‘Very simple’: Mum-of-two creates kitchen bar for £19 using genius space-saving hack

Victoria McIntyre, a 33-year-old neurological nurse and mother of two from Perthshire, embarked on a DIY project during lockdown to revitalize her kitchen. Motivated to brighten the space affordably, she created a brick-effect feature wall for merely £12, utilizing Frogtape and paint tester pots. The family had previously transformed three bathrooms, and for the kitchen, they aimed for a unique brick design rather than the more common geometric patterns often achieved with Frogtape. This choice was also influenced by their existing brick tile splashback, and a desire for an easily changeable and less expensive option than wallpaper. Initially, the kitchen's feature wall was a deep grey, necessitating several coats of white as a base. The application of Frogtape proved to be the most intricate and time-consuming part of the project. Despite the house being a new build, the walls were slightly uneven, meaning Victoria could not simply apply horizontal strips. Instead, each horizontal line had to be meticulously measured and leveled, a process crucial for avoiding a wavy appearance in the final brick pattern. The vertical lines were then added using a spare wall tile as a guide. This precise taping process alone took six hours. Once the intricate stencil was created with Frogtape, the actual painting was surprisingly quick, taking only about ten minutes. Victoria used a deep fluffy roller and drizzled grey paint into a tray, ensuring minimal paint absorption on the roller. She then firmly rolled it back and forth across the entire wall. For areas inaccessible to the roller, such as edges, a natural sea sponge was employed to fill the gaps. The objective was to apply as little paint as possible, aiming for a porous effect that would mimic the texture of natural brick. The cost of the entire transformation amounted to just £12, spent on two rolls of Frogtape and a small tester pot of deep grey paint, both sourced online from a local Crown Paint store during lockdown. The family already had white paint at home, further reducing expenses. The outcome was a lighter, brighter kitchen with a unique industrial flair. Victoria and her husband were initially apprehensive about the result, fearing a potential need to repaint the entire wall solid grey if the brick effect failed. However, they were delighted with the finished look, which not only brightened their kitchen but also created the illusion of a larger space. The project has received positive feedback from visitors, validating the effort and innovative approach. This demonstrates how budget-friendly materials and creative DIY techniques can achieve significant home transformations without incurring substantial costs. The success of this project also highlights the versatility of Frogtape for various design patterns beyond typical geometric styles, offering an accessible route to personalized home decor. #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #DIYProjects #ThriftyLiving #FeatureWall #BrickEffect #Frogtape #PaintTransformation #BudgetHomeImprovement

Under-cabinet lighting significantly enhances kitchen functionality by illuminating countertops for food preparation, brightening small appliance storage areas, and adding ambiance. The article presents a comprehensive review of eight top-rated under-cabinet lighting options, chosen after 43 hours of rigorous hands-on testing of 14 different models. These selections represent a diverse range of lumens, volts, and features, catering to various needs from energy efficiency to smart-home integration. The Litever 6-Pack Under-Cabinet Light Bar Kit is highlighted as the best overall, praised for its easy installation, high quality, and value. It offers 2000 lumens, features both AC adapter and hardwired power options, and is fully dimmable. The Wobane Under-Cabinet Lighting Kit is recognized for its affordability and ease of installation, providing 1100 lumens of warm white light through flexible LED strips. The BLS LED Motion Sensor Under-Cabinet Lighting stands out for its adjustability, with a body that can be angled up to 180 degrees and a motion sensor with two sensitivity modes, though its 180 lumens of white light can be harsh for ambiance. For kitchens, the LepoTec Wireless Motion Sensor Cabinet Lights are recommended due to their auto-induction feature, which prevents unnecessary activation in bright conditions, and their versatile magnetic backing for easy portability and recharging. For those seeking smart features, the Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus Starter Kit, while requiring a more complex setup, offers up to 1700 lumens and extensive customization options, including color configurations and integration with smart-home systems. The JUSJUBR LED Under-Cabinet Plug-In Light is a thin, lightweight, and energy-efficient plug-in option that boasts a memory function for brightness settings. The RXWLKJ Rechargeable Motion Sensor Under-Cabinet Light, though less bright at 100 lumens, offers consistent motion sensing and easy magnetic removal for recharging, making it suitable for pantries or sheds. Finally, the Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Puck Light is a versatile battery-powered option that provides magnetic installation, three light color temperatures (warm, neutral, cool), dimmability, and timer settings. The MCGOR LED Motion Sensor Under-Cabinet Light is also praised for its sleek design, bright output, and reliable motion sensing, with easy magnetic installation. The selection process involved evaluating ease of installation, light output, dimmability, and the presence of glare or buzzing sounds. Expert Thom Cloppert, with over 25 years in remodeling, emphasizes the benefits of under-cabinet lighting, noting its indirect, non-glaring illumination, energy efficiency, and ambiance-creating capabilities. The article details various types of lighting (LED, fluorescent, halogen, xenon), their voltage options (line-voltage, low-voltage, battery), and physical styles (strip, puck, bar lights), discussing their respective energy efficiency, heat output, and installation complexities. LED lighting is identified as the most energy-efficient and popular choice, offering millions of colors and low heat output, despite being the priciest. The importance of dimmers for energy saving and mood setting is also highlighted, along with installation considerations, ranging from DIY-friendly battery and plug-in options to line-voltage systems that may require a professional electrician. Under-cabinet lighting is presented as a valuable home improvement, reducing energy bills, enhancing task visibility, accentuating design elements like backsplashes, and visually enlarging rooms by reducing shadows. Common questions regarding the number of lights needed, optimal placement, required lumens for task areas, overall value, and safety of leaving LED strip lights on overnight are also addressed, reinforcing the practical benefits and considerations for implementing this lighting solution in various home spaces. #UnderCabinetLighting #KitchenLighting #LEDLighting #HomeImprovement #LightingReviews #SmartHomeLighting #DIYLighting #EnergyEfficiency

This blog post details how professional organizer Shira Gill helped photographer and freelance content producer Zoe Ching overhaul her kitchen pantry and bathroom vanity drawer using affordable dividers. Ching, despite a recent renovation of her Portland, Oregon, Craftsman bungalow in 2018, found herself struggling with excessive clutter and inefficient storage, with items overflowing into her garage. The pantry organization began with emptying all contents onto the kitchen island. Expired items were discarded, leaving only regularly used goods like Asian sauces and Fly by Jing tasting packs. Gill then applied a "supermarket manager" approach, merchandising the space by placing opened snacks in front and surplus items behind them for easy rotation. Tall oils and sauces were neatly arranged on bamboo lazy Susans, while most other items were placed in deep dividers, many costing as little as $5 from the Container Store. Ching also repurposed old glass jars for dried fruit. This systematic approach transformed the pantry, making cooking and spending time in the kitchen a more pleasant experience. Following the pantry makeover, Gill and Ching addressed the bathroom vanity drawer, a persistent pain point for Ching due to difficulty locating daily-use items. Instead of sorting by product category, they focused on separating frequently used items such as deodorant, lip gloss, and mascara from back-stock products. These daily essentials were then dedicated to a single top drawer in the vanity. During this process, Ching discarded expired products and donated duplicates to friends, further streamlining her collection. An additional "treat-yourself" item, a face mask, was included in the drawer to encourage regular use. To organize the vanity drawer, they utilized leftover drawer dividers from the kitchen project. These long containers proved effective in preventing tubes of cream and sharp tweezers from rolling around, maintaining order within the drawer. Ching expressed that this new system served as a catalyst, inspiring her to organize the rest of her bathroom and significantly improving her daily routine, making it more relaxed. The article highlights the effectiveness of simple, affordable organizational tools and a systematic approach in transforming cluttered spaces into functional and enjoyable areas. #HomeOrganization #PantryOrganization #BathroomVanity #StorageSolutions #ProfessionalOrganizer #SmallSpaceLiving #DIYHome #ContainerStore #AffordableDecor

The article details how Nikki Dixon, a mother of three and caregiver from Cardiff, successfully transformed a £20 baby changing unit into a functional and stylish kitchen island. Nikki's motivation stemmed from her need for additional worktop space in her compact kitchen and the prohibitive costs of pre-made island units, which she found to be hundreds of pounds or too large for her space. She discovered a suitable baby changing unit for sale on Facebook Marketplace for £20 and collected it herself to avoid delivery fees, saving on overall costs. Nikki then purchased a pack of four swivel wheels from The Range for £6.99 to make the island mobile. To ensure the new island blended seamlessly with her existing kitchen decor, she re-covered the top with Ribbeck Oak Fablon, a material she had previously used for her kitchen worktops. This Fablon was purchased from B&M for £6, providing a cost-effective solution for a matching aesthetic. The remaining parts of the unit were painted with leftover brilliant white furniture paint, and the handles were replaced to harmonize with her kitchen cupboards. The entire upcycling project cost Nikki a total of £32.99 and was completed in just two hours. This budget-friendly and quick transformation resulted in a finished product that Nikki loved and which saved her a significant amount of money compared to purchasing a new kitchen island. The success of her project has inspired others in the money-saving Facebook group 'DIY On A Budget UK' to attempt similar DIY transformations. The article includes before and after photographs to showcase Nikki's ingenuity and the successful outcome of her creative endeavor, highlighting how resourceful DIY can lead to practical and aesthetically pleasing home improvements without a large financial outlay. #DIYHomeImprovement #KitchenIsland #UpcyclingProject #BudgetDecor #HomeMakeover #CreativeSolutions #NikkiDixon #FacebookMarketplace

Entertaining guests can be a costly endeavor, from stocking the kitchen with food and drinks to creating a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's possible to become an excellent host without overspending. One key element in modern home entertaining is the bar cart, which has gained popularity due to its versatility and space-saving design. Bar carts are ideal for both renters and homeowners, as they can be easily moved and stored when not in use, offering a flexible solution for serving drinks. While many stylish bar carts are available, not all are budget-friendly. Setting up a home bar can quickly become expensive, considering the need for mixologist-approved essentials, stylish supplies, and a variety of beverages like wine, beer, and spirits. To help manage costs, this article highlights bar carts priced under $100, allowing for savings that can be allocated to stocking the cart with favorite items. Affordable retailers such as Target, Amazon, and Wayfair offer a diverse range of bar carts for under $100. These options cater to various home decor styles, including vintage-inspired, modern, and minimalist designs. Whether one prefers rustic wood, industrial metal, or glamorous gold finishes, there is a budget-friendly bar cart to suit individual tastes and existing decor. For those who don't maintain a large alcohol collection but still require storage solutions, smaller, more discreet bar carts are available. These compact carts can fit comfortably in a quiet corner of a living room, dining area, or kitchen, without occupying excessive space. They can even double as a stylish side table when not in use for beverages, providing functional decor for any home. The article showcases ten affordable bar carts that enable hosts to entertain guests professionally, regardless of their home's aesthetic or current alcohol inventory. These selections demonstrate that high-quality, stylish entertaining solutions do not require a significant financial investment, with options costing less than a bottle of premium champagne. #BarCart #HomeDecor #Entertaining #AffordableHomeGoods #HostessTips #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceSolutions #BudgetFriendly

The author shares her experience with glass-fronted kitchen cabinets, initially chosen for their blend of design and practicality. However, the cabinets became a source of frustration as they required constant, meticulous arrangement of kitchenware to avoid appearing messy and cluttered. The article then introduces a $7.99 Amazon hack involving reeded glass privacy film as a solution to this problem. The peel-and-stick film offers an affordable way to upgrade standard glass, imparting a trendy reeded, textured look. This aesthetic not only enhances the visual appeal of the cabinets but also provides privacy, effectively concealing any disarray within. The installation process is described as straightforward, requiring no special tools or glue, and utilizing static cling technology for easy application, repositioning, and removal without leaving residue. The author emphasizes that this simple DIY project significantly improved the kitchen's appearance without incurring significant expense or requiring frequent decluttering efforts. Beyond kitchen cabinets, the versatility of the reeded glass privacy film is highlighted, suggesting its application in various areas of the home. Examples include adding privacy to bathroom windows or shower screens, upcycling old dressers, or detailing glass-fronted closets. The film's ability to add both form and function to different spaces is underscored. To further validate the hack's appeal, the article references interior designer Marie Flanigan, who advocates for obscure glass with texture (like seeded or fluted glass) to provide privacy and add visual interest, sparkle, and depth in spaces like bathrooms or storage cabinets. While designers typically recommend custom-made fluted or reeded glass, the Amazon film is presented as an accessible and temporary alternative that delivers a similar designer-inspired aesthetic on a budget. The article also provides additional product recommendations for similar privacy films available on Amazon, catering to different preferences in reeded patterns and privacy levels. These include a Frosted Reeded Glass Cling Window Privacy Film with larger 'reeds' and high privacy/UV blocking, a Window Privacy Film Frosted Glass Static Cling featuring a lattice vinyl design for added pattern, and a highly-rated rabbitgoo Frosted Glass Window Privacy Film with a subtly striped look resembling built-in blinds. These options offer variations in style and functionality, allowing readers to choose the best fit for their needs. Ultimately, the reeded glass privacy film is positioned as a smart, affordable, and renter-friendly upgrade for those seeking to enhance their home décor while maintaining practicality. #AmazonHack #KitchenDesign #GlassCabinets #HomeDecor #DIYHomeImprovement #RenterFriendly #InteriorStyling #PrivacyFilm

Sharon Hornsby, an interior stylist and blogger, successfully renovated her kitchen in West Sussex, England, transforming it into a space that appears to have vintage charm, despite being less than a year old. The project, part of the 'Renovator's Notebook' series, involved a budget of $45,000 and a two-month timeline, focusing on making a new kitchen seamlessly blend into her 1920s home. The renovation involved converting a tiny old kitchen into an office/utility room and building a new kitchen where an outdated sitting area once stood, prioritizing the sunniest spot in the house for the new culinary space. A key strategy in achieving the old-world aesthetic was a thoughtful mix of finishes. Nearly half of the budget was allocated to mismatched materials to avoid a sterile, brand-new feel. Engineered oak flooring with a rich chocolatey stain was chosen to mimic the appearance of well-trodden, original flooring. The kitchen incorporated both butcher block and quartz countertops with a subtle swirl. By pairing a slim contemporary slab with a thicker one for the island, Hornsby created the illusion of a kitchen that had undergone multiple renovations over time, adding to its perceived history. To save on costs and enhance the lived-in look, everyday cookware was strategically used as decor. Hornsby and her husband implemented a DIY project involving beadboard on the main wall, painted with Farrow & Ball’s Purbeck Stone, to echo the ribbing of the glass-front cabinets. A pot rack was fashioned from brass electrical pipe and silver S-shaped hooks, costing only $200. This allowed for the display of vintage barware, cutting boards, and copper pots, instantly contributing to the kitchen's established feel. A significant splurge was the installation of an extra-large 10-foot kitchen island, costing $5,000. This was designed to be a central gathering point for the family, accommodating three children for meals and providing company during cooking. To integrate the island with the desired vintage aesthetic, it was painted with Farrow & Ball’s Hay, a creamy yellow, and paired with ’30s-style milk glass pendant lights, distinguishing it from the greige cabinets and mid-century lighting. Another cost-saving measure involved working with existing elements and incorporating vintage finds. A bulky limestone fireplace was replaced with a slim $200 vintage mantel found on eBay, creating space for a pantry and a wider walkway. A unique technique was applied to the surrounding wall: after plastering over the old fireplace, sections of the new wall were chipped away to reveal the original stone beneath. This design choice instantly gave the kitchen an aged appearance, contributing to the overall vintage charm within a two-month renovation period. The project demonstrates how strategic design choices, a mix of splurges and saves, and creative DIYs can achieve a cohesive, historically resonant aesthetic in a modern renovation. #KitchenRenovation #CottagecoreDesign #DIYHomeDecor #VintageStyle #InteriorStyling #BudgetRenovation #BeforeAndAfter #HomeRemodel

Working from home has become increasingly common, and creating a designated workspace is crucial for productivity, even if that space is limited. This article highlights an innovative and practical solution for establishing a distinct home office, particularly for those with small living areas. The core idea, shared by designer Justina Blakeney, involves transforming an upholstered room divider into a functional pinboard and decorative element for a home office setup. The article explains that a dedicated home office, regardless of its size, can significantly boost productivity by minimizing distractions often found in shared living spaces like bedrooms or kitchen tables. A literal divide can effectively create this designated area. Blakeney's suggestion of repurposing an upholstered screen is presented as a 'genius idea' because it serves a dual purpose: it adds a vibrant pop of color and pattern to the workspace and simultaneously functions as an inspiration board. This dual functionality is particularly appealing for creative individuals or anyone who benefits from visual aids in their work. Blakeney's personal choice for this DIY project features a leafy, 'Jungalow-approved' print from The Inside’s collection, which is a collaboration with Iris Apfel’s Old World Weavers design house. This collaboration offers a variety of patterns, allowing individuals to choose a print that suits their aesthetic preferences. The upholstered screen can then be used to pin up mood boards, to-do lists, or other work-related materials, making the workspace both organized and visually stimulating. Furthermore, the article points out the versatility of an upholstered room divider. If one already possesses such an item, it can be temporarily relocated to a makeshift office. This not only delineates a clear workspace but also offers flexibility. Once the need for a dedicated home office diminishes, the room divider can be returned to its original purpose, whether that's breaking up a studio apartment layout or acting as a decorative headboard. This adaptability makes the solution cost-effective and sustainable, as it leverages existing furniture rather than requiring new purchases. In essence, the article advocates for a creative and flexible approach to home office design, particularly for small spaces. By transforming a decorative item like an upholstered screen into a multi-functional pinboard and room divider, individuals can create a visually appealing and productive work environment without undertaking extensive renovations or purchasing specialized office furniture. This DIY approach offers a simple yet effective way to define a workspace, add personal style, and support daily tasks. #HomeOffice #DIYProject #SmallSpaceSolutions #InteriorDesign #ProductivityHacks #JustinaBlakeney #RoomDivider #HomeDecor #WorkFromHome

A Kmart shopper has shared an innovative adaptation of a popular kitchen storage hack, utilizing a different Kmart product to create a stylish and functional shelving unit. The original hack, which involved transforming $15 three-tier bathroom caddies into a space-saving kitchen bench organizer, gained significant traction among Kmart enthusiasts. This new variation employs a $15 chrome corner caddy, also from Kmart's bathroom section, offering an alternative aesthetic that appeals to those whose kitchens do not suit the original black caddy. The shopper posted images of her modified hack in the 'Kmart Home Decor & Hacks Australia' Facebook group, where it was met with positive feedback. Instead of the conventional three-tier floor caddy, she opted for the chrome corner caddy, which features three sections suitable for inserting shelves. For the shelves themselves, she ingeniously repurposed placemats from the craft section at Bunnings, covering them with white contact paper to match her kitchen decor. The entire structure is secured with zippy ties, super glue, and clear tape, ensuring the shelves are aligned and stable. This fresh take on the hack was widely appreciated within the online community, with many users expressing a preference for the chrome finish over the original black. Suggestions for further enhancements, such as incorporating a cord hider from Amazon, were also shared. The original concept of converting shower caddies into kitchen shelving units is attributed to New Zealander Lainee Hermsen. Hermsen's initial motivation stemmed from a desire for additional kitchen bench storage without committing to permanent fixtures. She explored building a custom unit but found the cost prohibitive, estimated at around $200. Her discovery of the versatile Kmart caddies provided a cost-effective solution, allowing her to construct a removable and portable shelving unit using two three-tier floor caddies and a wooden plank. Hermsen noted that the hack significantly improved the functionality of her kitchen, offering customizable shelf heights and lengths, and providing convenient storage for items like fruit or teas. She emphasized the practical yet aesthetically pleasing nature of her creation. The success of Hermsen's original hack has inspired numerous Kmart shoppers to replicate and adapt the idea, extending its application to various areas of the home, including home offices for desk storage. #KmartHack #KitchenStorage #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetFriendly #HomeOrganization #CreativeSolutions #ShopperInnovation #InteriorDesign

This article details a popular and cost-effective kitchen storage hack utilizing readily available items from Kmart and Bunnings. The hack addresses the common issue of needing additional storage space in the kitchen, particularly for individuals who are unable or unwilling to drill into their walls. It highlights a solution that is both practical and easy to implement. The core of the storage solution involves using two Kmart 3 Tier Floor Caddies, each priced at $15, and a piece of premium pine wood sourced from Bunnings. The pine wood, specifically recommended to be 235mm x 19mm thickness, can be cut to size for free at Bunnings, adding to the convenience and affordability of the project. This combination creates a stable and versatile shelving unit. The process for assembling this storage solution is straightforward. First, the two Kmart floor caddies are positioned in the desired location for the shelf. Subsequently, the pre-cut piece of wood is balanced across the top of the caddies, instantly forming an additional storage surface. This method eliminates the need for any drilling or permanent fixtures, making it ideal for renters or those who prefer flexible home organization. The popularity of this hack originated within the "Kmart Hacks and Decor" Facebook group, where DIY enthusiasts share creative ways to repurpose Kmart products. The article cites Veronica, one such DIYer, who successfully implemented the hack due to gas lines behind her kitchen wall preventing traditional shelving installation. Her shared experience and positive feedback underscore the hack's utility and appeal. Community reactions within the Facebook group have been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for the idea. Commenters praise the hack for its simplicity, affordability, and the fact that it requires no drilling. The ability to easily remove and reposition the shelves is also a significant advantage, offering flexibility in kitchen layout and design. The hack is also seen as a viable option for creating additional desk shelving, further demonstrating its versatility. In addition to the practical instructions, the article also suggests related DIY storage projects, such as weather-proof outdoor storage cabinets and other DIY storage solutions for small spaces. This broadens the scope of accessible and budget-friendly home organization ideas for readers. #Kmart #KitchenStorage #StorageHack #DIYHome #BudgetDecor #HomeOrganization #PracticalLiving #NoDrillSolutions

This article details a kitchen makeover project undertaken by Gemma Shaw, a homeowner from Worcestershire, who transformed her white gloss kitchen into a dark, on-trend space using chalk paint for less than £50. Faced with an estimated cost of £10,000 for a professional kitchen renovation, Gemma opted for a DIY approach to align her kitchen with her preference for darker interiors, specifically black and dark green shades. Her previous white kitchen was a constant source of frustration due to its tendency to show every mark, leading to frequent cleaning of its 17 cupboards and drawers. The transformation began with Gemma researching chalk paint options and learning about the Frenchic Al Fresco range, which is suitable for gloss cabinets. She chose Frenchic Furniture Paint in 'Blackjack,' a jet black shade, along with a blending brush and sugar soap for preparation. The decision for a dark color was also influenced by the kitchen's ample natural light from skylights and large bi-fold doors, ensuring the space would not feel dreary. The process involved several steps. First, Gemma lightly sanded all cupboard doors and drawers. She then removed them from their hinges and thoroughly cleaned them with sugar soap. Applying the paint in very thin layers using a blending brush was crucial, as advised in online forums, to ensure quick drying, prevent drips, and build a durable coating. Her white gloss cabinets required five coats of paint to achieve the desired finish. The most challenging aspect of the painting process was working around the oven hood, which she could not remove and had to paint around. Beyond the paint, Gemma further enhanced the kitchen's new aesthetic by adding brushed gold accessories to complement the warm feel of the room. These included new cabinet handles and a kitchen tap purchased from Amazon, as well as a black kettle, toaster, and tea/coffee jars from Asda. The total cost for the paint and all new accessories amounted to approximately £130, a significant saving compared to the estimated cost of a new kitchen. The entire project was completed over eight evenings, totaling about 24 hours of work. Gemma expressed great satisfaction with the improved appearance of her kitchen, encouraging others contemplating similar budget-friendly makeovers to proceed, emphasizing that the main requirements are time and patience. The article highlights how a strategic and cost-effective DIY renovation can dramatically update a kitchen's style and functionality, achieving a designer look without the hefty price tag. #KitchenRenovation #BudgetMakeover #ChalkPaint #DIYHomeDecor #KitchenCabinets #HomeImprovement #FrenchicPaint #InteriorDesign #CostSaving

Designer Gina Gutierrez faced the challenge of transforming a 150-square-foot, dark, and outdated kitchen in a Bay Area home. The main obstacle was a supporting wall dividing the kitchen and living room, which significantly limited design options. After initially exploring various partially open floor plans, including one with a peninsula, Gutierrez received approval from the homeowner, Lisa, to expand the budget slightly. This pivotal decision allowed them to consult a structural engineer, install a beam, and remove the wall entirely, thereby creating a fully open-concept living space. Opening up the kitchen dramatically improved the natural light, addressing the issue of the space being quite dark, exacerbated by existing linoleum floors. With the wall removed, the original L-shape layout was discarded in favor of a new arrangement featuring a small island capable of seating three people. Gutierrez focused on optimizing the "cooking triangle"—the relationship between the sink, refrigerator, and cooktop—to ensure maximum workflow efficiency within the new design. The renovation, completed in nine weeks, successfully incorporated the homeowner's desire for new appliances, extensive storage solutions, and elegant quartz countertops, all while providing uninterrupted views. A significant cost-saving measure involved the cabinetry. After receiving custom cabinet quotes upwards of $17,000, Gutierrez opted for IKEA cabinet frames paired with Semihandmade doors, reducing the cost to approximately $8,000. This strategic choice was crucial for staying within budget, especially given the increased expenditure for structural work. Gutierrez emphasized the importance of hiring an expert, like 365 Furniture Assembly, for installing IKEA cabinetry to ensure a professional finish. The newly incorporated island, measuring five feet by three feet, was designed to be functional yet space-conscious. Gutierrez prioritized ample walking room around the island, ensuring at least 36 inches on each side, and even more (45 inches) between the range and the counter, to facilitate ease of movement and prevent a cramped feel. For the backsplash, Gutierrez selected a glossy, earthy white subway tile from Bedrosian, costing only $7 per square foot. To further optimize the budget, the tile was installed only up to the open shelves flanking the stove, creating a stylish yet economical feature. Appliance selection also demonstrated a balance between splurging and saving. While a basic KitchenAid refrigerator and a Bosch dishwasher (now cleverly concealed behind a cabinet panel) were chosen, the homeowner's "dream item"—a Wolf range—was prioritized. The stainless steel finish of the range was considered a significant upgrade in itself, with ideas for an oak wood slab over the hood being ultimately foregone to manage costs. Finally, meticulous attention was paid to organization from the outset of the planning phase. Gutierrez incorporated seamless storage solutions, such as hidden garbage and recycling bins within the island, drawers within drawers, and dedicated nooks for baking sheets and cutting boards. This ensured that every kitchen tool had a designated home, contributing to a tidy and highly functional space. The careful planning and strategic decisions ultimately resulted in a transformed kitchen that met all the homeowner's needs and aesthetic preferences, while also delivering substantial cost savings through informed choices, particularly in cabinetry and appliance selection. #KitchenRenovation #BudgetDesign #OpenConcept #IKEAHacks #StructuralChanges #SmallKitchenDesign #ApplianceSelection #StorageSolutions #HomeTransformation

Sapna Aggarwal and her husband, Karan, founders of Bungalowe, a design-slash-development studio, embarked on a renovation project for a 1,000-square-foot Spanish-style house in Los Angeles’s Highland Park neighborhood. Sapna had long admired Spanish-style architecture, and this particular property presented an opportunity to realize her design vision. Given the small footprint of the home, Karan, who specializes in floor planning, focused on reconfiguring the layout to accommodate an additional bedroom, an office, and two and a half bathrooms. This meant the kitchen would need to remain compact, posing a challenge for maximizing storage and functionality within a limited area. Traditionally, a compact kitchen might lead designers to install numerous tall upper cabinets to compensate for a lack of space. However, Sapna envisioned a breezier, more colorful kitchen, drawing inspiration from a recent trip to Oaxaca, Mexico, which influenced her choice of Zia tile. To achieve this aesthetic while still addressing the need for storage and counter space, she opted for a less intrusive yet highly functional solution: a slim white oak board installation. This design choice aimed to avoid the bulkiness of excessive cabinetry while maintaining an open and airy feel. The innovative solution involved an 11-foot-long, slim white oak board supported by basic hardware store brackets. This board overlaps a tiled peninsula and extends to the far wall. A second piece of wood connects to it, stretching an additional 4 feet to the refrigerator's edge, forming an L-shaped surface. This single, simple addition serves a triple purpose: it acts as extra countertop space for food preparation, provides display shelving for decorative items or frequently used kitchenware, and offers 36-inch-high seating for barstools. According to Sapna, this L-shaped surface was a critical design element that contributed significantly to making the kitchen feel spacious and open, despite its small size. An additional benefit of this design approach was that it allowed the renovation to proceed without altering the height of the existing windows. Changing the windows would have been a complex undertaking, especially since the property is located within a historic preservation zone, which imposes strict regulations on structural modifications. The windows were considered perfectly placed, and the only adjustment made was flipping their hinges so they would open outward, allowing for fresh air. This renovation project successfully transformed a compact kitchen by implementing a creative and minimalist solution to address storage and counter space limitations. The L-shaped white oak board not only maximized functionality but also preserved the aesthetic vision and avoided potential regulatory hurdles associated with modifying existing structural elements like windows in a historic area. The design demonstrates how thoughtful additions can enhance both the utility and the perception of space in a small home. #kitchenRenovation #smallSpaces #homeDesign #storageSolutions #interiorDesign #spaceSaving #spanishStyle #compactKitchen #beforeAndAfter

The article discusses a creative and cost-effective home decor solution implemented by Brittney Morgan and her wife, Sara, in their eclectic Nashville apartment. Faced with an open-concept living space, a design popular for its airy feel and sense of community but less favored by some during the COVID-19 pandemic for its lack of defined areas, the couple sought a way to create a functional division without making permanent alterations to their rental unit. Their primary goal was to establish a distinct entryway, preventing the front door from opening directly into the main living area and providing a designated spot for essentials like keys and shoes. This division also aimed to mitigate the perceived darkness in the main living space by allowing natural light to filter through, addressing a concern about limited window access. To achieve this, Brittney and Sara utilized IKEA’s versatile KALLAX shelving system, a well-known and classic product from the brand. The strategic placement of this unit served as an effective room divider, transforming the open layout into more compartmentalized zones. The KALLAX system, priced at under $200, offered not only a spatial separation but also significant functional benefits. The couple enhanced its utility by incorporating cabinet doors and baskets into some of the shelves, cleverly concealing frequently used items. One section was even designated as a 'junk drawer,' highlighting the practical and discreet storage capabilities of their hack. The upper rows of the KALLAX unit were intentionally left open, allowing natural light to penetrate further into the apartment and providing display space for decorative objects and plants, adding a touch of greenery and personal style to the room. The KALLAX unit's dual purpose—as a room divider and a storage solution—was a key aspect of its success. It effectively carved out a vestibule, offering a transitional area that allows for a mental and physical decompression upon entering the home. This space provides an opportunity for residents to shed the day's external layers before fully engaging with their personal living environment. The cleverness of this design choice has garnered considerable attention, with visitors frequently inquiring about the feature and expressing surprise upon learning that it is an IKEA product, underscoring the ingenuity of the customization. The article highlights this specific IKEA hack as an example of ingenious design, suggesting that Brittney and Sara’s home features other notable design elements. This approach caters to renters who often face limitations on structural modifications and seek adaptable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing solutions to optimize their living spaces. The narrative underscores the potential of readily available, budget-friendly furniture to solve common home design challenges, particularly in creating defined areas within open-plan or rental properties. #HomeDecor #IKEAHack #RoomDivider #RentalDecor #OpenConcept #StorageSolutions #DIYHome

The article introduces IKEA's new RESARÖ drop-leaf table, highlighting its suitability for small kitchens and apartment renters. The author, who previously resided in a tiny New York City apartment, recounts the challenges of furnishing a small kitchen, specifically the lack of dining space despite owning an IKEA BEKVÄM kitchen island for storage. The BEKVÄM island provided valuable storage for items like glasses and towels but lacked a surface for dining, forcing the author to eat meals on the couch or at a desk. The author also considered the NORDEN gateleg table, which offered a collapsible design for storage, but found it impossible to fit alongside the BEKVÄM in a kitchen so small that the oven door could not fully open. The RESARÖ drop-leaf table is presented as a combination of the best features of both the BEKVÄM and NORDEN. It incorporates open storage with solid surfaces, addressing the stability concerns of the BEKVÄM's slatted shelves. Crucially, the RESARÖ features a collapsible leaf at table-height, providing a dining surface for one person, or two for coffee, a feature missing from the BEKVÄM. Additionally, a second drop-leaf allows for the expansion of the island-height surface. Unlike the NORDEN, the RESARÖ is equipped with wheels, enhancing its mobility and versatility within a compact space. The article emphasizes the product's adaptability for personalization, noting that its solid pine construction allows for hacking with paint, stain, or the addition of accessories like hooks and towel rods. While the author now has a larger living space with a dedicated dining table, they express a strong wish that the RESARÖ had been available during their time in the small apartment, concluding that it is one of the most brilliant multi-use kitchen pieces IKEA has released for small spaces in recent years. #IKEAKitchen #SmallSpaceSolutions #ApartmentLiving #KitchenFurniture #DropLeafTable #HomeDesign #StorageSolutions #FunctionalDesign #SpaceSaving

The article highlights a minimalist kitchen design for a culinary couple, Aya Amornpan and Note Mansawataphaiboon, with a specific focus on accommodating a key kitchen appliance: the rice cooker. The design incorporates a custom-built, pint-sized 'garage' for the rice cooker, ensuring it remains readily accessible while being neatly concealed when not in use. This innovative storage solution addresses the common challenge of integrating frequently used but sometimes bulky appliances into a streamlined kitchen aesthetic. The kitchen’s overall design philosophy prioritizes both functionality and a clean, uncluttered appearance, reflecting the couple’s culinary habits and preference for minimalism. The article, part of the 'Focus' series, emphasizes the importance of thoughtful details in elevating a home's design. The 'rice cooker garage' serves as a prime example of how specific needs can drive creative and practical design elements. This approach moves beyond generic kitchen layouts, tailoring the space to the unique lifestyle and preferences of its inhabitants. The concealed storage for the rice cooker allows the countertops to remain clear, contributing to the kitchen's minimalist aesthetic and making it appear more spacious and organized. Furthermore, the design choice implicitly acknowledges the cultural significance and frequent use of a rice cooker for the couple, suggesting a design that is not just aesthetically pleasing but also deeply functional and personal. It illustrates how even small, specific design considerations can significantly impact the usability and visual harmony of a living space. The kitchen, while minimalist, is not devoid of character; its character is subtly defined by the intelligent integration of essential tools, transforming potential clutter into a deliberate design feature. This project underscores the idea that truly effective design considers every element, down to the most frequently used appliance, to create a cohesive and efficient environment. #MinimalistKitchen #KitchenDesign #ApplianceStorage #CustomCabinetry #HomeTours #CulinarySpace #InteriorDesign #SpaceSaving

The article discusses how a breakfast bar can enhance the appeal and functionality of a kitchen, drawing inspiration from HGTV's "Unsellable Houses." Even homes considered unsellable can be transformed through strategic design choices, and a cozy breakfast bar is highlighted as one such effective solution. On "Unsellable Houses," twin sisters Leslie Davis and Lyndsay Lamb demonstrate their ability to revitalize undesirable properties by implementing thoughtful renovations. They transformed a cramped kitchen space by integrating a stylish yet compact breakfast nook, proving that even small areas can become attractive selling points. A key strategy emphasized by Lyndsay and Leslie for attracting buyers is to maximize every inch of a home by creating multiple functional zones. A breakfast bar achieves this by offering a dedicated area where potential buyers can envision themselves enjoying morning routines or casual meals. This approach combines practicality with a sense of warmth, turning a previously overlooked or small space into a central, inviting feature of the home. This concept is valuable not only for those preparing to sell their property but also for homeowners looking to improve their living space. Specifically, the article references Season 4, Episode 9 of "Unsellable Houses," where a space formerly used for dog crates and storage was converted into a breakfast bar. The designers achieved this by installing a slim, wall-mounted table by a window and pairing it with two stools that could be tucked away to optimize room. This addition not only created more usable space but also helped to declutter the area. Lyndsay Lamb explained that the breakfast bar was intentionally kept small to allow for easy access and to provide a pleasant spot for enjoying coffee while observing children in the backyard. This illustrates how a well-thought-out design can cater to both aesthetic and practical needs within a limited footprint. The article suggests that homeowners can find neglected corners in their kitchens suitable for transformation into a cozy breakfast nook, offering a wide array of breakfast nook ideas for inspiration. For those looking to replicate the "Unsellable Houses" design, the article recommends specific products such as Furnikna's Wall-Mounted Table, available in various sizes, and Trent Home's Contemporary Metal Counter Stools. The inclusion of decorative plants is also advised to complete the inviting atmosphere. By carefully selecting the right elements, even a modest area can be converted into a charming and functional nook, thereby enhancing the overall appeal and utility of the kitchen. #KitchenDesign #BreakfastBar #HGTVUnsellableHouses #HomeRenovation #SmallKitchenIdeas #InteriorDesign #HomeStaging #DIYHomeDecor #SpaceOptimization