Monday, May 20, 2013

Let's Talk About the Kitchen

Sometimes I have to take a step back, breathe into a paper bag for a few minutes, and remind myself that not every surface in this old place needs work. There are a few spaces where only a few tweaks are necessary. 

For instance, the kitchen had no personality and had stainless steel EVERYWHERE. While perfectly lovely for a modern home, I was not really feeling the old victorian farmhouse charm here. 


Just replacing the cabinet hardware from modern stainless steel to victorian oil-rubbed bronze made a huge difference. Downsizing the light fixture makes the room look bigger and helps take the focus off the stainless steel.


Again before:


After:


Feels much more like a farmhouse and didn't cost a small fortune. I'd like to someday change the counter tops and add a tile backsplash, but for now this option fits the budget better. I do think maybe I'm going to change the paint color though. I've always had a yellow kitchen. I think my psyche needs a yellow kitchen. This color on a cloudy day seems very grey, like a jail cell.

(By the way, that stainless steel light fixture/pot rack is for sale. Make me an offer I can't refuse.)

9 comments:

Rachy said...

What an improvement!!! Good job :)

Lynda said...

It is amazing how little things can make a big difference. Also, so many are updating to your current look with the stainless, etc. but like you said, it does not fit the decor of your entire house. The great news is you have a functioning space so you have the luxury of remodeling at "leisure" as the budget permits.

Jayne said...

Changing the cabinet hardware did make a big difference. The bronze works much better in your house. That's a great light, too.

Karen Anne said...

It's beyond me why people like stainless steel. Every time I see or read about an old house that someone has put stainless steel appliances into, I cringe.

If I had endless amounts of money, I'd replace that refrigerator and microwave, and get a restored O'Keefe & Merritt or Wedgewood gas stove.

Elaine said...

Isn't it amazing what a few little changes can do? Your pie safe and mine could be twins!!

Kim said...

Absolutely charming!

benita said...

On the pot rack - $25 and I'll pick it up?

Willow said...

Nice job. Our country kitchen has yellow walls .

casacaudill said...

Yes, that kitchen is crying out for a bright, happy color.