Stay Young--Remodel

The Farrells’ old kitchen. (GLENN KOENIG / Los Angeles Times)

Sept. 28, 2001 1:11 PM PT

As part of her secret for staying vibrant and healthy, a 79-year-old Corona del Mar condo owner decided to add a second bedroom and build a new kitchen.

John Farrell, center, watches workers place the slab on island. (GLENN KOENIG / Los Angeles Times)

The new kitchen in the Farrells’ Corona del Mar home is full of light. (GLENN KOENIG / Los Angeles Times)

Decorative tiles highlight the stove area. (GLENN KOENIG / Los Angeles Times)

Open to the sun room and the living room, the new kitchen brightens the house. (KEVIN P. CASEY / Los Angeles Times)

John and Edie Farrell enjoy the fruits of Edie’s, and son Rob Farrell’s, labors. (GLENN KOENIG / Los Angeles Times)