3 painted kitchens that prove not every renovation is a total gut out
I started thinking about some of the smallest things with a big impact that people can do to change their spaces. At this point in our careers, we’re used to showing you the big projects. We do a lot of major changes around here, from entirely new builds and total gut outs, but we also take on the smaller ones, which are often just as satisfying. Sometimes, it’s really fun to get back to the basics when it comes to projects that are worth it. One of those prime examples is painting cabinets. We’ve experienced situations with clients where the shape or layout of a kitchen is already working, and it doesn’t make sense to rip out perfectly good cabinets for a great change. Today, we’re sharing 3 painted kitchens that prove not every renovation is a total gut-out.
1. 3 Painted Kitchens That Prove Not Every Renovation Is a Total Gut Out: The Blue House
The blue house tour! We love clients who aren’t afraid of color. This one is a testimony to gorgeous shapes still playing well within the space. These cabinets were such a classic shape, that switching out the backsplash, countertops and lights were enough for a much-needed update. We also changed out that beautiful but sometimes heavy trim in a few places, which made it seem lighter. How can we not adore that blue color? {Be sure to click over to see more of our fave changes – with their entryway + bathroom. And don’t miss their basement reno, here!}
before
after
We just love the way these changes opened up the space. The sipler patterns feel so calming and intentional.
So many amazing changes here!
Bonus track: check out their outside makeover + basement tour, here. We adore our return clients!
2. 3 Painted Kitchens That Prove Not Every Renovation Is a Total Gut Out: A Colorful Kitchen Makeover
And speaking of color… This one was a fun addition {and throwback!} with all those little details. Before, these cabinets were pretty dark and looming. The fresh coat + other changes really helped them keep their layout with an entirely new look.
Before, the varying heights of the cabinets in such a dark color felt overwhelming for the space.
And check out their dining area. It’s crazy what some wallpaper and new furniture can do for a space.
Again, with our fabulous return clients. You’ll probably remember their bathroom, here. + their daughter’s space here.
3. 3 Painted Kitchens That Prove Not Every Renovation Is a Total Gut Out: The Wilson Pike House
Classic white is always a classic choice, and since these cabinets were a bit orange and leaning towards the Tuscany era of early-2000s design {but still in great shape}, our clients opted to paint them. Once again, we were happy to install a fresh countertop and backsplash! Check out the entire tour {it includes their bathroom + study area + dining room, too!} here. Pssst… That backsplash, by the way, is my all-time fave. A sister tile to our own fireplaces in our home a-la Jeffrey Court.
before
Bonus shot: still drooling over these gorgeous pendants from Kichler. They added so much character!
• Bonus: Lundy Pass House – Phase 2
Click over to see the full changeover for these spaces, since we shared it last week and love how it turned out. But one of our favorite things is this changeover in their kitchen. She was never thrilled with the pink undertone in the “wood”, so we were happy to help them come up with a fun solution.
We changed the upper cabinets, lighting + the floors below to simplify things visually. And we love the way this turned out!
Switching out the wall color helped, too!
Just a few Tips:
• Our one recommendation if you want to paint your cabinets? Leave it to the professionals. We’ve taken on a lot of DIY over the years. But to have it done right, doors need to be removed, everything stripped + sanded, holes painted, and then primed. Delicate care is given to these finishes, and it really helps to have someone who knows what they’re doing.
• Get a couple of quotes from various companies and learn about all the steps they take to ensure a successful process. Sure, painted cabinets can be a little pricier when left to the professionals, but they’re always worth it for the peace of mind that comes with having them done right. Basically, as a professional, there are two things I will never do again in my life: Hanging wallpaper and painting cabinets. Can I do it? Absolutely. It’s the issue of whether it’s worth it. So make sure you can answer those questions for yourself before taking on the project.
• Hand-painted finish vs. sprayed: Ask about the difference there, too. Finishes can become scratched over time. Accidents happen. One thing to consider is that while the spray-on finish is smooth, a hand-painted one makes touch-ups easier. Both are beautiful, of course, but consider what will be easier to repair in the future, too.
We hope this has been a helpful perspective! We’ve seen many projects in our day, and we know the ins and outs behind the scenes, as well as the correct order of things. But sometimes, not every renovation is a total gut-out, and these kitchens prove that!
We love a good renovation, no matter what it looks like for our clients. We also love a happy ending for happy kitchens. Be sure to check out more of our work, here!
Pssst: We love working with amazing clients in phases to create a home that works hard for them! Bonus when it feels like a real escape. Did you know that we take on clients both locally and nationally? From new builds to changes in paint color… Contact us for whatever you need. And if you need a real estate agent, we have you covered there too! Be sure to check out our portfolio + more of what we do here. Contact us here for design work. …And for real estate, here.
