2026 Spring Remodelers Showcase • Open April 10–12 (Fri–Sun), 12–6 PM
Mid‑Century Modern Kitchen Remodel in Columbia Heights (Remodelers Showcase)
1960 Highland Lake rambler transformed for modern living—open plan, bigger light, and a structural solution that became the design centerpiece.
Project at a glance
This remodel started as an untouched 1960 time capsule. The goal was simple: open the kitchen and living room to the home’s Highland Lake views—without losing the warm Mid‑Century character.
Project highlights:
- Load‑bearing wall removed to connect kitchen + living room
- New 12‑foot picture window for lake views and natural light
- This project reflects the kind of kitchen remodeling we do throughout Minneapolis, St. Paul, and nearby suburbs, especially in older homes where layout, structure, and design all need to work together.
- Cherry cabinetry + white quartz countertops
- Reclaimed oak flooring matched to the original hardwoods
- Structural engineering: load transfers + new foundation footings
- Large island built for entertaining
Before and the design goal
Before, the kitchen was closed off and the best part of the house—its view—was barely part of daily life. We reworked the main level to create a clean, open flow between kitchen and living room, and made the view the focal point.
The Mid‑Century Modern material palette
To keep the remodel true to the home, we used a warm, classic material mix:
Cherry cabinetry to bring depth and warmth
White quartz for a crisp, durable work surface
Reclaimed oak floors selected to blend with the original hardwoods
A large island sized for cooking, gathering, and entertaining
Structural engineering that looks intentional
Removing a central load‑bearing wall is never “just demo.” This project required a post-and-beam structural solution, new load transfers, and new foundation footings—work we planned carefully so the home performs long-term. Instead of hiding the structure, we wrapped the post-and-beam system in custom cherry woodwork—turning a structural requirement into an architectural feature that defines the open plan. For homeowners considering a similar change, this is a good example of what goes into removing a load-bearing wall without letting the engineering overpower the design.
Results and how the space lives now
The result is a bright, high-functioning kitchen that finally connects to the Highland Lake view. The new window floods the space with light, the island anchors entertaining, and the finished details feel like they belong in a 1960 home—just updated for how people live now. If you are comparing ideas for your own remodel, you can also browse our gallery for more kitchen and bath projects. The result is a high-functioning home perfect for entertaining, complete with a large island and a new patio featuring a hot tub. If you are planning a remodel in the Twin Cities, request a visit to talk through your home, goals, budget, and timeline.
Visit this Remodelers Showcase home
Open April 10–12, 2026 (Friday–Sunday), 12–6 PM.
Address/directions/tickets can change—use the official listing for the latest
details.
About Prima (local, design-build, older homes)
Prima Construction is based in Columbia Heights and serves homeowners across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and close-in suburbs—especially older homes where
structure, codes, and permitting matter. If you’re planning a high-end kitchen or bath remodel and want a team that can handle both design and complex build details, request a visit and we’ll talk through your space, goals, and constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this project part of the 2026 Spring Remodelers Showcase?
Yes. This Mid‑Century Modern kitchen remodel is open April 10–12, 2026 (Friday–Sunday), 12–6 PM as part of the Spring Remodelers Showcase. For the most current visiting details, use the official listing.
Do you remodel in Columbia Heights and Northeast Minneapolis area?
Prima Construction is based in Columbia Heights and regularly works across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and close-in suburbs, typically within a short drive radius so we can manage projects daily.
Can you remove a load-bearing wall to create an open plan?
We frequently handle structural kitchen remodels, including removing load-bearing walls with engineered headers/beams, posts, and proper load transfers—plus the permitting and inspection coordination that comes with it.
Do you handle structural engineering and permits?
We coordinate the structural planning, permitting, scheduling, and inspection workflow required for complex remodels in older homes.
What cabinets, countertops, and floors are featured in this kitchen?
This project uses cherry cabinetry, white quartz countertops, and reclaimed oak flooring selected to match the home’s original hardwoods.
Is Prima a design-build remodeler?
Yes. Our process covers vision, design, and build so layout decisions and construction reality stay aligned.
What types of projects do you focus on?
High-end kitchen and bath remodeling, plus other major remodeling work, with specific strength in older Twin Cities homes where structural and permitting details matter.
How do we start if we want something similar?
Start with a request-a-visit consult. We’ll talk about your goals, the house constraints, and what scope makes sense before moving into deeper design.
Planning a kitchen remodel with real structural work?
If your project involves opening walls, changing layouts, or upgrading an older home, we’ll help you plan it cleanly—design, structure, permits, and
execution.