Quick Kitchen Makeover

When my husband and I bought our house, we knew the kitchen would be an investment.

It's not that it needs a huge overhaul, it just needs some updates. A full renovation however, is not in our budget right now. In the mean time, there were a few things I've done to at least freshen it up. It always amazes me how much of a difference a simple coat of paint can make.

I painted the walls, previously a buttery yellow, White Chocolate by Benjamin Moore. Ideally, I would love to replace the cabinets, which are currently darker hardwood, with nice white cabinets and a chop block counter top (which would look lovely with a farm sink!). But, to be honest, I don't see the point. I have solid wood cabinets. They may be dated, but they're good, quality cabinetry. I've been toying with the idea of refinishing them and painting them myself. With a fresh coat of paint and some new hardware they could look like a million bucks!

Because I don't have a lot of counter space, replacing the counter with chop block counter from IKEA wouldn't be that expensive. Adding a simple white subway tile back splash would also be fairly cost efficient.

Anyway, until I can afford a kitchen overhaul, here is one quick kitchen makeover that has really helped me out, and didn't break the bank.

This was previously a blank wall (I know right! Hello wasted space.) The previous owner had a cafe set here, but it was just so impractical for us. I, for a long time, had a white armoire here as a pantry. It worked, but it wasn't the most efficient use of the space.

Then I got my hands on this old barn cabinet (for free). It was from a family friends barn and it was previously a mauve colour. My husband fitted a huge slab of wood on top and finished it off, thus creating my bakers table. I painted it to match my walls, but kept the inside the original wood. It's absolutely perfect. It's a huge workspace, perfect for any baking that I do. It's extra counter space and it houses my small appliances and pantry items. It's also really handy when I'm entertaining and can double as a bar or buffet.

Two simple IKEA shelves (which I actually got out of the As-Is section for $10 each), house my collection of cake pedestals as well as simple everyday things like my tea set. Because I don't have much counter space, I have no room to display any items. It just adds clutter. But this little space gives me the chance to display a few choice pieces. The display changes with the seasons, or when I'm in the mood for something different. Swapping a few items out is an instant mini makeover.

I use a flower frog to hold my recipe cards, which sits on the shelf in front of me at eye level.

Yesterday, I redid my display. I kept only the basics, mainly glass and white pieces, to keep it simple. I planted white hyacinth bulbs in an old ironstone serving dish to add a bit of freshness and colour to the space. It's also a lovely reminder that despite the snow, spring is soon on it's way.