A Vintage-Styled Kitchen Makeover
photographs by LESLEE MITCHELL; text by GEN SOHR (@PENCILANDPAPERCO)
I know most people would have just demolished 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 bandwagon. Do what feels right for your family.
Before:
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 for a more functional location for the fridge and recessed 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.
More: 6 quick and easy kitchen design ideas.
Next, we gave all of 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.
More: Must-see kitchen decor ideas!
After the “heavy lifting” was complete, 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.
More: A glimpse at a budget-friendly kitchen makeover.
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!
More: An easy kitchen redo!
