• Home
  • About
    • Disclosure & TOS
    • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
  • Home Tours
    • Townhouse Tour | Part 1 | Main Floor
    • Townhouse Tour | Part 2 | Upstairs
    • Family House Tour
  • Shop
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

DesignThusiasm

  • Homestyle
    • Evergreen Decor
    • Winter Decor
    • Spring Decor
    • Summer Decor
    • Fall Decor
  • Tablescapes
    • Winter
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Fall
  • Lifestyle
    • Travelfolio
    • Organizing
    • Easy Elegance Wednesdays
    • French Country Fridays
    • Home Style Saturdays
    • Creative Friends
    • E-Design
    • Style Showcase
  • The Shop
    • The Designthusiasm Shop
    • Shop My Home
    • Shop My Favorites
    • Shop My Instagram
    • Shopping Guides
  • Home
  • About
    • Disclosure & TOS
    • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
  • Home Tours
    • Townhouse Tour | Part 1 | Main Floor
    • Townhouse Tour | Part 2 | Upstairs
    • Family House Tour
  • Homestyle
    • Evergreen Decor
    • Winter Decor
    • Spring Decor
    • Summer Decor
    • Fall Decor
  • Tablescapes
    • Winter
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Fall
  • Lifestyle
    • Travelfolio
    • Organizing
    • Style Showcase
    • French Country Fridays
    • Home Style Saturdays
    • Creative Friends
    • E-Design
  • The Shop
    • The Designthusiasm Shop
    • The Pillow Shop
    • Shop My Home
    • Shop My Favorites
    • Shopping Guides
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE and receive my FREE ebook: “A Year of Seasonal Decor”

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets

Today I’m so excited to share with you the final reveal of our kitchen renovation! I think you will agree this is a pretty mind-blowing transformation and we did it without removing a single kitchen cabinet. Obviously, this saved us an enormous amount of money and yet it didn’t diminish the impact of this dramatic kitchen renovation.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

I’m including a few ‘before and after’ photos because I think the difference is so compelling. The photo below shows you the original kitchen as it looked before the renovation. We had already replaced the lighting over the island when we moved in a year ago, as well as painted the walls greige in anticipation of the project I envisioned.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

Below is the same view in the completed kitchen and you can see nothing was moved from it’s place and yet the striking change and overall feel is like the difference between night and day. From dark and depressing with no real design sense, the kitchen is now light and airy, with a French influenced sensibility and antique touches to play off the classic details.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

I’ve detailed the construction in the last few weeks’ (which you can access at the bottom of this post), and this week I focused on styling and ensuring the space reflected my taste and lifestyle. I try to keep my counters relatively clear and spent a good bit of time shopping for just the right accessories to accommodate the things I deemed necessary to keep readily available.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

The previous kitchen was dominated by dark cherry cabinets, a muddy toned ceramic floor and black granite counters. The choppy backsplash was part granite and part steel grey tile and the net effect was dour and characterless. It felt oppressive to me every time I walked into the room.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

Without a doubt the most significant change was brought about by painting the cabinets, but of equal importance to defining the new look was adding glass fronts to the doors. This opened up the whole space while providing both storage and display options. I chose to go all white when styling the inside of the cabinets for a tranquil and organized look.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

The beauty of a white kitchen is that it can be accessorized with pretty much any color. The pink and green floral adds a delightful pop of color, as the chinoiserie vase lends a classical note that works perfectly with the design of the kitchen.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

A last “before” photo, below, shows one of the darkest angles in the room. I worried that this view would never be filled with light, but alas, the transformation is remarkable.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

Bolstered by the new marble backsplash and white quartz on the center island, this vantage point now reveals an extraordinarily evolved perspective. You can also spot the scrolled corbels that were added for polish beneath the countertop. The lovely new floor is also visible here, which gives the room its essential character.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

When styling the countertops I was certain I wanted vintage and preferably French in origin. That worked out well for this aged French bread box and I picked up the condiment set at a local antique market. (Yes, odd that it says bread in English, but it did originate in France.)

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

The view from the den is among my favorites because the light openness is common to both rooms. You can get a peek at our cabinet and bin pulls which complement the brass in the chandeliers.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

Next to the stove I’m using an antique silver ice bucket to corral all of my utensils. A vintage silver serving tray rests casually against the backsplash.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

This great little sign was added not long ago and is perfect above the pantry doors. I’d still like to add new door levers to dress up the pantry a bit. The wall color is Benjamin Moore Tapestry Beige which provides the perfect backdrop.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

The pieces are placed in groupings on the counters to ensure breathing room between them

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

Lately I’ve had a thing for vintage marmalade jars and the one below holds antique silver dessert forks and mother-of-pearl knives.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

I’ve always love mixing metals in my decor and both gold and silver are utilized here. The shallow footed bowl holds a stack of plates for charm, as well as easy access.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

I love my trio of mini crystal chandies and they finally make sense in the renovated space.

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

The final glimpse shows a peek at the breakfast area, but that’s still got some changes coming, so we’ll leave that for another day. I couldn’t be happier with this room transformation and how quickly it all came together. The money we saved by painting the cabinets and using existing appliances made the project very manageable. I’m already thinking about my next One Room Challenge and I can tell you it’s another biggie!

Dramatic Kitchen Renovation without Removing Cabinets | Designthusiasm.com

Source List – Click on the items below for direct links to the products. Where actual items were no longer available, I’ve provided similar options. (This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.)

The paint we used for the cabinets is Muralo Semi-gloss in Benjamin Moore White Dove.

  • Marble backsplash tile
  • Faux wood porcelain tile floor
  • Cabinet bin pulls
  • Ribbon & reed pulls
  • 3 Chandeliers over island
  • General store sign
  • Vintage bread box
  • Marmalade jar
  • Vintage ice bucket
  • Vintage silver tray
  • White tufted chairs
  • Cane back chairs
  • Crystal basket chandelier 
  • Chinoiserie vase

To see our renovation in more detail please visit these posts from the prior weeks:

Updating the Island Counter | Changing the Kitchen Floor

Replacing the Kitchen Counter for a Dramatic Impact | Designthusiasm.com     Faux Wood Tile for the New Kitchen Floor | Designthusiasm.com

Installing a New Backsplash | Painting the Existing Cabinets

Calcatta gold marble backsplash | kitchen renovation | Designthusiasm.com     White painted cabinets simplify a kitchen renovation | Designthusiasm.com

~•~

Have you visited the Designthusiasm shop? Click below to shop my favorites, my home and my Amazon shop. There are new items added every week. Happy shopping!!

  Shop My Favorites                       Shop My Home                   Shop My Amazon Shop

Designthusiasm Shop - Modern French Country Decor      Shop My Home      Designthusiasm Amazon Shop

~•~

Are you following Designthusiasm on social media?  Please join us at the links below:

Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram

 

 

Get my FREE ebook, "A Year of Seasonal Decor", as a thank you for subscribing to my newsletter!
CELEBRATING MODERN FRENCH STYLE AND CASUAL ELEGANCE IN YOUR HOME...
By subscribing to our newsletter, you consent to receive new post updates and occasional promotions related to Designthusiasm content. We will never share your information with third parties and will protect it in accordance with our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

103 Comments Filed Under: Evergreen Decor, Homestyle   Tagged With: kitchen renovation, kitchen reveal, One Room Challenge, white kitchen

« A Burnished Copper Tablescape for a Warm Thanksgiving Dinner
Home Style Saturdays 8 | Holiday Transition »

Comments

  1. Stephanie Thompson says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 7:57 am

    Wow! What a difference! Love it! You did a fabulous job! Lots of personality! You must be very pleased!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:17 am

      Thank you, Stephanie! I am quite happy and I’m glad to hear it has personality… 🙂 Its hard to tell when it’s your own, but I was hoping it didn’t look like everyone else’s white kitchen (even though I love them all!)

      Reply
  2. Jeanie says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 8:02 am

    Beautiful!! What a great transformation! What paint did u use for the cupboards?

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 3:38 pm

      Thanks, Jeanie! And thanks for reminding me – I meant to add that to this post and will add it in now. It’s Muralo Semi-gloss in Benjamin Moore White Dove.

      Reply
  3. ruby says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 8:14 am

    what a vision, lory! so inspiring. yes, the sign is perfect over a pantry! love how you have accessorized and thanks for all the links. is the banana holder something you already had? i’m crushin on it. now i want those floors! lol!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:18 am

      Thanks, Ruby! The banana holder is actually from The Enchanted Home Blog. She has a shop on her blog with wonderful things… 🙂

      Reply
      • Donna says

        Sunday, May 6, 2018 at 2:44 pm

        Stunning makeover in every way!

        Reply
        • Lory at Designthusiasm says

          Sunday, May 6, 2018 at 5:28 pm

          Thank you so much!!

          Reply
  4. Eve says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 8:45 am

    Love it! We had our formica kitchen cabinets painted Linen White- Benjamin Moore- and what a difference it made. Love the blue and white vase! Where can I purchase one like it?

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 3:36 pm

      Thanks, Eve! The blue and white vase is from Tina’s shop at The Enchanted Home, but I just looked and she doesn’t seem to be carrying it now. I added a link to a very similar vase in the source list in this post. In fact, I think I may get one for the kitchen because I borrowed this one from our family room for these photos… 😉

      Reply
  5. Chloe Crabtree says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 9:09 am

    Oh Lory! I am swooning over your kitchen renovation! It is all so beautiful! I love every little detail! Enjoy your kitchen every single day, I know you will!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:19 am

      Thanks so much, Chloe! So far I’m definitely enjoying… 😉

      Reply
  6. C. GRESHAM says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 9:29 am

    I’m amazed that the black counters don’t detract from the overall light and airy ambiance of the new kitchen. In fact, through the eye of the lens, the dark counters aren’t even noticeable. Impressive!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:20 am

      I so agree and I was really worried about that! I was so afraid they would bring the whole thing down but replacing them was just way too costly. In the end, replacing just the island was the right solution for us… 🙂

      Reply
  7. Kathy Simonson says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 10:58 am

    I could hardly wait to open your post this morning in anticipation of seeing your kitchen completed and decorated…I’m ready to move in–LOL!! It is absolutely fabulous. The biggest transformation I think are the painted cupboards and added glass to the doors, but really all the changes together makes this a beautiful designer kitchen, but a very comfortable to live in space. Keeping your dark granite worked out very well and saved you quite a bit of dollars, and it makes your marble island stand out like it should–it is stunning. Thanks again for all your posts. Looking forward to watching your next space develop. You know you’re my favorite designer!!! Best-Kathy

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:23 am

      Aw Kathy, what a nice thing to say! Thank you so very much! It’s true, this renovation has made such a difference to me, because we spend so much time in the kitchen and it’s literally at the center of our house. It makes me happy to walk in there now… 🙂

      Reply
  8. bobbi duncan says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 11:43 am

    So excited to see this final reveal, and it’s a stunner!!!!!!! Love all the accessories, too. Isn’t it amazing how transformed something can be in a short amount of time? Even all the clean-up is worth it when you love the finished look. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:24 am

      Thanks Bobbi, and it’s true, I’m amazed at how quickly it was done! In fact, I dragged it out a bit to fit the One Room Challenge, but it really only took 3 weeks once everything was ordered… 🙂

      Reply
  9. Ginger says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 11:59 am

    Oh Lory! It’s gorgeous! I probably would have slept in there the first night after competition because I couldn’t drag myself away. Enjoy!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:26 am

      Ha ha! Well, with the way I’m up all night working, I practically do sleep in the kitchen! (Writing this at 2:30 am, as we speak… ;-))

      Reply
  10. Elizabeth Roderick says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 12:07 pm

    I said WOW out loud twice when I saw the pictures. This is beautiful! You did a wonderful job.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:26 am

      Lol, that’s both funny and nice to hear all at the same time… 🙂 Thanks, Elizabeth!!

      Reply
  11. cassie bustamante says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 2:01 pm

    it’s amazing what a little (or a boatload!) of white paint can do! beautiful!!!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:27 am

      So true! Thanks Cassie!!

      Reply
  12. [email protected] says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 3:04 pm

    Lory!! It’s beautiful and so fresh! Seriously, I bet you just feel so calm and serene when you are are in there now. Love it so much! Congrats on such a beautiful space!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:28 am

      Thanks so much, Ashley! And yes, it does make me feel serene. Finally working my way through these comments and next I hope to read all the other One Room Challenge posts. I hope I get thorough them before the next challenge! 😉

      Reply
  13. Jen @ Noting Grace says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 3:29 pm

    Lory – this is gorgeous!!! It looks like a completely different house! We’ve painted kitchen cabinets and it’s a bear of a job, but this. This is a stunner!!!!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:30 am

      Thanks, Jen! Yes, I’m glad we went with a contractor for the cabinets. Fortunately we saved enough on the things we didn’t do to make that workable. I’m not the biggest DIY-er around (although I am thinking of painting some furniture in the New Year… ;-))

      Reply
  14. kim says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 4:15 pm

    LOVE the white and I know you are loving it!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:31 am

      I sure am, Kim… 🙂 Thanks! I’m looking forward to following your renovation too!!

      Reply
  15. Marilyn Mead says

    Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 10:14 pm

    Beautiful before and after. I would love either one but my favorite is the new kitchen because I love the happiness it brings to the room. Great choice and thank you for sharing.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:32 am

      Thanks so much, Marilyn! A bright white room is just such a happy place to be… 🙂

      Reply
  16. Emily of www.elevengables.com says

    Friday, November 11, 2016 at 9:43 am

    Lory! What a stunning transformation!! Well done! I love the trio of chandeliers. One thing I noticed right off the bat was the addition of the corbels and maybe a tad bigger island countertop? Perfect! All the glass doors are the perfect touch. Bravo!!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:34 am

      Thanks so much, Emily! Yes, actually the island counter is the same size and it always drove me crazy that the overhang had no corbels, nor is it deep enough for barstools. An odd thing, but the corbels made all the difference. Thanks for the kind words!

      Reply
  17. Lory says

    Friday, November 11, 2016 at 10:44 am

    Lory, your kitchen looks absolutely amazing. I love all the white!!! Have a GREAT weekend!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:35 am

      Thanks so much, Lory! (I now get such a kick out of seeing your notifications in my inbox with the same name spelling… ;-))

      Reply
  18. MARY-ANN (FROM CANADA!) says

    Friday, November 11, 2016 at 2:23 pm

    Lory, your new kitchen is so beautiful! You have done such a great job with absolutely everything! Enjoy!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:35 am

      Thank you, Mary-ann!!

      Reply
  19. Teresa says

    Friday, November 11, 2016 at 3:27 pm

    What a bright, clean, beautiful transformation! It is wonderful down to the very last detail! Thank you for sharing!!!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:36 am

      Thanks, Teresa! Thanks for visiting!!

      Reply
  20. Nancy @ Slightly Coastal says

    Friday, November 11, 2016 at 3:51 pm

    Lory! It looks so good! What a dramatic before and after. I’m sure walking in there every morning just makes you smile. Awesome job!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:37 am

      Thanks, Nancy, and yes it does make me smile!! So fun to share it with you! As you can see I’m behind in my replies, so I will be getting to your email one of these days… 😉

      Reply
  21. Iris Nacole says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 12:43 am

    Oh the power of paint! It’s amazing! Congratulations, and enjoy!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:37 am

      So true and thanks so much, Iris!!

      Reply
  22. Yvonne @ StoneGable says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 7:35 am

    Lory, what a gorgeous renovation! I love white kitchens and I so agree… everything goes with a white kitchen! Beautiful!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:38 am

      Thanks, Yvonne! I’ve always loved your kitchen, so it’s fun to have my own white kitchen now… 🙂

      Reply
  23. Donna says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 11:12 am

    Gorgeous, gorgeous kitchen! Love how you have mixed in some vintage accessories…

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:39 am

      Thanks, Donna! Yep, I feel like the vintage is what makes it me… 🙂

      Reply
  24. Debbie Kaplun says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 12:16 pm

    How did you paint your cabinets? I’m thinking about doing this but wonder did someone paint them or did you? Any suggestions would be appreciated! Stunning results!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:41 am

      Thanks, Debbie! We hired a contractor to paint them. I detail the process in the post before this. It’s linked above under “Painting the Existing Cabinets”. It’s certainly possible to DIY it but I didn’t want to take a chance given the quality of the cabinets.

      Reply
  25. Jan M says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 2:00 pm

    Looks wonderful! We have been struggling with the decision as to whether to paint our cherry cabinets white, but had never seen any “before” and “after” photos like yours. Husband thought it would be a travesty to paint them, but thanks to your photos his mind has been opened! Might I ask if you had them sprayed, or did you actually hand paint them your self?

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:43 am

      Thanks, Jan! We had them sprayed. The post before this one details the process a bit. It’s linked above under “Painting the Existing Cabinets”.

      Reply
  26. Oksana | FOXYOXIE.com says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 2:52 pm

    This space is seriously stunning. I’m going to include your makeover in my favorites roundup next week – it’s just too gorgeous! XO

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:44 am

      Thank you, Oksana, and thanks so much for sharing!!

      Reply
  27. Janet says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 3:26 pm

    Looks really great Lory and I’m glad that you went the route of not just ripping everything out!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:45 am

      Thanks, Janet! There really was no need to rip them out, so I’m glad too to have saved the money… 🙂 (And so is hubby!!)

      Reply
  28. Kathy Pelletier says

    Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 4:52 pm

    Lory, is the most beautiful kitchen I have seen recently .It is amazing how at one time cherry cainets were and are so beautiful but wow, what a difference the paint made. It just opened everything up and looks sooo wonderful.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:46 am

      Thanks, Kathy! Yes, a lot of people still love cherry and it can look beautiful. I think it just wasn’t done well here, but also, I simply always wanted the white… 🙂 Thanks for the kind words!!

      Reply
  29. Joanna says

    Sunday, November 13, 2016 at 11:57 am

    What a big difference paint makes. Your kitchen is so much lighter and brighter. I was wondering about painting your cupboards. Does the BM paint cover smoothly without being sprayed? Your accessories are the topping on the cake. If I didn’t just buy new upholstered chairs for my eating area I would absolutely go for those cane back chair. They add wonderful texture as well as that French feel to the room.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:49 am

      Thanks, Joanna!! Yes, I’m really happy with the chairs. I didn’t focus on them because we will be changing the table soon and styling at least the tabletop, so you can look forward to that down the road… 😉 As for the cabinets, the doors were sprayed and are much smoother than the sides which were painted by hand.

      Reply
  30. Shelley @ Calypso in the Country says

    Monday, November 14, 2016 at 3:47 pm

    Lory, I knew this reveal was going to be beautiful but it is even more stunning than I imagined! I love every detail from the amazing backsplash to the corbels on the island. Congratulations on a gorgeous transformation!
    Cheers! Shelley

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:50 am

      Thanks so much, Shelley! How fun it is to share the whole transformation with everyone here… 🙂

      Reply
  31. [email protected] Housepitality Designs says

    Wednesday, November 16, 2016 at 7:23 am

    Lory, what a most beautiful transformation! Thanks for the inspiration as if we decide to remain in our house and not build the downsized home, then the first thing that will be done is to renovate our 11 year old kitchen. Bravo…a job well done!!!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 2:52 am

      Thanks so much, Shirley! And I know that feeling of ‘should we stay or should we go’ all too well, because we went back and forth with it for a few years. When we moved into this house last year, I made it clear I wanted to re-do the kitchen before we agreed to buy… 😉 Good luck whichever way you decide to go!!

      Reply
  32. Courtney says

    Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 10:03 am

    Sooo sooo gorgeous! I love how it turned out!!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Thursday, November 17, 2016 at 10:27 am

      Thanks so much, Courtney!!

      Reply
  33. Geo55 says

    Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 4:29 pm

    WOW! A testament to the Power of Paint. An amazing transformation! Just beautiful.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 4:31 pm

      Thank you!!

      Reply
  34. Erin @ Lemons, Lavender, & Laundry says

    Monday, November 21, 2016 at 12:55 pm

    This is incredible! The kitchen is so much brighter with all the white components. I love the glass doors on the cabinets. Beautiful!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Monday, November 21, 2016 at 1:20 pm

      Thanks, Erin!

      Reply
  35. Monica @ MonicaWantsIt.com says

    Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at 5:56 pm

    Absolutely stunning! I love every single detail, and I am obsessed with that chinoiserie vase. Wish I could find an exact one like that!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at 7:16 pm

      Thanks, Monica!! The vase was purchased from The Enchanted Home’s online shop, but I linked to a similar one because she didn’t have any more in stock. You might still contact Tina or just keep watching the site because she often gets products back in. Funny thing is, since I ‘borrowed’ the vase from my den (where I have 2 on the fireplace), I’m planning to get the other one I linked to for my kitchen… 🙂

      Reply
  36. Beth Golden says

    Friday, December 23, 2016 at 9:19 am

    Hi, I had the same color cabinets and had a painter paint them white. They have since peeled even after having him come back and seal it with a polyurethane. How did you paint yours?

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Friday, December 23, 2016 at 10:26 am

      I hired a cabinet maker. So far no problems, but it’s only been a few months. Fingers crossed!!

      Reply
  37. Char says

    Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at 7:37 am

    Absolutely gorgeous! Planning on painting our oak cabinets white. Did you use the same white for the cabinets and the woodwork trim?

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at 9:11 am

      Thank you! No, the cabinets are BM White Dove and the woodwork trim is BM Simply White, a touch whiter.

      Reply
  38. Gina says

    Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at 6:04 pm

    Wow….An amazing job. Love it. Do you have a rough idea how much the transformation cost.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at 9:05 pm

      Thanks, Gina! I think the price would be dependent on where you live and what materials you choose.

      Reply
  39. Taylor says

    Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at 5:03 am

    While it looks nice, cherrywood is tons more money then painted white wood. The cherry has a much more ritzy , high class look.

    Reply
  40. elizabeth says

    Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at 11:55 am

    Lori I so enjoyed looking through the pictures of your kitchen! So beautiful! What an awesome transformation. I really like the ice bucket for the utensils! Great idea!

    Reply
  41. nancy says

    Sunday, March 18, 2018 at 7:04 am

    this is beautiful but I don’t see a reference for the floor?? Who made the floor?
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Sunday, March 18, 2018 at 10:12 am

      Thank you and thanks for the heads up that the link is no longer active. I’ve added an updated link in but you can find it at this affilaite link: https://rstyle.me/n/czwwi7b63g7

      Reply
  42. Carroll Nabors says

    Friday, March 30, 2018 at 10:55 am

    Maybe it’s just me but I liked it more before you painted the cabinets. I liked everything else you did, changing the back splash, island top and putting glass in some of the cabinet doors.
    I had white cabinets for years and finally changed them out for really dark wood ones. I guess I am just a fan of wood grain. Hope I have not offended you. Too much white is not my style.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Friday, March 30, 2018 at 12:31 pm

      Hi Carroll! I can appreciate that my taste and style are not for everyone. It made me so sad to come into the kitchen in the morning and have it be dark and depressing. I love dark wood grains when they’re balanced against light bright rooms, like a beautiful piece of old wood furniture with lovely patina, surrounded by crisp white linens. But a full room of dark wood is not for me (unless it’s a sun-drenched old English library). The point of the post was to illustrate the dramatic change. I’m sorry you didn’t like it, but thanks for reading anyway.

      Reply
  43. Peggy Z says

    Saturday, March 31, 2018 at 1:37 am

    Absolutely stunning!

    Reply
  44. Vicki says

    Monday, May 28, 2018 at 9:13 pm

    Color me green. Corner to corner, your kitchen is gorgeous.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10:43 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  45. Katie says

    Sunday, June 10, 2018 at 8:02 pm

    Love the kitchen and will be using BM White Dove for cabinets and currently looking at quartz for countertops. What is the brand of the quartz/name of quartz used? Thanks! So beautiful!!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Monday, June 11, 2018 at 12:40 am

      Thank you! I’m not sure. I picked a slab from a marble yard, rather than picking from a sample in a showroom. But I do think it was a calacatta quartz.

      Reply
  46. C. Coquette says

    Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at 11:20 am

    Lory,

    Thank you so much for this post as I am right in the middle of deciding what in the world to do with my narrow galley kitchen. Now I can clearly see what needs to be done and I don’t have to be scared of painting my cabinets!!! We also have a dark spot in the corner of the kitchen that never seems to get enough light. I am going to download/save this post for my future point of reference.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at 11:46 am

      Thank you! I am so glad to hear you found it helpful!!

      Reply
  47. Cecilia from Georgia says

    Thursday, December 27, 2018 at 6:51 pm

    Hi Lory, I wish you and your family a wonderful 2019! I just looked at your Home tour from the home you lived in for 20 years and I must say it was magnificent! I have very similar custom built maple cabinets and have been thinking about painting them. I have thought that a white glaze might get rid of the awful yellow tones in my cabinets (they are definitely dated) or would it be best to just go ahead and paint them. I see you painted the kitchen cabinets in your new home and they turned out so pretty. OK, my question is this– why did you paint the new cabinets and not the ones in the old house? My house is an open floor plan so I would have to do the same treatment to the cabinets across the room that is our living room area. I have oak hardwood floors so there is a lot of wood in the house. My counter top is a dark exotic granite and I love it — your black counter top works beautifully with your white cabinets. My house is slowly evolving into a English countryside style so I don’t like the golden maple in the cabinets. I would appreciate any thoughts you may have about the direction to go in with these cabinets!! Love your blog and look forward to seeing what you have for the new year! Oh gosh, this is so long and if I am out of boundaries for asking, please excuse me.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Friday, December 28, 2018 at 7:13 pm

      Hi Cecilia! Thank you for your lovely comment and I’m delighted to respond. I would probably go ahead and paint them white. The reason we didn’t paint the cabinets in my old house is because we moved 3 years ago and knew for a while we’d be moving. They were fully custom cabinets of great quality that we put in 20 years ago. It seemed pointless to paint them when we knew we were selling and figured it was up to the new owner to decide if they wanted the maple or not. Interestingly, I wanted a white kitchen when we first renovated that kitchen all that time ago, but our contractor talked me out of it saying white would be dated. Here we are 20 years later and I still love white. So… my opinion is… paint them white! 🙂

      Reply
  48. Myrna says

    Monday, February 4, 2019 at 12:48 am

    Lory, it’s absolutely beautiful. What a difference. I love white kitchens and walls. All you have to do is change accessories and get a whole new look. I often refer to your style as ‘quiet elegance’ You never fail to impress.

    Reply
  49. Digna Gantt says

    Friday, February 15, 2019 at 7:17 am

    I enjoyed the post about the dramatic kitchen renovation, and decided to subscribe. However, the e-mail which you were supposed to send me to finalize the subscription never appeared in my inbox. How should I proceed? Thank you

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Friday, February 15, 2019 at 9:31 am

      Thank you for the kind words and for your interest! Did you check your spam folder? Can you also tell me which box you used to subscribe, so I can try to fix it? If all else fails, I would try using a different box. If you didn’t already use it, try the bar at the very top of the website. Please let me know if you still have a problem. Thanks!!

      Reply
  50. Barbara C. says

    Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at 9:12 am

    Lovely. Probably my favorite room in your home!

    Reply
  51. Margo says

    Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at 3:24 pm

    I love the kitchen. What I like best is that it’s reasonable, not so over the top that you can’t use some of these ideas. We are planning to paint our cabinets so I’m wondering if this paint color is a pure white or more of a creamy white with a yellow undertone? We had the same backsplash in our former home and loved it. I would like to do the marble again here. In the 90’s I had all brass hardware. If I decide to change that as well I’ll be keeping the current ones in a box in case I’m still alive when brassis out of favor once again!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at 8:10 pm

      Thank you and lol about the box of hardware! In my case, I actually always love brass, so it would be my choice even if it wasn’t on trend. As for the paint, the type of paint is called muralo and the color we used is White Dove. I wouldn’t really call it cream because the undertones are cooler than that, but it isn’t an optic white either.

      Reply
  52. Susan says

    Thursday, September 26, 2019 at 5:45 pm

    So nice to see a beautiful make-over that didn’t require major construction or tons of cash. Well done!

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 11:21 am

      Thank you so much, Susan!!

      Reply
  53. Sara Ross says

    Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 7:57 am

    What a beautiful change! Makes me see that a few changes without replacing the appliances can make a huge difference. Where did you get your glass doors? I am having a hard time finding them online. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Lory at Designthusiasm says

      Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 11:20 am

      Thank you, Sara!! I actually used the original doors and just had a carpenter add the glass.

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CONNECT

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

• CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE •

SUBSCRIBE SIDEBAR

I’m Lory, the creator of Designthusiasm, a blog that celebrates beautiful design! From home decor to tablescapes, lifestyle to travel photography, this blog was developed as an outlet for my varied design passions. My style can be described as modern French Country, with a respect for the past and the quality that comes with it. For more of my story see my ABOUT page.
Thanks for visiting!

• Shop My Favorites •

Designthusiasm Shop | Shop my favorites | Shopping guide for modern French Country style
Designthusiasm Shop - Modern French Country - Home Decor - Shop My Home

• Shop My Amazon Shop •

The Designthusiasm Amazon Shop

Join Us on Instagram

designthusiasm

• Designer | Stylist | BHG Stylemaker •
• Modern French Country Decor •
✉️[email protected]
⬇️Subscribe for my FREE eBook

Instagram post 2191507211539309998_231271655 Before there was pink, my favorite tree was the white tree, and I think this may still be my fave! I’ve fallen so in love with winter peonies and they work so well with my pale tree and blush pink baubles. Throw in a bit of gold and you’re good to go!⁣
Instagram post 2190058480484768860_231271655 Happy Monday everyone! I’m so excited to be hosting a holiday entertaining blog hop today. (Tap the image for the other participants.) Pop over to the blog to see more of my tablescape featuring some gorgeous tableware from @vagabondhouse!! You can also swipe up from my stories because the pieces are just stunning and I know you’re going to want them!!
Instagram post 2189446347550348140_231271655 So, last year I did this! I actually went with a pink tree!! I just had to. I saw several shops that had pink trees and they were calling my name. I just had to have one. At one point I was thinking of going just green and white for the season, but no, I needed to add some cheery color and rosy pink it was! How do I follow up a palette like that this year?⁣ Any suggestions?
Instagram post 2187883518064038744_231271655 There are some people who are really masters at seasonal decorating and my friend Angie @angieswreathsandmore is one of those people. If you look at her page at any time of year it’s quite beautiful, but at holiday time it’s truly inspiring! I’m delighted to share her today, so please check out her awesome gallery!
Instagram post 2186534532748393083_231271655 I am so excited to be a #fabfitfunpartner and I have a fabulous opportunity to share with you! I just received my winter #fabfitfun box and I love that it focuses on little luxuries, treating yourself kindly and taking care of yourself. From a soothing and delightful candle to the indulgence of bath salts, skin serum, a clay mask and so much more, I’m going to be spending a lot of spa time at home!! If you’d like to join in the fun and get your own box, be sure to use my coupon code “LORY” for $10 off your first box.

And did you know @FabFitFun partners with charities each season and female founded companies? For more information you can find them at www.fabfitfun.com or check out my stories for a swipe up link.

Now tag a friend who you think needs this box.  I tag @shabbyfufu.
#ad #selfcare #treatyourself #selfcarefirst #selflove #womensupportingwomen
Instagram post 2185708891229295018_231271655 As much as I love gift giving, my favorite type of gift is a curated grouping of related items that work together in a theme. Extra points if it’s presented in a cute container. Today on the blog I’m sharing ideas for exactly this type of thematic gift, all well priced from #BHGatWalmart. Be sure to check it out!  #ad @BHGLiveBetter
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2019 · glam theme by Restored 316

Copyright © 2019 designthusiasm

SUBSCRIBE and receive my FREE eBook "A Year of Seasonal Decor"
Get my FREE ebook, "A Year of Seasonal Decor” as a thank you for subscribing to my newsletter!
CELEBRATING MODERN FRENCH STYLE AND CASUAL ELEGANCE IN YOUR HOME...
By subscribing to our newsletter, you consent to receive new post updates and occasional promotions related to Designthusiasm content. We will never share your information with third parties and will protect it in accordance with our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Get my FREE ebook, "A Year of Seasonal Decor", as a thank you for subscribing to my newsletter!
CELEBRATING MODERN FRENCH STYLE AND CASUAL ELEGANCE IN YOUR HOME...
By subscribing to our newsletter, you consent to receive new post updates and occasional promotions related to Designthusiasm content. We will never share your information with third parties and will protect it in accordance with our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
SUBSCRIBE and receive my FREE eBook "A Year of Seasonal Decor"