From Standard to Standout: Transforming a Tract Home Kitchen - Lenton Company

From Standard to Standout: Transforming a Tract Home Kitchen

For many homeowners, buying a tract home means living with a kitchen layout that’s been repeated hundreds—maybe even thousands—of times in various neighborhoods. Built decades ago, these designs often feature the same walls, cabinets, and configurations as every other home in the model line. While they may have been functional for their time, they rarely reflect the way families live today.

But here’s the good news—a standard layout doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it. With thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship, a tract home kitchen can be transformed into a truly unique, custom space that feels fresh, modern, and entirely your own. In fact, we’ve remodeled this same tract home kitchen in this month’s featured project multiple times!

Some recent remodels began with a standard builder’s footprint of a kitchen that felt closed in and dated, limiting how the family household could cook, gather, and entertain. By reimagining the footprint—removing a wall to open the space, reconfiguring cabinets for better storage, and adding a large island for prep and seating—we created kitchens that function beautifully for our homeowners’ lifestyle. Finishes like custom-colored cabinetry, statement lighting, and modern hardware elevate the look, while details tailored to each homeowner’s taste made it unmistakably theirs.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern style, a warm farmhouse feel, or a blend of old and new, the possibilities go far beyond the builder’s blueprint. Your kitchen can be more than just functional—it can be a reflection of you.


Ready to transform your living space so it is designed to work for everyone in your household? At Lenton Company, we specialize in smart, customized solutions that make everyday living easier. See all the before and after transformation photos in our portfolio on our website. Let’s remodel a space that fits the way you live. Give us a call at 661.273.9179 or visit lentoncompany.com to get started.

DESIGN INSPIRATION: The ’90s Revival… Cozy, Curvy & Colorful Comebacks - Lenton Company

DESIGN INSPIRATION: The ’90s Revival… Cozy, Curvy & Colorful Comebacks

Everyone has a personal style—and that’s what makes design so endlessly exciting. This month’s featured homeowner knew the 1990s builder blueprint in her kitchen didn’t work for her lifestyle or taste, so we reimagined it into something timeless, functional, and perfectly her own. But while that particular ’90s layout was a no-go, the decade’s influence is making a stylish comeback in other parts of the home. From warm woods to soft curves, designers are revisiting the comfort and charm of the era, layering it with modern sensibilities for a fresh take on nostalgia, according to what’s trending in Elle Décor.

In this month’s featured project—a serene, spa-inspired primary bathroom—the homeowner had a clear vision: a beautiful, functional retreat with a place for everything… including her dog’s water bowl. Rather than leaving it as an afterthought, we designed a custom floating vanity with just the right amount of clearance underneath. This not only keeps the bowl tucked neatly out of sight but also prevents it from becoming a tripping hazard or visual distraction in an otherwise sleek space.

1. Warm Woods, Jewel Tones & Chic Metals

Beloved in the ’90s, honey oak cabinetry and rich jewel tones are reappearing—this time with a sophisticated twist. Designers are pairing oak or walnut with softened color palettes and sleek metallic accents. Chrome, once left in the shadow of brass, is stepping back into the spotlight alongside brushed finishes for a balanced, modern look. Deep jewel tones like burgundy and emerald green are back in a big way. Behr’s 2025 Color of the Year, “Rumors,” is a moody red that channels the era’s drama with a more sophisticated edge.

LENTON COMPANY PRO TIP: To create warmth with chrome finishes, mix wood furniture with chrome lighting or cabinet pulls for texture contrast. To add color depth, Use a bold jewel tone as an accent wall or an upholstery.

2. Soft Curves, Bold Shapes, Chunky Furniture

Goodbye sharp edges—hello curves. Arched doorways, rounded kitchen islands, scalloped cabinetry, and plush, curved seating all nod to the organic shapes popular in the ’90s while keeping things fresh and inviting. Oversized sofas, deep-seated armchairs, and bold silhouettes are back—and designers are updating them with better proportions and sophisticated materials to keep the look fresh.

LENTON COMPANY PRO TIP: To create curves, choose a rounded sofa common scalloped cabinet fronts, or an arched doorway detail.

3. Mixing Eras for a Modern Remix

Today’s retro revival isn’t about recreating the past—it’s about remixing it. ’90s-inspired textures and silhouettes mingle with mid-century or contemporary elements for a curated, “collected over time” feel. This mirrors the Korean “Newtro” concept, where nostalgic design elements are seamlessly woven into contemporary style.

LENTON COMPANY PRO TIP: To blend eras, pair vintage 90s finds with modern furnishings for an eclectic feel.

4. Graphic Patterns and Playful Prints

Maximalist prints, Memphis-inspired shapes, and vibrant patterns are reemerging, especially in textiles and accent pieces. Warm, inviting materials like bouclé and chenille are being reintroduced, especially in pieces with soft, sculptural curves. These textiles offer a balance of plush comfort and modern polish. A well-placed rug or throw pillow can be the perfect low-commitment way to try the trend.

LENTON COMPANY PRO TIP: For playful graphics, add pattern throw pillows or artwork for a pop of personality.

5. Unexpected Materials: Formica
Formica—once a quintessentially ’90s surface—is returning in small, intentional doses: think lamp shades, trays, and accessories. It’s nostalgia with restraint.

Why It Matters

This isn’t a wholesale revival—this is evolution. The best of ’90s design is resurfacing with modern sensibilities: richer textures, thoughtful proportions, and meaningful accents. Even though the specific layout in our featured kitchen didn’t work, other aspects of ’90s charm—like cozy comfort, inviting textures, and bold color—are finding new life in the rest of the home.

Embrace what speaks to you—whether it’s a jewel-toned accent wall, a sculptural bouclé chair, or a playful wallpaper border—and integrate it in a way that feels personal, not kitschy. That’s the essence of timeless design: nostalgia that speaks to you, not the era.

Call Lenton Company at 661.273.9179 or visit lentoncompany.com to schedule your complimentary Discovery Meeting. Let’s explore the possibilities in your home.

Pet-Friendly Features in Today’s Luxury Remodels - Lenton Company

Pet-Friendly Features in Today’s Luxury Remodels

Today’s homeowners are reimagining their spaces with everyone in mind—including the family pet. At Lenton Company, we’ve seen a growing trend in remodels that thoughtfully incorporate pet-friendly features without compromising style or sophistication.

In this month’s featured project—a serene, spa-inspired primary bathroom—the homeowner had a clear vision: a beautiful, functional retreat with a place for everything… including her dog’s water bowl. Rather than leaving it as an afterthought, we designed a custom floating vanity with just the right amount of clearance underneath. This not only keeps the bowl tucked neatly out of sight but also prevents it from becoming a tripping hazard or visual distraction in an otherwise sleek space.

It’s a small detail that makes a big difference—one that reflects a broader design philosophy: luxury doesn’t have to mean sacrificing practicality. Whether it’s built-in feeding stations in the kitchen, a cozy nook under the stairs, or durable, pet-friendly flooring, homeowners are increasingly asking how their remodel can enhance daily life for all members of the household—paws included.

Looking to design a space that works as beautifully for your pets as it does for you? We’d love to help.


Ready to transform your living space designed to work for everyone in your household? At Lenton Company, we specialize in smart, customized solutions that make everyday living easier — from floating vanities to reimagined spa-inspired spaces. Let’s design a space that fits the way you live. Give us a call at 661.273.9179 or visit lentoncompany.com to get started.

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Plumbing Trends That Blend Style, Comfort, and Innovation - Lenton Company

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Plumbing Trends That Blend Style, Comfort, and Innovation

Plumbing may be behind the walls, but today’s innovations are bringing it front and center in both form and function. From the bathroom to the kitchen, here’s what’s trending—and inspiring—when it comes to plumbing design.

Smart Shower Solutions

Safety and style are coming together in new ways in the bathroom. At Lenton Company, we’re seeing elegant, built-in grab bars, sleek ADA-compliant fixtures, and thoughtful layouts that prioritize accessibility without compromising aesthetics. One particularly inspiring trend? Integrated shower niches that are designed around the showerhead itself. These streamlined designs combine convenience with visual harmony, keeping shower essentials within reach—without interrupting the tile layout.

The Return of the Clawfoot Tub

Freestanding tubs have been a staple in luxury bathrooms, but now the classic clawfoot tub is making a comeback—with a twist. Updated materials, matte finishes, and modern silhouettes give this vintage favorite a fresh feel. Paired with stylish floor-mounted tub fillers, they offer timeless charm and a true focal point for spa-inspired spaces.

Everyday Upgrades That Make a Big Difference

In the kitchen, workstation sinks remain a top choice, offering built-in cutting boards, drying racks, and colanders for ultimate efficiency. Behind the scenes, homeowners are investing in better living through plumbing:

  • Garbage disposals with quieter motors and advanced grinding systems
  • Water filtration systems that improve taste and reduce contaminants
  • Instant hot water dispensers for tea, coffee, and cooking, right at your fingertips

These upgrades may not steal the spotlight, but they elevate daily routines in a big way.

Designing with Intention

As with all aspects of home remodeling, the best plumbing solutions are those that align with how you live. Whether it’s a safer shower, a kitchen built for cooking, or simply the luxury of hot water on demand, today’s trends prove that thoughtful plumbing is more than pipes—it’s peace of mind.

Call Lenton Company at 661.273.9179 or visit lentoncompany.com to schedule your complimentary Discovery Meeting. Let’s bring smart design into your home.

Beyond the Pantry: Creative Kitchen Storage Solutions That Work - Lenton Company

Beyond the Pantry: Creative Kitchen Storage Solutions That Work

In many homes, kitchen storage can feel like a daily game of Tetris. From bulky appliances to mismatched Tupperware and every charging cord in between, staying organized takes more than just extra shelves—it takes smart, strategic solutions. One of Lenton Company’s recent kitchen remodels is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can transform storage frustrations into functional wins. Here’s how Lenton Company turned everyday challenges into elegant solutions—and a little inspiration you can use in your own space.

1. Rethinking Pantry Potential

The homeowners initially thought to turn an under-stair closet into an extended pantry. However, the space couldn’t be used due to structural limitations. Instead, Lenton Company removed a wall between the existing pantry and fridge, repositioned the refrigerator, and created a second pantry. The result? A solution that provided more efficient storage areas for pantry-items and small appliances without sacrificing flow.

2. Island Reinvention

The original island featured deep, hard-to-access cabinets that made organization a constant challenge. In the redesigned layout, smart storage solutions were added, including vertical slots for cookie sheets and a deep double-drawer ideal for large pasta pots or tamale-making essentials. To enhance both function and hospitality, the island was extended with a built-in table-style seating area. Whether it’s breakfast with the family, coffee with a friend, or casual conversation during meal prep, this hybrid island design offers a welcoming place to gather—without disrupting the cook’s workflow.

3. Hidden Charging Station: Clutter-Free Counters

One of the favorite upgrades? A charging drawer. This simple-yet-genius solution keeps cords, phones, and tablets tucked away—yet fully powered. It eliminates countertop clutter and creates a dedicated zone for family devices.

4. Form Meets Function

Storage doesn’t have to be boring. The elegant curve of the island’s table leg is echoed in the pendant lighting, and blended storage upgrades with beautiful finishes to keep the entire space cohesive, calming, and connected.

Takeaway:

Smart storage goes beyond adding more cabinets. It’s about how you store—and making room for the way you live. Whether it’s a custom drawer to charge your devices or a well-placed pantry, great design can bring order, style, and sanity back to your kitchen.


Ready to transform your kitchen with storage that works as beautifully as it looks? At Lenton Company, we specialize in smart, customized solutions that make everyday living easier — from hidden charging drawers to reimagined pantry spaces. Let’s design a kitchen that fits the way you live. Give us a call at 661.273.9179 or visit lentoncompany.com to get started.

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Built-In Tech That Transforms Your Home - Lenton Company

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Built-In Tech That Transforms Your Home

Technology has a way of sneaking into every corner of our lives—and smart home design makes sure it does so beautifully. From tangle-free charging to lit-up closets and safety-first bathroom drawers, today’s custom remodels are elevating everyday spaces with clever, built-in electronic features.

Here’s how thoughtful tech, like docking drawers and beyond, is making life easier, safer, and more stylish—one room at a time.

Docking Drawers: Clutter-Free Charging That’s Built In

A docking drawer is a game-changer for device storage.

These cleverly designed drawers are equipped with integrated outlets or USB ports, allowing phones, tablets, and laptops to charge while tucked neatly away. A flexible, UL-listed cable system allows the drawer to open and close without damaging cords or compromising safety. The result is a clean, clutter-free countertop and devices that are always ready to go.

In-Drawer Outlets: Power Where You Need It

Appliances and grooming tools are easier to use—and store—when power is right where you need it. In-drawer outlets are a growing trend in both kitchens and bathrooms. Whether you’re plugging in a stand mixer or a hairdryer, having power inside the drawer keeps cords off the counter and devices within reach. In bathrooms, this innovation takes on a safety-first approach, especially when paired with automatic shutoff features.

Designing for Durability

Foster families—like any busy household—need spaces that can keep up. That includes durable flooring that can withstand spills, scratches, and the occasional cat chase. In this remodel, we installed waterproof, wood-look flooring throughout the kitchen and main living areas for a cohesive, low-maintenance foundation. Quartz countertops, soft-close drawers, and under-cabinet lighting completed the transformation, ensuring the space was not only beautiful, but built to last.

Heat-Sensing Bathroom Drawer Accessories

Busy mornings don’t always leave time to double-check the curling iron. That’s where heat-sensing bathroom drawers come in. These smart accessories cut power automatically when the drawer is closed, reducing the risk of overheating or fire. It’s one of those thoughtful touches that gives homeowners peace of mind without sacrificing convenience.

In-Counter Charging & Pop-Up Power Towers

Wireless charging is also finding its way into modern kitchens and home offices. In-counter charging pads are installed beneath quartz or stone countertops, allowing devices to charge just by setting them down—no cords necessary. For homes that need more accessible power, pop-up towers are a sleek solution. These hidden outlets stay flush with the surface until you need them. A gentle push reveals USB ports and plugs, ideal for everything from laptops to blenders, and they disappear just as easily when not in use.

Brilliant Lighting Features

Built-in lighting is another area where design and technology shine. Undercabinet lighting brightens workspaces and adds ambiance, while automatic closet lighting makes even small spaces more functional. One of our favorite upgrades? LED-lit closet rods. These innovative features combine structure and illumination, casting soft light on your wardrobe the moment you open the door.

Why It All Matters

These features may be tucked away, but their impact is anything but small. Built-in tech enhances safety, improves organization, and brings a level of ease that transforms daily routines. By integrating power and lighting where you need it most, your home becomes not only more functional—but more beautiful, too.

Let’s Bring Smart Function to Your Remodel

At Lenton Company, we specialize in creating homes that reflect how you live—down to the smallest, smartest details. Whether it’s a charging drawer in your kitchen, an auto-off bathroom station, or a closet that lights up your morning, we can help design a space that works better for you.

Call Lenton Company at 661.273.9179 or visit lentoncompany.com to schedule your complimentary Discovery Meeting. Let’s bring smart design into your home.

Designing with Purpose: How Foster Families Can Remodel with Safety and Function in Mind - Lenton Company

Designing with Purpose: How Foster Families Can Remodel with Safety and Function in Mind

At Lenton Company, every remodeling project begins with a conversation—and sometimes, that conversation goes far beyond finishes and fixtures. For one Lancaster family, remodeling their kitchen wasn’t just about improving flow or updating style. It was about creating a safe, welcoming environment for their children—especially the child they were fostering.

The Foster Family Difference

Foster families open their homes and hearts to children in need, often on short notice and with unique regulatory requirements. In California, the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) outlines specific safety guidelines for Resource Families (formerly known as foster families). These include locked storage for knives, alcohol, medications, and cleaning chemicals—everyday items that, in other homes, may be kept on an open shelf or in an unlocked drawer.

For this Lancaster couple, safety was top of mind from the start. In addition to rethinking their kitchen’s layout, they needed secure storage that didn’t sacrifice convenience or design. Our solution included custom locking cabinetry integrated into their new shaker-style kitchen—beautiful, functional, and fully compliant with foster care safety regulations.

Blending Safety with Style

Safety features don’t have to stand out. With thoughtful planning, they can be seamlessly integrated into a visually minimal, high-functioning space. For this family, that meant concealed storage for hazardous items, large pull-out trash and recycling units, and clutter-free countertops with hidden appliances like a microwave and toaster oven. The result? A kitchen that feels calm, classic, and kid-ready.

Designing for Durability

Foster families—like any busy household—need spaces that can keep up. That includes durable flooring that can withstand spills, scratches, and the occasional cat chase. In this remodel, we installed waterproof, wood-look flooring throughout the kitchen and main living areas for a cohesive, low-maintenance foundation. Quartz countertops, soft-close drawers, and under-cabinet lighting completed the transformation, ensuring the space was not only beautiful, but built to last.

A Reminder of the Bigger Picture

While every family’s story is different, foster families often carry extra responsibilities—emotionally, logistically, and legally. As remodelers, we’re proud to support these families by creating environments that make daily life safer and more manageable.

Whether you’re a foster parent or simply planning your next home update with children in mind, we’re here to help you design with purpose—and build with care.

Interested in remodeling your home with special considerations? Contact Lenton Company to learn how we can tailor your space to meet your family’s unique needs.  Give us a call at 661.273.9179 or visit our website.

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Color, Contrast, and Character Take Center Stage - Lenton Company

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Color, Contrast, and Character Take Center Stage

This year’s KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show) confirmed what many of us have been sensing—home design is entering a bolder, warmer, and more expressive era.

Color: Still Bold, Now Deeper

Bright and bold colors aren’t going anywhere. In fact, they seem to be gaining staying power. While we originally thought vibrant hues were a fleeting trend, they’ve proven their versatility and staying power—showing up in cabinetry, tile, and even appliances.

But it’s not all about neon or sunshine yellow. A noticeable shift is happening: from bright to moody. Darker tones—rich plums, midnight blues, deep forest greens—are making their way into kitchens and baths, offering a more grounded, dramatic alternative to brighter palettes. This aligns closely with the Benjamin Moore 2025 Color Trends, which favor nuanced, moody shades that evoke warmth and depth.

The Return of Warmth

After a decade dominated by cool grays and icy tones, warm colors are finally making a comeback. Think soft terracottas, creamy neutrals, and earthy taupes that invite comfort and create a cozy, lived-in feel. Paired with bold or dark hues, these warmer elements add balance and timeless appeal.

Patterns & Texture: Tiles That Tell a Story

Color wasn’t the only star of the show. Texture and pattern took center stage—especially in tile design. We saw finishes that offered not just color variation, but tactile experiences. Some tiles featured subtle embossed patterns, while others played with high-low texture to catch light and create movement across a backsplash or shower wall. These materials add depth and character, turning everyday surfaces into design statements.

Takeaway: Be Fearless, But Thoughtful

Whether you’re drawn to bold colors or leaning into a moody palette, the current design moment encourages creativity with intention. Layering textures, mixing warm and cool tones, and adding depth through color and pattern gives your space personality—without sacrificing longevity.

Ready to incorporate some of these ideas into your next remodel? We’d love to help you find the right balance of trend-forward and timeless.

Is a Home Addition Right for You? Five Tips to Help You Decide - Lenton Company

Is a Home Addition Right for You? Five Tips to Help You Decide

When a home holds decades of memories, moving isn’t always the answer. For many homeowners, adding square footage through a thoughtful addition is the key to staying in the home they love—while gaining the space they need.

In this month’s featured Lenton Company remodel, a two-story addition completely transformed how the family lives in their forever home.

Thinking about adding square footage? Here are five key questions to help you assess whether a home addition could be the right solution:

1. What’s not working in your current layout?

Pinpoint the daily frustrations—whether it’s a cramped kitchen, lack of storage, or not enough space for entertaining. Additions can solve specific functional challenges when a remodel alone won’t.

2. Do you have space to expand?

Take a look at your lot size and layout. A bump-out, side, rear, or even second-story addition could be an option depending on local zoning and setback requirements.

3. Will an addition improve flow or function?

A well-designed addition doesn’t just add space—it enhances how your home works. More light, better room connections, or relocating key areas — like a laundry room — can make a big difference.

4. Is staying in your current home a priority?

If you love your neighborhood and your home’s character, building out or up can be more cost-effective—and meaningful—than moving.

5. What’s your budget range?

Home additions come in many forms and price points. Partnering with Lenton Company’s design-build team early ensures realistic planning and creative solutions that fit your goals.

Is It Time to Expand?

Whether you need room for a growing family, upgraded functionality, or future-proofing your forever home, adding square footage can deliver lasting benefits—without leaving behind the place you love most.

Want expert guidance on what’s possible for your home? Schedule a personalized consultation with Lenton Company today—we’ll help you explore your options and envision what’s next. Give us a call at 661.273.9179 or visit our website.

Design Inspiration: Big Impact in a Small Space – The Home Bar - Lenton Company

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Big Impact in a Small Space – The Home Bar

You don’t need a massive footprint to make a home bar or beverage center a standout feature. With thoughtful design, even a modest space can enhance your entertaining style, elevate everyday living, and showcase your personality.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, cocktail connoisseur, or beer lover, here are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

Location Matters

If your bar is close to the kitchen, you may not need to include a sink—saving space and cost.

Refrigeration Options

Do you need a wine fridge or beverage cooler? Built-in refrigeration adds convenience and keeps things party-ready.

Display & Storage

Do you have specialty bottles, glassware, or bar tools you want to highlight? Floating shelves, undercabinet lighting, and mirrored backsplashes can add drama and elegance.

Personal Touches

Prefer beer on tap? Install a keg from your favorite local brewery or showcase your home brew setup.

Looking for inspiration? Explore these Lenton Company projects:

Ready to raise the bar at home? Let’s create a beverage space tailored to how you live and entertain. Contact Lenton Company to get started.