The Short Answer
This contemporary family home transformation shows how one detailed material choice can elevate a builder-grade kitchen. Designer Sandi Kaneko used Stikwood to add warmth and personality to the kitchen island, helping the main living space feel more layered, inviting, and custom.
Designed by Sandi Kaneko Interiors
Creating a home that feels warm, inviting, and full of personality often comes down to the details—and for interior designer Sandi Kaneko, one simple upgrade completely transformed the heart of this contemporary family home.
What started as a builder-basic kitchen became a layered, elevated space filled with warmth, texture, and character thanks to the addition of Stikwood.
Transforming a Builder-Grade Kitchen Island
The main goal of the project was to bring warmth and visual interest into a large kitchen that felt unfinished despite its size.
The existing kitchen island lacked character, and the backsplash featured brown and gold undertones that didn’t connect with the rest of the home’s design. To create a more cohesive look, Sandi installed Stikwood on the island and updated the hardware with warm brass finishes.
The result was an instant transformation.
The natural wood tones added richness and texture, while the brass accents tied everything together beautifully—enhancing the existing backsplash instead of competing with it.
A Warm and Inviting Contemporary Space
Before the renovation, the room felt like a blank white shell with minimal depth or personality. After incorporating Stikwood, the space took on an entirely new atmosphere.
The finished home feels warm, modern, and uniquely personal. The addition of wood texture helped soften the clean contemporary lines while creating a more welcoming environment for everyday family life.
By layering natural materials and warm metallic finishes, the space now feels curated, balanced, and full of visual interest.
The Power of an Easy Transformation
One of the most rewarding parts of the project for Sandi was seeing how dramatically the room changed with such a simple installation process.
Stikwood made it possible to completely transform the look and feel of the kitchen without a major renovation. The ease of installation allowed the project to come together quickly while still delivering a high-end, custom look.
It’s proof that even small design changes can make a major impact when the right materials are used.
About Sandi Kaneko
Creativity has always been a central part of Sandi Kaneko’s life. After studying at Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and working in costume and styling in Los Angeles, she eventually launched a business designing modern pet accessories alongside her husband.
Years later, after designing trade show booths, renovating homes, and raising a family, Sandi realized her true passion was interior design. That passion ultimately led to the creation of her interior design business, where she continues to create warm, thoughtful spaces that feel both elevated and livable.
Her own home serves as an ongoing creative lab where she experiments with design ideas, materials, and styling concepts—constantly evolving each space with fresh inspiration.
