Since its construction in the 1950s, the View Ridge Kitchen stood frozen in time. An architecturally significant house originally constructed for a University of Washington professor by architecture students, renovating the original kitchen presented a 21st century challenge: the modest space had conflicting counter heights, and an oversized gas range and hood blocked views of the Cascade Mountains. The Johnston Architects (JA) team led a successful kitchen redesign by creating a cohesive and uncluttered space, a tricky task given the kitchen's visibility from living areas. A transformative design aspect was a concealed ‘secret’ kitchen wall, adeptly hiding storage and appliances behind panels meticulously matched to the original plywood species and finish, creating a kitchen that flows into the surrounding living spaces and sets a new standard for sophistication and practicality. This thoughtful integration exemplifies JA's commitment to preserving architectural harmony, blurring the line between old and new. Understanding their clients' needs through comprehensive consultations and upholding a deep respect for architectural heritage were pivotal factors that shaped the success of this remodel.