KBF Design Gallery wins first place for DeLand kitchen remodel

KBF Design Gallery took First Place in the Single Room/Living Space Remodeling category at the 2026 Central Florida Parade of Homes for a DeLand kitchen remodel centered on a new light-filled window. Judges called the window the project’s standout feature, highlighting how the redesign improved flow, natural light and the room’s connection to the rest of the home.

Why it matters: - The award puts a spotlight on how thoughtful remodeling can transform an existing home without changing its footprint. - The judges’ top pick shows that a single design move — in this case, a larger window — can reshape how a kitchen looks, feels and functions. - The win adds another year of recognition for KBF Design Gallery in the Central Florida Parade of Homes.

What happened: - KBF Design Gallery won First Place in the Single Room/Living Space Remodeling category of the 2026 Central Florida Parade of Homes. - The winning entry was “Where the Light Lands: A Deland Kitchen Remodel.” - The project remodeled a kitchen in DeLand, Florida. - The competition was presented by the Greater Orlando Builders Association. - The Parade of Homes is a cost-free, self-guided public tour that highlights Central Florida designers, remodelers and home builders.

The details: - The original kitchen had a range between two undersized rear windows and a sink tucked into the island. - KBF rebuilt the room around a new layout that moved the range to a continuous run of cabinetry. - The sink shifted to the back wall. - The island was repositioned to define work zones without crowding them. - The new plan widened circulation and made the kitchen feel more connected to the larger living space. - The standout feature was a single, generous window centered above the sink. - The judges named the window the project’s “Outstanding Feature.” - The judges said the window fills the kitchen with natural light and helps the cabinetry color read true. - The judges also said the window turns the view into part of the daily experience at the sink. - Behind the range, an arched opening frames the Wolf range like a proscenium. - A quartzite slab climbs the wall beneath a custom hood. - A brass pot filler is tucked into that composition. - The same quartzite appears as a sculpted apron beneath the farmhouse sink. - The sink is paired with a polished brass bridge faucet. - Open quartzite shelving includes a slim brass gallery rail. - The judges also praised the room’s details and welcoming atmosphere. - The redesign was intended to blend seamlessly with the rest of the client’s existing home.

Between the lines: - The project reflects a broader remodeling trend: using layout changes, light and material continuity to make older rooms feel architecturally integrated. - The window became more than a source of light; it became the organizing element that gave the room its visual center. - Adam Vellequette said the Parade is a way to show what is possible in existing homes through thoughtful remodeling. - Ashley Sheaffer said the award felt especially meaningful because of the strong design-to-build competition across Central Florida.

What's next: - KBF Design Gallery is continuing to position its remodeling work for recognition across Central Florida. - The firm says clients can schedule a complimentary consultation by calling 407-830-7703. - KBF Design Gallery also directs inquiries to its website. - The company’s showroom is at 1295 South Orlando Avenue in Maitland, Florida, and serves Orlando, Winter Park, DeLand and New Smyrna Beach. - The showroom is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The bottom line: - KBF Design Gallery’s winning DeLand kitchen shows how a remodel can turn a problem wall into the centerpiece of a home.