Low Cost Kitchen Makeover in a Coastal Style
See how a drab 1980s kitchen was transformed into functional space with the help of some new paint, updated hardware, a beadboard backsplash and shiplap-style walls.
By:
Laurie March
Related To:
A Kitchen Evolution
This light and breezy kitchen was once a disfunctional mess with an outdated look. By thinking outside the design box, these first-time homebuyers were able to update the space for not a lot of money and just a little elbow grease.
Before: A Questionable Kitchen
This kitchen was in need of a facelift that wouldn’t cost the homeowners an arm and a leg. With a few easy-to-incorporate design ideas, this sad space is transformed into an enjoyable meeting place.
Before: A Sad State of Affairs
This pantry space is not utilized as well as it could be. It is hard to locate items and remove them without creating spills or messes.
After: Pulling Your Weight
Retrofitting the pantry with bamboo drawers allows the homeowners to access all their dry goods and cookware with just a simple glide.
Before: Getting In The Way
This is one of the most frustrating design flaws in this kitchen. The perpendicular drawers are so close together, the opposing handles stop them from opening. The pull had to be removed from one of the drawers to access the other drawer. The previous owners had built the kitchen cabinets, and did not take this into account when they designed the space.
After: Slide On By
The problem is solved by installing flip-up, inset drawer-pulls. Now it’s easy to have full access to both drawers. Sturdy hardware makes for a comfortable grip and a stylish look.
Before: Bye, Bye 80s Seashells
This grimy, overly pink backsplash had its day and now it’s done. For a family with no time for the mess and disruption a re-tile would require, one of the simplest fixes for an outdated backsplash is properly installing beadboard over it.
A Charming Green Update
Beadboard is inexpensive, durable when coated with semi-gloss paint and a clear acrylic coat, and it makes for clean lines. Another bonus? It can be painted any shade under the sun!
Small Touches
Even the smallest details, like replacing beige outlet covers with crisp white ones makes a difference in giving an old kitchen a new look.
Before: Dining Area
This uninviting, empty breakfast nook was the last place anyone wanted to eat, and it's kind of an awkward use of space.
After: Stylish Dining
The eating area is now functional and loaded with personality. A wood accent wall adds warmth to the white-based color palette, while touches of turquiose lend a fun coastal feel. Extra storage is provided by wall shelves and a rolling cart that was painted and tricked out with a variety of baking accessories.
That's More Like It
Using leftover flooring from a remodel in the living room, an accent wall was installed to create a striking, warm focal point. The deep hue creates a cozy counterpoint to the crisp-white and green color palette, and ties the kitchen in with the rest of the home via the coordinating flooring.
The Magic of Metal
A slim metal trim, often used as a flooring or tile transition piece, breaks up the driftwood gray accent wall in a clean way. It blends seamlessly with the other metal finishes in the kitchen hardware, and adds a contemporary touch.
Bakers Delight
Trick out a plain rolling island with a few easy updates into an enviable baking cart. A favorite paint color, some trendy drawer pulls and a vintage rolling pin modernize the basic cart, and glam up a very useful storage piece.
Mo' Shelves, Mo' Storage
In a smaller space, a larger shelving unit can be bulky. A couple of smaller shelves can provide more space for overflow cooking materials and some pretty, baking supplies – just waiting for a happy cookie creating adventure!
Hang in There
Many cooking utensils and basics can be quite pretty. Save room in your cabinets and create a charming, focal point by hanging colorful colanders vertically. Bonus – they’re easy to grab when needed.
Bring It to The Table
Like cabinetry, tables can be sanded down and painted for an exceptional update. White is a standard for a fresh, clean look but you can choose any color that goes with your color scheme.
Have a Seat
A banquette not only expands the seating potential in the breakfast nook, but it also adds an air of sophistication.
Let There Be Light
A new light fixture not only illuminates the dining nook, but it helps set the mood. This light inspires warmth while elegantly emphasizing "less is more".
Add Open Access to Frequent Use Items
This swanky open glassware cabinet provides easy access to everyday glasses. Purchasing glasses that are pretty, and in a matching set will help everyone remember where the glasses go.
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