Before & After: The Robbins Island Luxury Kitchen Transformation

//INTRODUCTION

A Kitchen That Reflects Coastal Luxury

When our client on Robbins Island envisioned a modern, high-functioning coastal kitchen, they wanted more than a renovation — they wanted a complete reinvention.

This before-and-after story showcases how WORKS by JD transformed a dated, dark space into a bright, functional, and luxurious kitchen that mirrors the elegance of its oceanfront surroundings.

//before

Before: A Kitchen That Hid Its Potential

The original kitchen featured:

Heavy wood cabinetry and limited natural light
A boxed-in layout that isolated the cooking area
Outdated finishes and inefficient storage
Narrow walkways that interrupted flow

Despite its challenges, our design team saw a hidden gem: a space with panoramic views and structural potential for an open, light-filled transformation.

//after

After: A Modern Coastal Masterpiece

The reimagined kitchen now showcases:

Expansive quartzite island with integrated seating for family gatherings
Custom white oak cabinetry crafted for balance and warmth
Seamless storage systems with concealed appliances and soft-close mechanisms
Recessed and pendant lighting layered for ambiance and precision
Marine-grade finishes designed to withstand coastal humidity

“Every inch of the Robbins Island kitchen was designed to reflect light, life, and connection.” — Jesse DeBenedictis, Founder, WORKS by JD

//DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS

Key Materials & Finishes

Color Palette: White Sandstone, Coastal Clay, and Brushed Nickel Accents
Lighting: Mixed ambient and task lighting with sculptural fixtures
Countertops: Honed quartzite with waterfall edge
Cabinetry: Locally built, inset design with dovetail joinery
Flooring: Engineered oak with matte finish for timeless durability

//PROCESS OVERVIEW

The Design-Build Approach

WORKS by JD’s integrated design-build process ensured this kitchen was not only visually stunning but engineered for lasting performance:

Consultation & Vision Mapping – We defined goals around functionality and aesthetics.
3D Design & Visualization – Renderings helped the homeowner envision each element.
Precision Build Execution – Our team managed construction in-house, ensuring seamless coordination.
Final Detailing & Quality Check – Every seam, fixture, and finish was verified by our project lead.

//VISUAL SUMMARY

Before & After Visual Summary

Before – Dark, segmented layout; low visibility and underutilized space.
During – Structural redesign and cabinetry fabrication improved flow, symmetry, and natural light.
After – Full coastal luxury reveal; bright, open, and inviting culinary centerpiece.

Before

After

//testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Everyone I worked with on the team was terrific. Communication was excellent, prompt and timely, giving us nudges as needed to keep the project moving. They accommodated with schedule changes and changes to the project. We were able to keep track of daily progress in the Works by JD Portal while we were away. We would use them again and certainly recommend them. Our kitchen is beautiful, everyone loves the transformation. We are very happy with the end results!

Barbara Aiken-Ali

Newburyport

Jesse and crew just finished our kitchen remodel, and we are just blown away! Results are beautiful and they were on time and on budget! Every member of the crew is pleasant and professional. Plan to bring them back for our master bath remodel. We cannot recommend WORKS by JD more highly!!!

Judy Kauffman

Salem

We are very pleased with our kitchen renovation. The team was extremely courteous, talented and hard-working. The end product was fabulous! We are thrilled with our new kitchen.