The Journey Begins
Those days of needing a full kitchen renovation to achieve a modern and inviting feel are long gone. As the design expert behind ABC Home & Renovations in Aberdeen, I’m thrilled to share an incredible transformation that will have you rethinking your kitchen upgrade plans.
It all started when I stumbled upon a post by the lovely Madison Bess of The Blushing Bungalow. Her words resonated with me: “Now, there are plenty of easy and budget-friendly ways to rejuvenate your kitchen.” Challenge accepted!
Extending to the Ceiling
As Madison pointed out, extending your cabinets all the way to the ceiling can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. This simple yet impactful change maximizes storage and gives the space a more sophisticated vibe.
We had two options: install extra cabinetry or create custom shelves to bridge the gap. Determined to save on costs, we opted for the latter, building on top of the existing cabinets and leaving them open. The result? Absolute perfection. The new additions, painted the same color as the upper cabinets, seamlessly blended in for a unified appearance.
Painting It Pretty
But wait, there’s more! Madison’s tips just kept getting better. “Save money and skip the full-on kitchen renovation by painting your backsplash!” she exclaimed. This beginner-friendly project is shockingly simple and can be completed in a single day.
I took her advice to heart, thoroughly cleaning the tile surface to remove any grease or grime. Then, I selected a high-quality paint designed specifically for tile and got to work, applying it using a brush or roller and working in small sections for uniform coverage. After drying, I sealed the paint with a clear topcoat for extra durability and protection.
Painting the Cabinets
If your current cabinets are in good condition, you don’t need to invest in new ones – painting can significantly change your kitchen’s appearance. I followed Madison’s step-by-step process, starting by removing the cabinet doors and hardware, thoroughly cleaning and sanding the surfaces, and then applying a primer designed for smooth surfaces.
Next, I sanded again before painting with a color I absolutely adored – “Jungle Camouflage” by Behr. To achieve optimal results, I repeated the sanding and painting process a few times, even though it was a lot of work. Trust me, the effort was well worth it. Once dry, I reattached the doors, pulls, and knobs, and waited patiently for the paint to fully cure over the next few weeks.
Lighting It Up
As Madison eloquently stated, “Lighting is essential in design as it sets the mood, emphasizes decor, and can make a room appear larger.” I wholeheartedly agree, and there are numerous affordable lighting options available.
I particularly fell in love with the delicate light fixture we selected for over the sink. While I enjoy mixing metals, for the lights, it was crucial that the metals matched, giving each light choice a deliberate and cohesive feel.
Faucet Finesse
Replacing your kitchen faucet is one of the simplest updates you can make to refresh your space. You might be skeptical, thinking, ‘Really? Faucets?’ But consider this – faucets are like the jewelry of your kitchen. While they may seem like minor details, they can significantly enhance the overall appearance and ambiance of the room.
Open Shelving Charm
Open shelving in a kitchen adds a cozy touch that’s hard to beat! While it requires more upkeep, it brings a homely and inviting, cozy energy to the space. It’s the perfect spot to showcase your favorite items like cookbooks, glassware, and daily decor, adding both charm and practicality. We opted for stained oak shelves paired with adorable vintage-inspired brackets for a nostalgic touch.
Putting It All Together
Updating your kitchen doesn’t need to involve a costly renovation. The best part? These are all DIY projects. Choose one, two, or all of these ideas, you can’t go wrong! Get creative, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating a space you love.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of stylish cabinetry and rejuvenate your kitchen with ease. The team at ABC Home & Renovations in Aberdeen is here to guide you every step of the way, making your dream kitchen a reality.
