Kitchen design ideas needed!

Teresa K
by Teresa K
Pantry
Eating area
  15 answers
  • Teresa, What kind of ideas are you looking for? Are you planning on just re-desiging or renovating? If you are going the re-designing route (working with what you already have), I would suggest you first address the clutter. You have a lovely color on the wall, you could add wainscoat at the bottom to highlight the kitchen character. I am seeing less floral prints and more modern wall treatment in this area. Not sure if the bakers rack is really helping you with organization here, I would suggest your replace with more concealed shelving. A nice backsplash to match your tiffany bar light would be a great idea as well. Hope this helps!
  • Teresa K Teresa K on Jul 25, 2011
    I just wanted to get the pictures up....I know the clutter doesn't add to the ambiance. We're ok with the color and right now, can't afford to change the layout. The white cabinet ideas is a good one. I was thinking removing the pantry and bakers rack and adding another row of top cabinets across and maybe a built in shelf/desk (for kids to do homework). Thanks for your input!
  • No problem Teresa, I love to help solve space problems. Hope to see some AFTER pictures soon.
  • Hi Teresa! Are you looking to replace cabinetry, or countertops or add or replace a backsplash? If we could see your cabinets and the footprint we might have a few ideas!! Often times we have clients that we complete a kitchen "facelift" for; we keep the existing cabinetry and do a faux finish on it (a vintage-looking white or cream could be appropriate) and then add some cabinetry (like a desk) and it's finished to match the new look of the existing cabinets! If you pair that cabinetry trick with some new countertops, and even a new backsplash, it looks like an expensive kitchen remodel for a fraction of the cost! Here are some before and afters of kitchen facelifts for ideas/examples: Marietta Creative Kitchen Remodel - http://bit.ly/f3OEKH / Dramatic Kitchen With Accent Island - http://bit.ly/pyOCdJ
  • Leslie D Leslie D on Jul 25, 2011
    I just love the drill on the surface to the left of the table. Makes me feel right at home, and I'm comforted knowing that we are not the only folks who seemingly use tools as decor!
  • Kitchen + Bath Artisans Kitchen + Bath Artisans on Jul 25, 2011
    Hi Teressa, I think you have the right idea to extend the cabinetry into the corner. I like the idea of creating a desk space for your children to do their homework. Also, I would extend the wall units to include an open shelf area so that this area will not appear to be heavy. I would also take into consideration under cabinet lighting that is dimmable. LED lights are great as they do not create heat and will last a long time without having to service the fixtures. This would be a nice opportunity to use a different counter top i.e; wood or stone if you don't already have it in the space. Feel free to ask more questions. Good luck!
  • Teresa, if you'd like a quick and fun kitchen decor makeover, I'd love to help you out. I'm a Willow House design consultant, and my goal is to help you incorporate beautiful, multi-functional decor into your home. I can help you update your style within your budget, especially if you'd like to bring some friends in on the fun. In August, all of my party hosts receive double host dollars -- meaning more free products! For example, a $500 party would get you $200 in free products, and a $1000 party would get you $500 in free products -- plus much more! Contact me at http://suzannejackson.willowhouse.com/Contact for more information.
  • This is an old kitchen that had knotty pine cabinets. The boxes were good, we puttied the groves where the boards met & had new doors & pantries made & painted an almond color. The tile & walls & trim are all versions of the same color to create a calm monochromatic scheme.
  • Teresa, your kitchen reminded me of the above project, I thought the photos might help.
  • Teresa K Teresa K on Jul 26, 2011
    Replacing cabinets at this point isn't an option cost wise. Definitely refinishing has been a thought. I'd LOVE an island but really don't have the space. I believe kitchen dimensions are 15 X12 or so. Thank you so much for all the wonderful ideas. I'm definitely liking the white color that was suggested. Anyone know a good tutorial for refinishing or painting with a glaze like the pros have?
  • Teresa K Teresa K on Jul 26, 2011
    I know right??? I put all the tools down in the basement and they mysteriously reappear. Who knew tools could walk??
  • Steve D Steve D on Jul 28, 2011
    See Les, I told you the tools walked on their own :)
  • Ours walk away also (adult son on site). A 30 minute project takes poor Greg all afternoon, looking for tools!
  • Teresa K Teresa K on Jul 29, 2011
    My stepson (20) "borrows" his dad's tools all the time. I'd like to see the stash he's got now! Maybe we need to implement a "tool" library.
  • Dorothy Durbin Dorothy Durbin on Jul 29, 2011
    In the breakfast area I would recover the chairs in a new fabric. Something durable that is treated for stain resistance. So many fabrics to choose from I can't make a suggestion at the moment. Maybe something with an interesting geometric print. The window treatments are dated. If you are painting the kitchen cabinets white, I would install White, Faux wood 2" slat blinds on the windows. They look a bit like plantation shutters and are approx. $28.00 a window. Lowe's has a great selection. Easy to install. Why is the table cloth on the table? If the table is in poor condition consider painting it a coordinating color. Wood chairs with a painted round table look awesome. Dorothy Durbin, Interior Designer. P.S. Let me know how the redo is coming along. Thanks!