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I know most people would have just demoed this space to create a big open concept kitchen and family room. But, we felt like the existing floor plan really worked in this house. We loved having the intimacy of the current kitchen layout. It’s funny how trends ebb and flow. Just remember……you don’t always have to jump on the band wagon. Do what feels right for your family.

The bones of this kitchen were good. I loved the regency style cabinet details and they were in pristine condition.

Negatives….the lighting was terrible, the tile counters were impractical, and the floors were vinyl. Generally dated and in need of some “love”.

First we tackled some minor construction. Removed the soffet and makeshift recessed lighting.

We eliminated a small awkward cabinet to allow a more functional location for the fridge and recess it into the wall (one of the easiest ways to make a kitchen look custom).

We removed the built-in ironing board which allowed us to expand the pantry for additional hidden storage and replaced vinyl floors with wood.

Next we gave all the cabinets a fresh coat of paint inside and out and updated the hardware with a simple modern chrome knob.

We added butcher block counters and simple white

subway tile

to keep the space feeling clean and fresh.

Finally we replaced all the old white appliances with one of my favorite appliance packages from Fisher + Paykel.

After the “heavy lifting”…. I had fun layering on the final details. We chose classic school house style pendants and a graphic

serena and lily

wallpaper.

The off the shelf stainless steel island adds extra work space and another casual eating spot for the kids.

Sometimes it just takes a little imagination to bring an “old kitchen” back to life! Check out our “Design to Go” program if you need a little help making your space feel like home!