keep countertops clear while keeping essentials within easy reach. The homeowners were thrilled with the transformation, and Stephanie and her team were proud to bring their vision to life in such a meaningful space.
Cabinetry Specs
Island
Coffee on Hickory | Standard Overlay | Solid Slab Drawers | English Country Turned Legs
Perimeter
Coffee on Hickory and SW Vogue Green | Standard Overlay | Craftsman/Slab Doors & Drawers
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“The cabinets far exceeded my expectations.”
"There is absolutely nothing I would change about the cabinets or service I received from Custom Wood Products. The cabinets far exceeded my expectations. They aren't just cabinets, they are fine furniture. Absolutely beautiful!!"
“I would never consider using any other cabinets.”
"This is my 6th house using Custom Wood Products. Have always been completely satisfied. Their cabinets are top quality and I would never consider using any other cabinets. Alan Wesel has always been very helpful and professional. 10 stars from me."
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“My parents have CWP cabinets in their home from 1991 and they still look great.”
"With hundreds of decisions to make when building a new home, the cabinets were the easiest. My parents have CWP cabinets in their home from 1991 and they still look great. Quality products, great customer service and a name they can stand behind for decades."
“They took a lot of stress off of me from the beginning to the end.”
"They were really professional and they knew what they were doing. They took a lot of stress off of me from the beginning to the end and they helped me step by step of the way. They actually exceeded my expectations and the cabinets are just gorgeous."
“Very detailed about each cabinet and drawer and what would work best for me.”
"Custom Wood Products made my remodel very easy. They helped with the layout and ideas for my new kitchen and were very detailed about each cabinet and drawer and what would work best for me. I highly recommend their services."
“Excellent company to work with, beautiful product to live with.”
"The quality and beauty of the product is outstanding, and you know that from the care and commitment of everyone involved in the process. Excellent company to work with, beautiful product to live with."
“It is a very high quality product. Friendly people to work with.”
“Gorgeous and I couldn't be happier! Thank you Custom Woods for a great product.”
