I’On

Project style – Transitional Coastal – Semi Custom Cabinetry – Frameless – Skinny Shaker Painted

Special features – Paneled icemaker on island / 2″ thick island countertop / Tall pantry cabinetry / plastered hood / stacked cabinetry

Challenges – Removing a pantry nook area and replacing with pantry cabinetry / Moving range from island to between windows and moving sink into island

Goal – Open up space by removing a hallway wall and pantry wall to create a seamless open floor plan. Creating a better work trianle by switching around the range and sink and making the range walll a focal point.

Designer – Erika Frizol

This transitional coastal kitchen in the charming I’On community, designed by Erika Frizol, transforms a compartmentalized space into an open, functional masterpiece. The design features semi-custom frameless cabinetry in a clean skinny shaker style with painted finish, creating a fresh, contemporary foundation with coastal sensibility. Special attention was paid to luxurious details, including a paneled icemaker seamlessly integrated into the island, topped with an impressive 2-inch thick countertop that makes a bold statement. The space is enhanced by tall pantry cabinetry that maximizes storage, a beautifully plastered hood that serves as an artisanal focal point, and thoughtfully stacked cabinetry that draws the eye upward while capitalizing on vertical space. Every element works together to create a kitchen that feels both sophisticated and inviting.

The project required significant structural and layout modifications to achieve the designer’s vision of improved flow and functionality. The team removed both a hallway wall and pantry wall, eliminating a cramped pantry nook and replacing it with efficient tall pantry cabinetry that better serves the space. The most transformative change involved relocating the range from the island to a prominent position between windows, creating a stunning focal wall, while moving the sink into the island to establish a superior work triangle. These strategic moves opened up the floor plan dramatically, creating seamless sightlines and connection between spaces while optimizing the kitchen’s workflow. The challenges of relocating major appliances—including rerouting plumbing and gas lines—were expertly managed, resulting in a kitchen that not only looks beautiful but functions infinitely better for daily living.

FAQs

What is ‘transitional coastal’ kitchen design and how does Charleston Custom Cabinetry apply it in I’On projects?

Transitional coastal design blends traditional Charleston character with clean, contemporary lines and seaside-inspired materials. At Charleston Custom Cabinetry we applied this approach in I’On by using frameless semi-custom cabinetry with Skinny Shaker painted doors, layered (stacked) storage, a plastered hood focal point, and neutral coastal finishes to create a timeless, livable kitchen tailored to local architecture and lifestyles.

Why did you choose semi-custom cabinetry for the I’On remodel?

We selected semi-custom cabinetry because it offers high-quality construction, customization flexibility, and a frameless profile that achieves a sleek, modern look while maintaining durable performance. Charleston Custom Cabinetry added Skinny Shaker doors to deliver the refined coastal aesthetic and practical storage solutions homeowners in Mount Pleasant and Greater Charleston want.

What are the advantages of frameless cabinetry in coastal Charleston homes?

Frameless cabinetry provides a clean, contemporary profile that visually enlarges spaces and simplifies installation of full-overlay painted doors like Skinny Shaker. For Charleston Custom Cabinetry clients, frameless cabinets reduce visible trim lines, improve functionality with efficient interior storage, and complement transitional coastal design found throughout Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston.

How does stacked cabinetry maximize storage and style?

Stacked cabinetry uses vertical space to combine storage and display—upper cabinets, glass doors, or open shelving above tall units create a built-in look without sacrificing function. On the I’On project Charleston Custom Cabinetry used stacked cabinets above the hood and pantry to increase organized storage, showcase decorative items, and reinforce the custom, tailored aesthetic homeowners expect.

What prompted the decision to relocate the range from the island to between windows?

Relocating the range improved sightlines, natural light, and the kitchen’s focal point. By moving the range between windows, Charleston Custom Cabinetry created a striking plastered hood wall that preserved views and allowed the island to serve as a social hub with the sink relocated for a better work triangle.

Why move the sink into the island, and what impact did it have on the work triangle?

Shifting the sink into the island centralized meal prep and cleanup and established an efficient work triangle between sink, range, and refrigerator. Charleston Custom Cabinetry’s layout changes in I’On improved cooking flow, made entertaining easier, and optimized circulation for a functional, family-friendly kitchen.

How did Charleston Custom Cabinetry increase pantry storage in a historic home with limited space?

We removed a narrow pantry nook and replaced it with full-height, tall pantry cabinetry to dramatically increase organized storage while maintaining an open plan. This approach preserves historic character yet delivers modern functionality—an ideal solution for Mount Pleasant and Greater Charleston homes.

What materials and specifications were chosen for the island countertop, and why?

The island features a 2″ thick countertop to create a substantial visual anchor and durable surface for daily family use and entertaining. Charleston Custom Cabinetry selects thickness, edge profiles, and materials to match coastal aesthetics and performance needs, balancing beauty with resilience in humid Charleston climates.

How does a paneled icemaker contribute to a cohesive kitchen design?

A paneled icemaker integrates seamlessly with surrounding cabinetry to maintain a unified, high-end appearance. In the I’On remodel Charleston Custom Cabinetry customized panels to match the Skinny Shaker doors, keeping appliance lines discreet while preserving functionality for entertaining and everyday convenience.

What is a plastered hood and how did it enhance the new range wall?

A plastered hood is a custom, textured hood finish that serves as a sculptural focal point. Charleston Custom Cabinetry added a plastered hood above the relocated range in I’On to add texture, elevate the transitional coastal aesthetic, and complement stacked cabinetry and window placement for a balanced focal wall.

How does Charleston Custom Cabinetry manage renovations in older Charleston neighborhoods like I’On?

We approach historic renovations with careful measurement, respectful design, and creative problem-solving. Charleston Custom Cabinetry conducts thorough pre-construction walk‑throughs, detailed 3D renderings, and close coordination with trades to address spatial constraints, preserve architectural character, and deliver modern functionality with minimal disruption.

What is your design and installation process from consultation to completion?

Charleston Custom Cabinetry’s process begins with a complimentary initial consultation to discuss goals and budget, followed by design development, precise measurements, 3D renderings, pre-construction review, and coordinated installation by experienced craftsmen. Clear communication and project management ensure timely, high-quality results for kitchens across Mount Pleasant and Greater Charleston.

Can you customize cabinetry finishes for coastal humidity and salt air?

Yes—Charleston Custom Cabinetry specifies materials, paints, and hardware suited to coastal conditions. We recommend durable painted finishes, proper cabinet seals, and corrosion-resistant hardware to protect cabinetry from humidity and salt exposure common in I’On, Mount Pleasant, and nearby Charleston neighborhoods.

How does choosing semi-custom cabinetry compare to fully custom options in cost and flexibility?

Semi-custom cabinetry balances cost-effectiveness with customization—offering a wide range of sizes, finishes, and configurations at lower lead times than fully custom builds. Charleston Custom Cabinetry advises clients on whether semi-custom or fully custom solutions better meet design goals, budget, and site constraints in Greater Charleston projects.

How do I schedule a consultation with Charleston Custom Cabinetry for a Mount Pleasant or I’On kitchen remodel?

To schedule a complimentary initial consultation, call Charleston Custom Cabinetry at 843-548-2436 or visit charlestoncabinetry.com. Our design team serves I’On, Mount Pleasant, and the Greater Charleston area and will review your inspiration, cabinetry options, and next steps to transform your kitchen.