Design Dilemma: My Kitchen Needs Help!
See how you can update a kitchen with new countertops, light fixtures, paint and hardware
When we received this Design Dilemma from Houzz user Christina (including this snapshot from move-in day) I understood why she was looking for help. As it is for many homeowners, a full remodel isn't in the cards right now. And she's been living with this kitchen (minus the moving boxes, of course) for five years out of fear of spending money on little fixes that she might not like.
Christina is sick of the wallpaper border, mauve blinds and pink countertop. She would love a black-and-white kitchen with a modern, vintage-eclectic style. But "I'm debating on where I start," she writes. "What do I invest in first, great countertops (black)?? ANY advice is appreciated. My poor home needs help! "
Okay, Christine, it's time to plunge headfirst into this facelift. There are a lot of ways to get big bang for your buck without a full kitchen remodel, especially if you're open to new countertops. Read on for 8 quick fixes you can start on now.
See Christine's original question
Christina is sick of the wallpaper border, mauve blinds and pink countertop. She would love a black-and-white kitchen with a modern, vintage-eclectic style. But "I'm debating on where I start," she writes. "What do I invest in first, great countertops (black)?? ANY advice is appreciated. My poor home needs help! "
Okay, Christine, it's time to plunge headfirst into this facelift. There are a lot of ways to get big bang for your buck without a full kitchen remodel, especially if you're open to new countertops. Read on for 8 quick fixes you can start on now.
See Christine's original question
No. 1. The biggest liabilities in this kitchen are things that can be fixed good old DIY style: Get rid of that wallpaper border and pink window treatments that match the countertops.
No. 2. You have classic white kitchen cabinets, and that's a plus. Even if they're not your chosen style (raised panel vs. Shaker) or material (I'm guessing thermafoil instead of wood). Who cares? They're white! I can guess that there are lot of people out there currently bemoaning their '70s honey oak cabinets as we speak.
No. 3. Now, change that countertop. Go for a classic honed black granite rather than a polished granite.
No. 4. And while you're at it, paint the walls. Offset the crisp white cabinets with a deep neutral such as a taupe like this, or go for a light gray/blue. Whatever you do, don't stick with white walls: It can look drab when you're looking for a change.
No. 3. Now, change that countertop. Go for a classic honed black granite rather than a polished granite.
No. 4. And while you're at it, paint the walls. Offset the crisp white cabinets with a deep neutral such as a taupe like this, or go for a light gray/blue. Whatever you do, don't stick with white walls: It can look drab when you're looking for a change.
Absolute Black Honed
Black and white never goes out of style. If you want a classic black- and-white kitchen, go ahead and change out those countertops!
Medea Corian
If granite isn't in the cards budget-wise, consider an alternative like this terrific charcoal gray color called Medea from Corian.
No. 5 and 6. Change out that light fixture for something more vintage and architecturally interesting. And add a cute vintage chair to that naked looking desk area in your kitchen. Accessories like lighting and chairs can add so much style. Don't underestimate the power of a single well-chosen accessory.
Tolix Café Chair
These timeless vintage Tolix chairs are the perfect complement to a black-and-white kitchen. If you're afraid of it going out of style, don't be. The French-bistro look has been around for a very long time and doesn't appear to be going out of favor anytime soon.
Wilamette 6 Pendant Light
Schoolhouse pendants are a perfect accent. Go for a bronze finish to add drama as opposed to a silver finish like chrome or polished nickel.
Harmon Pendant | Restoration Hardware
If you want a slightly different look, there are lots of pendants out there, and each one will slightly change the look of your kitchen. From schoolhouse vintage, to industrial modern ...
Here is another fabulous black and white kitchen to encourage you!
No. 7. Change out the hardware for a fresher look.
No. 7. Change out the hardware for a fresher look.
No. 8. Add a subway tile backsplash. This suggestion requires a bit more commitment: Hire someone to install a classic white subway tile backsplash. White subway tile is the cheapest thrill out there. It can be ridiculously inexpensive, and installing tile is actually easy. I've done it myself so I'm telling the truth here (though my husband did do the cutting of the few tiles that needed it). Go for white subway tile with white grout, or ...
Merola Metro Chelsea Subway White
Subway tile can come in a few different sizes, but the classic size is 3x6. If you want to mix it up a bit go for a 2x6 for a different look. I hope you find these suggestions helpful and that we see your "After" pictures on Houzz soon!
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Next:
See Christine's original question and join the discussion
Post your own photo and Design Dilemma!
Browse thousands of kitchen photos
More: 15 Quick Kitchen Fixes