The House That Lars Built CliqStudios Kitchen | In With the Old

Interior designer and blogger, Brittany Jepsen, is the face of The House That Lars Built. Recently, she and her husband Paul were featured on In With the Old on Magnolia Network. They purchased a beautiful old Federalist-style home in Provo, Utah which was completely gutted and remodeled it.  

They originally fell in love with it because of its charm, history, and the fact that their ancestors also lived in Federalist-style homes. She commented, “historical things catch your soul more- we had to do it”. Once they purchased the home, Brittany and Paul realized how big of a kitchen project they had on their hands and reached out to CliqStudios. 

In previous years, Brittany worked with CliqStudios on her friend Mary’s kitchen for a one-room challenge. After she saw the high-quality kitchen cabinetry, construction, and finishes, she trusted that she was in “good hands”. Getting started, the Jepsen’s partnered with CliqStudios designer, Erin York. Brittany talked about how Erin was patient and provided lots of direction for their kitchen remodel. 

The Jepsens sent inspiration to Erin and told her about a few antique pieces they wanted to incorporate. Brittany felt strongly about honoring the Federalist style of the home and bringing in family history, while also introducing Scandinavian elements. They chose Shaker style Newport door in Silk from the Signature Plus line as the foundation color and style for the kitchen. It could also be said that Brittany is the queen of color, so this design was packed full of personality. 

Jepsen ancestors lived in Federal-style homes that were known to be a meeting place for travelers before long journeys. Especially the kitchen. So, Brittany wanted her home’s kitchen to replicate what they would have experienced with large farmhouse sinks, centralized worktables, and custom cabinetry. 

As the design was shaping up, there were a few areas Brittany paid special attention to. The range wall was going to be the focal point, so she worked with a good friend to find the perfect antique Swedish tile for the backsplash. She also wanted to pull in furniture-style components, so decorative legs were added to the base cabinet toe kicks, and her refrigerator was custom paneled and disguised to look like antique furniture. Lastly, the countertops needed to draw attention, so she chose a natural stone with strong veining. 

Brittany said, “I want to add in some old-world vibe with color and textures and things that we can make our own memories with. I don’t want a kitchen that’s just going to be pretty for no reason. I want it to be a workhorse too”. Close friends of the Jepsen’s brought a large wood worktable with floral carvings on it to create a center island while the kitchen was designed with roll-out trays, pull-out trash, drawers, lazy susans, and pantries. 

After the kitchen was completed, Brittany spoke about the process of remodeling. “The kitchen was absolutely the biggest headache, but so satisfying to see it done. We kind of crafted this home that feels alive, and I feel very lucky to be a part of it”.  

She continued, “There’s a glow to it. The brass of the oven lights up. That worktable is mind-boggling. It just flows so well all together”. She also spoke about the kitchen cabinets, “The touch feels smooth, and the cabinets and drawers close like butter. Honestly, happy customer here! Couldn’t ask for anything more! Plus, they have all the classic styles with great colors.” 

Overall, this kitchen remodel and home renovation was unique from the start. With so much history, style, and personality, there’s no wonder it turned out so beautifully. Brittany closed by saying, “I drew on my personal family history, those who inspire me, I drew on Paul’s history. I feel like it’s been this labor of love, but it’s more than that, it’s history come to life.” 

Are you ready to start your kitchen remodel? Connect with a CliqStudios designer today!