Before & After: This $7,000 Kitchen Cabinet Makeover Completely Revitalizes Outdated 20-Year-Old Brown Wood

In a recent kitchen renovation project, Tiffany Brown-Barino (@myeclecticnest) successfully transformed her 1990s-style kitchen, proving that significant updates don't always require an extensive budget or a complete overhaul. The project embraced current design trends, particularly the popularity of chocolate brown and dark wood tones, as highlighted by Apartment Therapy’s 2024 Designer Survey. Brown-Barino's approach focused on enhancing the existing chocolate brown cabinets rather than replacing them, demonstrating how strategic DIYs can make older features appear chic and contemporary. The primary focus of the renovation involved budget-friendly updates to the countertops and backsplash. Initially, the kitchen featured dark granite countertops and a dark tiled backsplash, which contributed to a dim overall feel. Instead of costly stone replacement, Brown-Barino opted for an epoxy countertop coating to achieve a faux quartz look. This innovative solution, costing only $95, involved using a white Rustoleum epoxy paint. While requiring patience due to quick application layers to prevent drying inconsistencies, the epoxy paint successfully covered the dark granite, creating a bright, white surface that closely resembled white quartz. This method was praised for its cost-effectiveness, with the epoxy paint being under $30 per quart and offering extensive coverage. For the backsplash, Brown-Barino chose a simple yet impactful DIY: a peel-and-stick faux stone option. Originally considering painting the existing brown tile backsplash, she decided against it to avoid redundancy with the painted countertops. The peel-and-stick solution introduced vertical drama and warmth to the space, especially around the sink area, with its subtle veining complementing the cabinet tones. She expressed immense satisfaction with this low-commitment, high-style return alternative, noting its ability to brighten the space effectively. To complete the updated aesthetic, mixed metals were incorporated, adding a touch of glamour. Champagne and gold accents were introduced through a new chandelier, a countertop lamp, a cake tray, and new cabinet pulls. In contrast, a chrome faucet was chosen to harmonize with the existing stainless steel appliances. This thoughtful combination of finishes created a cohesive and refined look. Tiffany Brown-Barino's kitchen redo serves as a compelling example of how minor, strategic updates can significantly revamp a space without requiring a complete demolition or substantial financial investment. Her project aligns with the idea that embracing and enhancing existing features, rather than always replacing them, can lead to equally stylish and on-trend results, offering valuable insights for homeowners looking to modernize their kitchens on a budget. #KitchenRenovation #BudgetDIY #FauxQuartz #PeelAndStickBacksplash #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ChocolateBrownCabinets #AffordableHomeImprovement #BeforeAndAfter

Dated wood cabinets can significantly detract from a kitchen's aesthetic, often prompting homeowners to seek budget-friendly ways to update their appearance without undergoing a full renovation. This article explores eleven affordable products designed to refresh old wood cabinets, addressing common issues like scratches, dullness, chipped finishes, and outdated hardware. For addressing scratches and restoring shine, the Rejuvenate Cabinet and Furniture Restorer is a highly-rated option. This thick formula fills scratches and enhances wood luster, suitable for sealed hardwood cabinets. It's priced at approximately $16 for a 16-ounce bottle, covering up to 650 square feet, and comes with a reusable microfiber mitt. Customers commend its ease of application, the shine it imparts, and its value, with 61% of nearly 5,000 reviewers giving it a 5-star rating. Similarly, the Rejuvenate Cabinet And Furniture Cleaner is recommended for pre-application cleaning. For imperfections like holes, Minwax Wood Putty is suggested, especially for finished wood surfaces. Available in 10 different finishes, this $7 putty remains pliable, preventing shrinking or cracking. Over 6,000 reviews give it a 4.1-star rating, with 58% awarding 5 stars, noting its effectiveness in filling small holes and user-friendliness. To change the cabinet color, Heirloom Traditions All-In-One Paint offers a DIY solution without the need for sanding or priming. Priced at $130, it comes in over 40 color options. With nearly 10,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, 76% of users give it 5 stars, praising its quality, durability, and ease of use. For a complete visual overhaul, Dimoon Wood Grain Wallpaper provides a peel-and-stick option in five wood grain patterns, starting under $10. These self-adhesive sheets offer a realistic wood look and can be removed without residue. Nearly 5,000 customers rate it 4.3 stars, with 69% giving it 5 stars, appreciating its appearance and ease of application. Chipped or peeling stains can be remedied with the SEISSO Wood Repair Kit, a $22 kit containing 12 resin repair fillers in various colors. Application involves squeezing the resin into imperfections and leveling it with a tail scraper. It holds a 4.2-star rating from over 3,000 reviews, with 62% being 5-star, highlighting its ease of use and blending capabilities. To restore vibrancy and gloss to dull finishes, CARGEN Beeswax is an eco-friendly option made from natural beeswax. For $12, it includes three jars and two sponges, effectively removing dirt and grease. It boasts a 4.4-star rating from over 12,000 reviews, with 67% being 5-star, noted for its cleaning efficacy and finish restoration. For minor scratches or nicks, the DEWEL Furniture Touch-Up Markers and Wax Sticks offer a quick fix. This $17 kit includes eight markers and eight wax sticks in various shades, drying in seconds. With over 2,700 reviews, it has a 4.3-star average, and 63% of reviewers give it 5 stars, valuing its ease of use, color variety, and ability to hide imperfections. Addressing the cabinet interiors, Gorilla Grip GripGuard Drawer and Shelf Liner protects and refreshes. Starting around $20, these water- and spill-resistant liners come in 13 colors and patterns, are easy to trim, and stay in place without sticky residue. Almost 9,000 reviews yield a 4.6-star rating, with 75% being 5-star, appreciated for quality, ease of cutting, and improved appearance. For more substantial wood repairs, the J-B Weld KwikWood Epoxy Putty Stick is a mixable epoxy for filling holes, gouges, or reshaping chipped corners. It has a 25-minute work time and cures in an hour, after which it can be painted. Priced at $11, it has a 4.5-star rating from over 7,500 reviews, with 72% being 5-star, praised for its ease of use and repair capabilities. Finally, to prevent slamming doors, DecoBasics Full Overlay Soft Close Cabinet Hinges provide a modern upgrade, starting at $10 for a set of two. These adjustable steel hinges offer a soft-close feature. Over 900 customers give them a 4.6-star rating, with 77% giving 5 stars, highlighting their value, easy installation, and effectiveness. To modernize the overall look, Ravinte Cabinet Pulls are available in seven finishes, starting at $7. These pulls can replace old handles to instantly update the cabinet aesthetic. With nearly 36,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average, 84% of customers give them 5 stars for being functional, attractive, and a good value. The methodology for selecting these products involved analyzing customer reviews, focusing on items with at least 900 reviews and a minimum 4.1-star rating. Special attention was paid to products with 74% or more 4- or 5-star ratings, ensuring high satisfaction. The selection also aimed for a variety of product types to cater to diverse DIY skill levels, preferences, needs, and budgets for refreshing dated wood cabinets. This approach allows homeowners to find suitable and affordable solutions for various cabinet conditions. #CabinetRefresh #WoodCabinets #KitchenRenovation #DIYHomeImprovement #AffordableDecor #HomeImprovementHacks #CabinetHardware #WoodRepair #InteriorDesign

Ceramicist Morgan Levine and her husband Gregory embarked on a comprehensive kitchen renovation in their Brooklyn apartment, aiming to transform their outdated 1940s kitchen into a functional and inviting space. The original kitchen, characterized by sporadic updates over the years, lacked the open and welcoming atmosphere the couple desired. Morgan, a ceramicist, specifically sought a space suitable for entertaining and for showcasing her pottery collection, emphasizing a preference for solid wood slab doors and cabinets that would age gracefully, acquiring character over time rather than requiring frequent replacement. The design process for the new kitchen drew inspiration from diverse sources. Morgan looked to her past experiences, including a visit to the 1930 Tugboat W.O. Decker at the South Street Seaport Museum. This experience influenced her desire for a kitchen that embodied a functional, decorative, and historic aesthetic. Additionally, her previous work for Martha Stewart informed her approach to the kitchen island, where she opted against traditional seating, instead dedicating the space to display cookware, a practice observed in Martha Stewart's own home and set designs. Contractor Nick Caraguilo from Transcend Construction was instrumental in developing the kitchen's layout. The new design prominently features numerous oak cabinets and drawers from Omega Cabinetry, providing extensive storage solutions. These cabinets are outfitted with Amazon knobs and Wayfair pulls. Morgan herself undertook several DIY projects for the renovation, including crafting a bobbin shelf for glassware and creating her own tile backsplash. The decision to make the backsplash tiles and hand-paint the pattern stemmed from the couple's inability to find commercially available options that satisfied their aesthetic preferences. Morgan expressed satisfaction with the unique palette and patterns she achieved through this personal endeavor. The renovated kitchen incorporates oak hardwood flooring, which harmonizes with the oak cabinetry. The wall colors, Benjamin Moore’s Simply White OC-117 with Chantilly Lace OC-65 on the trim, seamlessly blend with the peninsula's Benjamin Moore’s Newburg Green HC-158 hue. Wayfair pendant lights installed above the island contribute to the kitchen's visual appeal. An adjacent dining area, bathed in natural light, complements the kitchen, featuring a fireplace for which Morgan also created the tiles. The dining and kitchen areas are subtly divided by an IKEA IVAR cabinet, which ingeniously houses trash and recycling bins. Morgan appreciated how the oak counter and painted cabinet facilitated a smooth transition between the two spaces. The entire kitchen renovation project spanned approximately six months. Morgan expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the enhanced functionality, abundant natural light, and the kitchen's ability to feel simultaneously cozy and open. The transformation showcases a thoughtful blend of personal touches, practical design choices, and a nod to historical aesthetics, resulting in a kitchen that is both unique and highly livable for the couple. #KitchenRenovation #HomeMakeover #OakCabinets #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #BrooklynApartment #CustomBacksplash

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

This blog post details the DIY kitchen renovation undertaken by Hilary Crawford and her husband, Mark, in their 128-square-foot kitchen located in their colorful, four-bedroom home in Northern Ireland. The original kitchen featured dark wood cabinets that absorbed light, making the space feel gloomy and disconnected from the rest of their vibrant home. The primary goal of the renovation was to brighten the area and create a cohesive flow with the existing colorful living and dining spaces, all while adhering to a minimal budget. Crawford opted for a bold color palette of green/teal, pink, and mustard, drawing inspiration from her home's existing aesthetic. The renovation process was executed in stages, allowing the family to continue using the kitchen. The initial focus was on the cabinetry, where Crawford meticulously sugar-soaped, lightly sanded, and primed each of the five cabinet doors at a time. She then applied two coats of Little Greene’s Mid Azure Green paint to transform the dark wood into a vibrant teal hue. Following the cabinetry, the walls and ceiling were addressed. Crawford implemented a color-blocking technique, extending the pink chosen for the walls up onto the ceiling. This strategic application of Graham & Brown’s Lady Like Pink paint created an illusion of separation for the kitchen area while maintaining overall spatial continuity. This pink choice also complemented the mustard yellow Orla Kiely dandelion blinds, further integrating the new kitchen design with the home's established color scheme. To complete the transformation, new hardware was installed. Crawford selected Hive handles in raw brass from Dowsing & Reynolds, appreciating their six-sided design and how the brass tone contrasted with the green cabinets. For the tap, she chose the Neo Mint Tinkisso tap, also from Dowsing & Reynolds, noting its mint color perfectly harmonized with the newly painted cabinets. This renovation showcases how significant changes can be achieved with a limited budget through creative use of color and a DIY approach, proving that a complete overhaul isn't always necessary to achieve a visually stunning and functional space. #KitchenRenovation #DIYHome #ColorfulKitchen #BudgetRenovation #HomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #PaintTransformation #BeforeAndAfter

The article details a kitchen renovation project undertaken by Rhythm and her husband in their mid-century modern California home. Upon moving in three years prior, the existing kitchen was described as "weathered" and uninviting, prompting the couple to embark on a significant DIY transformation to better reflect their personalities and enhance the space's functionality. The couple aimed to maintain the home's mid-century modern aesthetic while introducing a fresh perspective. Instead of traditional walnut cabinets often associated with this style, they opted for IKEA's BODARP kitchen units in a gray-green color. To further personalize these, they collaborated with a designer from Semihandmade. The customization process involved ordering unfinished MDF panels and IKEA bases, which the couple then sanded, primed, and painted in Benjamin Moore's Lush. New hardware was added, and the IKEA bases were assembled. Following the demolition of the old kitchen, the couple installed new drywall, hung a metal railing for the IKEA system, and carefully mounted the cabinets. The custom-painted fronts were then attached, along with all necessary trim and pieces. This phase presented challenges due to the irregularities of their older Eichler home, where perfect 90-degree angles were rare. A key design element chosen for the renovation was terrazzo countertops from Concrete Collaborative. This selection was made to complement the gray-green cabinets and introduce vibrant colors and personality into the kitchen. The chosen terrazzo featured playful pink accents, creating a striking contrast with the cabinet hues. A fabricator measured and cut the terrazzo to fit perfectly before installation. The final touches included a classic white subway tile backsplash from Fireclay Tile, chosen for its ability to blend seamlessly without distracting from the kitchen's other prominent features. New Samsung appliances and an Elkay sink were also installed, completing the modern and functional update. The entire project was largely a DIY effort by Rhythm and her husband, taking five months to complete while they both worked full-time. The total material cost for the renovation was approximately $35,000. Key outcomes of the renovation included significantly increased storage, with the island also incorporating storage solutions to maintain a clutter-free environment. Rhythm expressed immense satisfaction with the new kitchen, describing it as peaceful, serene, and vibrant, with a balance of class and playfulness. The color scheme was also noted to complement the artwork displayed in the space, enhancing the overall aesthetic. The success of this hands-on project transformed a previously unwelcoming kitchen into the heart of their home, aligning with their personal style and practical needs. #KitchenRenovation #MidCenturyModern #DIYHomeImprovement #CabinetMakeover #TerrazzoCountertops #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation

Interior designer Leo Wood of Kinder Design was tasked with transforming a "blingy" kitchen in a south London townhouse while embracing sustainability and the client's maximalist aesthetic. The existing kitchen featured textured magenta cabinets, mock-Roman mosaic flooring, and excessive recessed lighting, presenting a design challenge. The homeowner, a climate-change scientist, prioritized sustainable and unique options over a complete overhaul, influencing Wood's approach to the renovation. The project focused on thoughtful modifications rather than extensive demolition. A key change involved replacing the sleek white countertops with salvaged butcher block. Wood sourced painted teak slabs from Retrouvius, a reclamation specialist, which were originally from a school science lab. These were stripped and sanded to reveal a warm, reddish tone that harmonized with the magenta cabinets. The discarded marble countertops were donated to a local salvage company, ensuring their reuse in another renovation project. For the backsplash, Wood drew inspiration from a reference image featuring varied wall tiles, aiming for a quirky and vibrant design that would appeal to the client. She commissioned Charlotte Moore, an architect and ceramicist, to create a custom design. Moore developed a concept based on distorted pollen viewed under a microscope, using saturated colors. Each of the 1,200 tiles was handmade and triple-glazed. To emphasize this unique artistic element, Wood opted for a smaller vent hood to maximize the visible wall space. Lighting was another area of significant improvement. The original recessed lights lacked personality and were distracting in the open-concept kitchen. Wood introduced playful elements, installing two simple pendant lights from Fritz Fryer above the island. Over the dining table, she incorporated a cluster of wicker shades from Chimbarongo, a Chilean enterprise known for artisans weaving natural materials onto discarded plastic bottles, adding a touch of whimsy and sustainability. The renovation also addressed a small interior window. Previously adorned with a transparent tree sticker, Wood removed the sticker and painted the frame with White Tie by Farrow & Ball, a soft yellow-white shade that was extended to the ceiling. This change redirected attention to the new backsplash tiles and brightened the space. Finally, the flooring was unified. The previous mock-Roman mosaic tiles and other flooring elements were inconsistent with the new design. Although a rubber floor was initially considered for its cohesive feel, time constraints led to a quicker solution. Wood chose to paint the existing planks and tiles in a duck-egg blue. This small but impactful change created a light, cohesive surface that made the magenta cabinets and colorful backsplash pop, transforming the kitchen into a space with an artistic studio-like ambiance. #KitchenRenovation #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #SalvagedMaterials #CustomTiles #PlayfulLighting #MaximalistDecor #BeforeAndAfter

Alex McCrery and Jenny Goodman, founders of the functional apparel company Tilit, undertook a $15,600 kitchen renovation in their pre-1900 farmhouse located 10 minutes outside of Hudson, upstate New York. The couple, who previously worked in restaurants and spent years as renters in NYC, aimed to create a chef-worthy space with modern, high-functioning appliances on a reasonable budget. Their new home, a fixer-upper, had not seen a full update in about 50 years, though it possessed a workable kitchen layout and decent lighting. The total square footage for the renovation was 500, with a top priority of achieving a professional kitchen environment. During the renovation, McCrery and Goodman encountered an unexpected structural element. While attempting to remove an old refrigerator submerged in drywall, they discovered a brick wall and chimney that were in fine condition behind it. This discovery was a result of a misaligned facade and an external chimney that did not correspond to any internal structure. A momentary scare arose when their contractor suspected a leak and potential mold, which could have led to replacing an entire side of the house. However, it was determined that the issue was a simpler structural fix related to the original construction lacking collar ties, which are horizontal beams designed to prevent rafters from spreading. The couple chose to splurge on dramatic black marble countertops, which cost $4,000. Despite initially considering Caesarstone and quartz, they opted for natural stone, finding the black marble slab to be less expensive than white options and aesthetically suitable for their vision. An offcut of this marble was used for the backsplash behind the stovetop. For the rest of the backsplash area, they utilized clean-looking Clé tiles for $280, due to budget constraints after maximizing their spending on the marble. To save money, they opted for a DIY dining nook. In March, they moved to the property with their two children, but had no dining furniture for the kitchen. Alex McCrery spent weekends in April building a table and a banquette for a total cost of $250. The initial table attempt was wobbly, being an old door, but a second, more stable version was created. The velvet cushions for the banquette were custom-made at an affordable wholesale price through their connections for Tilit products. Additionally, they decided to keep their existing solid wood cabinets, which were in good shape, instead of buying new ones. This allowed them to reconfigure the kitchen from a cramped U-shape to a more efficient galley layout. McCrery also crafted a new open cupboard next to the oven and a floating shelf for $50 using beams removed from the house during the staircase opening. The cabinets were painted in Valspar's Japanese Seaweed green for $100, a color chosen to complement the natural light and plant life surrounding the house. For appliances, they splurged on chef-approved items, acknowledging their professional backgrounds. They chose a 36-inch Verona gas range for $5,000, as larger options from brands like Wolf and Viking were outside their budget. The Verona range featured copper burners that harmonized with the stainless steel and brass accents in the space. They also selected a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator and a Bosch dishwasher, prioritizing quality within their budget. The couple emphasized retaining the farmhouse's original character, such as the brick wall, the concrete patch on the floor (which their Saint Bernard enjoys), and the wainscoting, rather than pursuing entirely new elements. This approach helped them achieve a unique and personalized kitchen while managing their budget effectively. #KitchenRenovation #FarmhouseKitchen #DIYRenovation #BudgetRemodel #HudsonValley #BeforeAndAfter #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement

This article highlights a kitchen transformation project undertaken by Mandi Johnson, who successfully updated her ranch-style kitchen on a budget of $2,000. The original kitchen featured dated dark wooden cabinets, and Johnson's primary goal was to brighten and modernize the space while utilizing existing elements. The core of the renovation involved painting the cabinets and installing new countertops, with Johnson performing the work herself to adhere to the strict budget. Johnson emphasized the significant impact a paint job can have, stating that inexpensive cabinets can be made to 'fade to the background' with a good paint finish, allowing other decorative elements like countertops and hardware to stand out. She specifically recommended splurging on these two elements to add a sense of quality to a space. Beyond painting, another key aspect of the renovation involved removing some upper cabinets. This strategic removal, combined with painting the remaining upper cabinet and walls white, visually opened up the space and significantly increased the amount of natural light in the kitchen. This was particularly beneficial given the home's limited large windows and shaded yard. For others looking to freshen up a space on a small budget, or even for renters, Johnson provided practical advice. She suggested focusing on easily changeable elements such as hardware, light fixtures, and wall paint color as these can make substantial differences without requiring major renovations. The final outcome of her project is described as fresh and open, demonstrating the power of thoughtful, budget-conscious updates. Johnson also shared her philosophy of choosing simple and timeless styles and advised taking the necessary time to do any painting correctly. Her full renovation journey was documented on her own blog and a blog she contributes to, A Beautiful Mess. #KitchenRenovation #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #BudgetDecor #KitchenDesign #InteriorPainting #CabinetPainting #HomeMakeover

Devin and Jess VonderHaar, residents of an organic modern bungalow in Portland, Oregon, undertook a significant kitchen transformation despite living in a rental property. Devin, who owns the holistic home organizing and design company The Modern Minimalist, sought to revitalize their kitchen, which she described as an "outdated beige on beige on beige mess." The primary objective was to infuse color, modernize the 1970s aesthetic, and enhance functionality within the small space, all while adhering to the limitations of a rental property. A crucial factor in the project's success was the landlord's unexpected leniency and support for their design aspirations. This support extended to reimbursing the couple for one of their projects, significantly reducing their overall expenses. The entire kitchen makeover was achieved on a modest budget, with the couple spending approximately $225. One of the initial and most impactful changes involved painting the kitchen cabinets. Devin selected a light eggshell paint color from Lowe's, costing $75, which dramatically altered the kitchen's dominant beige tone. Complementing the cabinet paint, the walls were updated with Clare's "Money Moves" sage green shade, further brightening the space and adding a touch of color. To continue the modernization of the cabinets, Devin chose new hardware from Etsy. These gold, rounded, mid-century style pulls were approved by the landlord, who subsequently reimbursed the couple for their cost, saving them $100. This reimbursement highlights the collaborative nature of the renovation and the landlord's willingness to invest in improvements. A key aesthetic feature of the redesigned kitchen is the sage peel-and-stick backsplash, also sourced from Etsy. This DIY addition, which involved careful selection of patterns and swatches, became a favorite element for Devin. The round penny tile pattern contributes color and visual interest without overwhelming the small area and was noted for its ease of installation. In terms of furniture, the couple utilized smart, space-saving solutions for their kitchen's "teeny nook." They incorporated a DOCKSTA Table from IKEA, and because traditional chairs would not fit, they opted for stackable KYRRE stools, also from IKEA. These stools proved to be a practical and efficient choice for the compact dining area. The article also encourages readers to explore the full house tour on Apartment Therapy to discover more space-saving hacks and design elements in Devin and Jess's home. #KitchenMakeover #RentalFriendly #BudgetRenovation #DIYHomeDecor #SmallSpaceDesign #PeelAndStickBacksplash #CabinetPainting #HomeTransformation

The article explores various strategies for modernizing dated wood kitchens without resorting to cabinet refinishing, a common and often costly renovation step. This approach is particularly beneficial for renters or homeowners with budget constraints or limited resources for extensive DIY projects. By focusing on other elements within the kitchen, significant aesthetic improvements can be achieved. One featured kitchen renovation involved the strategic use of new countertops and thrifted decor. The homeowners transformed a kitchen with orange-toned oak cabinets and an "ugly blue '80s Formica" countertop into an eclectic, contemporary space. They replaced the blue counters with more neutral black granite and integrated boho-beaded light fixtures and other black and white decor. This change neutralized the orange undertones of the cabinets, making them blend more harmoniously into the updated design. The total cost of this renovation was approximately $3,500, demonstrating how targeted changes can create a modern feel without altering the existing cabinetry. Another renovation highlights how 2000s-era cabinets can maintain their appeal with specific updates. In this $2,000 project, the homeowner removed upper cabinets to install open shelving, a statement-making backsplash, and a new oven hood. The lower cabinets and island were retained due to their good condition. Complementing these changes were poured concrete counters, bold black pendant lights, and new bar stools, which collectively contributed to an industrial-chic aesthetic that significantly departed from the kitchen’s original beige and uninspired look. A third example, costing $8,000, also embraced existing 2007 cabinets. The most impactful change in this renovation was the addition of white marble countertops, especially those with a waterfall edge. The article suggests that incorporating maximalist and modern elements like waterfall edges can effectively update dated cabinetry. Additionally, leveling the bar top to a consistent counter height further enhanced the kitchen's modern appeal. For renters facing restrictions on major renovations, the article presents a $600 project that leaned into the mid-century modern (MCM) vibes of 1963 cabinets. Unable to change appliances or countertops, the renter embraced the warm wood tones by introducing cool, darker shades through decor. This included a deep green mod-patterned peel-and-stick floor covering, black peel-and-stick subway tiles, and new dark cabinet pulls. These additions transformed the kitchen's look, evoking a "Mad Men" era aesthetic, all within a minimal budget and without permanent alterations. Finally, a $1,500 kitchen project demonstrated how new and existing cabinetry can coexist harmoniously. An Apartment Therapy contributor successfully blended new IKEA SEKTION cabinets with her original oak rental cabinets. The key to integrating these elements was adding matching knobs and pulls to both sets of cabinets, creating a cohesive black, white, and oak design. This project underscores that complete cabinet replacement is not always necessary to achieve a refreshed and unified kitchen appearance, even in rental properties. #KitchenRenovation #DatedKitchens #WoodCabinets #DIYHomeImprovement #BudgetRenovation #BeforeAndAfter #HomeProjects #RentalFriendly

Cristina Alvarez, founder of Curio Interior Design, undertook a kitchen renovation for a homeowner in Coral Gables, Florida, aiming to blend British cottagecore aesthetics with the local Floridian environment. The design inspiration subtly drew from the area's natural elements, including peacocks with their blue and green plumage, palm trees, and sunshine. The client expressed a desire for a yellow kitchen, leading Alvarez to select Fresh Butter by Benjamin Moore for the millwork, creating a bold foundation for the space. Contrary to a common trend, Alvarez opted against an open-concept floorplan, instead focusing on creating cozy, closed-off areas that would be authentic to the bungalow's 1940s architecture. The 165-square-foot kitchen-dining space underwent a significant transformation from its original layout, which was deemed inefficient with a tiny peninsula for the range and a misplaced refrigerator. The redesign involved strategically relocating the stove to the smallest wall to free up the peninsula for prep space and a dishwasher. The refrigerator was moved to an opposite corner, making way for a new AGA range. All appliances were paneled to achieve a streamlined look, allowing the vintage-inspired stove to stand out. The cabinetry, a central feature, was constructed by a local maker and clad in beadboard, a detail popular in English kitchens. Alvarez ensured meticulous alignment of the beadboard lines, a challenging but crucial aspect of the design. The client's willingness to use open shelves and Rejuvenation rails for plate and cookware storage allowed for specialized narrow cabinets to house spices, oils, and sheet pans, and larger cabinets were optimized with lazy Susans and pull-out drawers to maximize storage efficiency. For the countertops, Alvarez chose butcher block, a departure from the marble used in the client's previous modern apartment. The butcher block's warm, buttery undertones harmonized with the yellow cabinets. The flooring presented a design challenge, with options to match existing wood planks in the breakfast nook or terracotta tiles in the dining room. Instead, Alvarez embraced a 'choppy' approach, making the kitchen floor a distinct focal point with blue-and-white checkered cement tiles from Villa Lagoon. Special attention was given to ensuring smooth transitions and level surfaces at both entrances to the kitchen. For the backsplash, 4x4-inch glossy porcelain tiles were installed behind the stove for protection. The beadboard theme was extended to the rest of the wall, painted white to enhance brightness in the space, which has only one small window. This design choice prevented the area from feeling dark. The breakfast nook, located next to the kitchen, was designed to maintain easy access to the back patio. A freestanding banquette from Serena & Lily was placed against the wall, complemented by a rattan-wrapped pedestal table and dining chairs from the same brand. Durable vinyl grasscloth wallpaper was chosen for the walls to withstand wear from the homeowner's dogs. A ruffly Svenskt Tenn pendant served as a favorite addition, tying together the room's color scheme and completing the integrated design. #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #Cottagecore #YellowKitchen #BeadboardCabinets #FloridaDesign #TraditionalInteriors #HomeRemodel

This article details a kitchen remodel of a family home in Studio City, Los Angeles, undertaken by designers Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of House of Rolison. The project aimed to transform a dark, outdated 1980s-style kitchen into a modern, airy, and elevated space, challenging the contemporary preference for light and bright wood finishes. The original kitchen was characterized by drab, dark wooden cabinets, near-black countertops, and a clashing backsplash, making the space feel dimly lit despite large windows. The brief emphasized creating a cozy and cocooning environment, utilizing dark woods to introduce warmth and rich textures. The designers approached the remodel with the intention of demonstrating that dark wood is far from outdated, suggesting that natural materials like wood are always in style and can be reimagined to fit modern aesthetics. They specifically chose Querkus white oak with a custom Rubio Monocoat stain to highlight the wood grain and add depth. To balance the dark cabinetry, an off-white kitchen emulsion paint was selected for its neutral yet warm qualities. Hardware featuring brassy metals was incorporated to provide warm metallic accents, complementing the dark wood, as designers find warmer palettes easier to accessorize. A key element in the new design is the custom-made fluted island, which introduces an additional layer of texture to the space. The designers explain that fluting, when combined with wood, creates a seamless visual flow and offers a subtle yet engaging detail. The island's design was meticulous, involving assembling boxes to establish size and layout, and adding a round edge to soften its presence and prevent it from overpowering the room. Statement pendant lighting, intentionally oversized, hangs above the island to add drama and confidence to the design, creating a focal point that draws attention. The remodel successfully transformed the kitchen into a modern, inviting space that champions dark wood cabinetry, proving its relevance and versatility in contemporary design. The design strategy focused on grounding the space with a neutral palette, incorporating textured materials, and using bold lighting fixtures. This approach refutes the notion that dark wood cabinets are gloomy or outdated, instead presenting them as a sophisticated choice that can contribute to a cozy and elevated home environment. The article also provides actionable advice for readers looking to incorporate dark wood elements into their own kitchens, suggesting specific accessories like dark walnut cutting boards, ash wood stools, and fluted wooden console tables. #KitchenRemodel #DarkWoodCabinets #ModernKitchenDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #KitchenTrends #FlutedIsland #LightingDesign #HouseOfRolison

This article details a kitchen renovation project in Washington, DC, led by designer Kristen Mendoza of Four Brothers Design + Build. The primary challenge was transforming an oddly shaped kitchen with irregular angles and an obstructing peninsula into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space suitable for both everyday use and entertaining. The homeowner desired a kitchen with ample space for guests to move around and gather at an island, along with improved functionality for herself, addressing previous issues of limited storage and countertop space due to poorly placed appliances. Mendoza's winning design focused on creating a dedicated cooking wall, an appliance and cabinetry wall, a central island, and a buffet/display area. The cooking wall served as a crucial starting point for straightening the room's irregular angles. To achieve a streamlined look, Mendoza varied the depths of the wall cabinets flanking the Miele range and ventilation hood, with shallower cabinets on one side and deeper ones on the other. This created a visually unified surface with the Carrara marble backsplash and maintained generous countertop space on the standard 24-inch deep base cabinets. Integrated appliance garages within the wall cabinets offered concealed storage for small appliances, contributing to the clean aesthetic and practical use. A key element of the renovation was the introduction of a new island, replacing the old peninsula that previously bisected the room, hindering flow and social interaction. The island, featuring a Cabico Custom Cabinetry base in a "Caviar" hue matching the cooking wall cabinetry, became a focal point. This deep plum color provided a striking contrast to the white perimeter cabinetry, with a matte finish adding a tactile quality. The dual-tone kitchen concept was central to the design, emphasizing the island and range wall with darker tones while keeping the perimeter neutral for balance and impact. The island's polished Carrara marble top, with its dramatic veining and a waterfall edge on one side, echoed the perimeter surfaces. An angled end on the island’s top subtly referenced the room's original silhouette, integrating the unique architectural elements into the new design. The island was equipped with a Kraus sink, Bosch paneled dishwasher, and a mix of metal finishes, including a Chrome Brizo Artesso articulating faucet, Honey Bronze Top Knobs hardware, and a Matte Black/Brass Lambert & Fils double pendant, fulfilling the client's desire for a blend of colors, finishes, and metals. The island also incorporated extensive seating, crucial for entertaining. The renovation also significantly addressed storage needs with an expanded appliance and custom cabinetry wall. This area, previously a small pantry, now houses a built-in JennAir refrigerator, Monogram undercounter wine refrigerator, and a versatile Miele speed oven. Mendoza highlighted the speed oven's efficiency for daily use due to its compact size and dual functionality as an oven and microwave. Custom cabinetry solutions included a tall pantry for cleaning supplies and a slender, flip-up door cabinet above the refrigerator for less frequently used items like platters and cookbooks. Bi-fold doors conceal a coffee station with a Carrara marble countertop and shelves, while drawers and roll-outs optimize storage below the speed oven. Beyond the kitchen's interior, the project extended to an outdoor patio renovation, accessible via custom French doors from the kitchen and living room. This patio, located above a renovated carport, was transformed from an unsafe and underutilized space into an inviting area for guests to circulate between indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces. A buffet/display area, dubbed the 'art wall,' with custom white cabinetry and a Carrara marble countertop, further enhanced the entertaining capabilities, doubling as a drink or crudités station with illuminated shelving for displaying art. The comprehensive renovation successfully transformed a challenging layout into a highly functional, visually cohesive, and inviting space for both the homeowner and her guests. #KitchenRenovation #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenIsland #CustomCabinetry #ApplianceIntegration #EntertainingSpace #CarraraMarble #DesignChallenge #FunctionalLayout

This article highlights a kitchen renovation project in a Mid-Century style home, focusing on how subtle design changes can significantly impact both functionality and aesthetics. The original kitchen suffered from a lack of natural light, dated cabinetry, and insufficient storage, leading to a cluttered and uninviting atmosphere. The primary goal of the renovation was to preserve the home's inherent vintage charm while integrating a more contemporary look and optimizing the kitchen's utility. Jennifer Verruto, founder and CEO of Blythe Interiors, spearheaded the project. Given the relatively small size of the kitchen and the constraint of maintaining the existing layout, the design team prioritized innovative storage solutions. The key to enhancing storage without expanding the room's footprint was a clever adjustment to the cabinetry. While the cabinets initially appeared to be the same size post-renovation, they were actually extended 10 inches higher to align with the window line. This seemingly minor tweak significantly increased vertical storage, effectively almost doubling the cabinetry space available for the homeowners' extensive mid-century collections. This strategic use of vertical space underscores the importance of maximizing every inch in a compact kitchen. Beyond just adding space, the renovation also focused on optimizing the internal organization of the cabinets. Jennifer Verruto emphasizes that effective storage extends to how the space within cabinets is utilized. The team integrated various custom inserts to facilitate organization, such as roll-out trays, storage systems for lids, pots, and pans, trash pullouts, spice racks, and lazy Susans. The article advocates for the use of drawers over traditional shelves, explaining that drawers offer greater functionality by allowing full utilization of space and easier access to items without the need to rearrange contents. For updated cabinetry, Jennifer recommends installing double drawers for larger items like pots and pans, and triple drawers for smaller items such as spices, baking needs, and Tupperware, noting that a drawer can accommodate double the contents of a low cabinet. In addition to functional improvements, the redesign addressed the kitchen's aesthetic issues, particularly the lack of light. The design team employed simple yet impactful tricks to make the space appear brighter and larger. A crucial element was the careful selection of wall paint. Instead of just any white, Sherwin Williams Snowbound (SW 7004) was chosen for its absence of undertones, which prevents the space from appearing dingy or gray. This clean white allows other colors, such as the mint green paneling in the home bar area, to stand out. The kitchen's walnut cabinets were topped with solid white quartz and paired with an all-white backsplash, further contributing to the brightened look. To complete the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic and improve illumination, a statement pendant light and an additional sconce were installed. This renovation serves as an example of how a balanced approach, combining subtle design hacks with thoughtful functionality, can transform a dated kitchen into a modern, efficient, and visually appealing space while honoring its original character. #KitchenRenovation #MidCenturyModern #StorageSolutions #CabinetryDesign #InteriorDesign #SmallKitchenIdeas #HomeImprovement #SpaceOptimization #KitchenStorage