DON'T MISS A THING

When a family returns home after years away, the spaces they create must do more than function—they must feel like a true reflection of who they are now. In this Glendora kitchen renovation, designer Christine Jahan reimagines a traditional footprint without expanding it, proving that thoughtful design can dramatically transform how a home lives and breathes. By refining awkward architectural details, elevating the ceiling, and layering custom finishes—from rich Bitter Chocolate cabinetry to mauve-toned Shangri-La quartz—Christine delivers a kitchen that is at once open, grounded, and quietly luxurious. The result is a space where everyday rituals feel effortless, and where personalization is woven into every subtle, sophisticated detail.

Inside the Glendora Kitchen Remodel with Christine Jahan

Love Happens Magazine: What was the brief for this kitchen project?

Christine Jahan: The couple had just moved back to the LA area after years away. They wanted a space that felt open, functional, and personal. They weren’t looking to expand the footprint, but the kitchen had some awkward features—like a wall bump-out that disrupted flow. My goal was to make the room feel larger and more connected without touching the structure. 

LHM: How did you approach that challenge?

Christine: We removed a wall bump-out. That was about a foot lost, you could say, of that wall. I had them just finish the walls down so the structure of the home did not have to be changed. It was a really massive difference with a small building change. The kitchen now feels taller, wider, and brighter without complex construction or permits.

LHM: What was your strategy for the layout?

Christine: We reorganized the space so the range is centered and anchors the room. Tall pantry cabinets run wall to wall and up to the ceiling for seamless storage. The design supports how people actually live while maintaining a calm, refined aesthetic.

LHM: Were there any bold or unexpected decisions you made in the design?

Christine: Raising the ceiling, because we weren’t sure if there were joists that would be visible with the new level. I also had to make sure to match the rest of the house because it’s a pretty traditional home, so we had to modernize it a little but keep it fitting.

LHM: Tell us about the finishes and materials. 

Christine: The cabinetry is fully custom in Bitter Chocolate, with subtle fluting and brass hardware for depth and texture. The countertops and backsplash are Shangri-La quartz, a soft mauve-toned stone that shifts with light. Appliances are integrated, and there’s a dedicated beverage center with two Sub-Zero drawer fridges and a tucked-away coffee station, keeping everyday use effortless while maintaining luxury.

LHM: How do you make choices about color and material for a space that’s lived in daily?

Christine: Color and material need to support daily life while elevating the experience. The quartz has personality but isn’t overwhelming. The cabinetry and finishes balance warmth and sophistication. Small details like recessed lighting placement or continuity of finishes into the breakfast nook were deliberate to make the space feel calm and wellness-focused.

LHM: What’s the in-person experience like in this kitchen?

Christine: It’s a space where everything feels effortless. The family can cook, gather, and move around without bumping into each other. The beverage center is my favorite. Having coffee and drinks easily accessible keeps the space functional but still elegant. Every corner, every detail, supports living well. 

LHM: How do you ensure a kitchen like this feels personal? 

Christine: I always start by understanding the family. Their habits, their likes and dislikes, even their personalities, guide the design. This kitchen has subtle nods to their lifestyle: relaxed yet refined, grounded yet luxurious. It’s a space that feels like them. 

LHM: Any advice for homeowners tackling a major kitchen renovation?

Christine: Design choices should feel good to you. Don’t be afraid to take risks because sometimes you’ll do something you never thought you would, like have purple in your kitchen.

Words by Matt McGarry

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