A Bright and Modern Kitchen Remodel in Amherst, MA

This Amherst kitchen started out as a dark, cramped space in a classic ranch home. The clients—a young family—wanted something much brighter, more open, and easier to use. Now, their kitchen feels light, clean, and full of warmth, thanks in large part to our natural maple cabinets.

At first, the clients were excited by our bold custom colors. However, after reviewing samples and discussing the overall vision, they decided to go with a clean, natural maple veneer plywood for all their cabinet fronts. The soft grain and pale tone brighten the space without making it feel stark. As a result, these natural maple cabinets give the room a calm, modern feel while keeping it grounded and timeless.

To enhance the MCM kitchen design, we chose simple circle cut-out finger pulls. We also included clever storage solutions to make the most of the layout. For example, there’s a vertical cubby for cutting boards, open shelving for everyday dishes, and plenty of lower cabinet storage to keep things tidy.

To bring in a bit of personality, we finished the backs of the open shelves with a warm, tomato-red wood wax finish we call “pomodoro.” This small yet vibrant detail adds character without overwhelming the space. The rich red plays beautifully against the natural maple wood and crisp white walls, creating a playful but balanced contrast.

Meanwhile, the matte white quartz countertops keep everything feeling bright and airy. Their smooth finish reflects natural light throughout the day, helping the kitchen feel open even during the darker New England months.

Overall, this kitchen proves that simple, thoughtful choices can still feel special. The natural maple cabinets, paired with clean finishes and pops of color, create a space that feels modern, functional, and welcoming!

Every element of the design supports how the family actually uses their kitchen. It’s a space for cooking, gathering, and living—bright, practical, and completely at home in this house.