Ever since we purchased our home at the end of 2017 I’ve been dreaming of a kitchen renovation. Over the years the vision for what I hoped for it to look liked has changed but the one thing I’ve always wanted was a welcoming space that felt warm and easy to cook in. Thank the Lord we actually went through with this renovation because in the demolition process we found out we had a TON of wood rot in the subfloor throughout the entire kitchen (as well as two of the other bathrooms) and being able to replace it without having to live in the home was such a blessing. Now we know that our subfloor & floor is secure for many more years to come!
I tried for the longest time to think of a different layout for the kitchen but could never come up with one that wouldn’t cost us an incredible amount of money. For instance one of my biggest design challenges is that behind the stove is our second stairwell so that presented some challenges with even thinking of changing the layout of appliances. We ended up keeping the same footprint of the kitchen but making it work better for us longterm. We hid the microwave in the “pantry” area next to the refrigerator and that gave a lot more space above the stove for cooking. We were also able to demo out the soffit’s throughout the room and that gave some much needed height and cabinet space back, it’s been a dream!
Some might think I’m crazy, but I actually really liked the black slate flooring before, just not the texture/application of it. It was incredibly patchy and rough and an absolute nightmare to keep clean. When designing the new kitchen space I knew I wanted something that felt timeless but would also work with the hardwood flooring throughout the rest of our home. When I landed on the 24×24 pattern my contractor kind of looked at me sideways wondering if (A) I would actually like it when it was finished and (B) If it would age well with the home. Personally, I love it and have received nothing but compliments and I do think with it being a larger tile vs a smaller 12×12 pattern it keeps it less busy and more timeless.
Kitchen Details
- Cabinets: Oxford Toffee & Oxford White
- Countertops: Taj Mahal Quartz (polished)
- Pendant Light above sink: linked here
- Sink: linked here
- Faucet: linked here
- Cabinet Hardware*: Hampton Back Plate 1″x3″, Luxe Ball Knob, Butler Pull 8″
*All of my hardware is in a discontinued finish (Aged Brass Lacquered) - Flooring: Luxe Dune Matte Porcelain Tile & Luxe Sand Matte Porcelain Tile in 24 inch squares
- Wall & Shiplap Color: Farrow & Ball Wimborne White
- Trim Color: Taupe of the Morning Sherwin Williams
- Stove: GE – 30 in Slide-In Electric Convection Range with Air Fry Tray
- Dishwasher: KITCHENAID – 24 in. Top Control Built-In Tall Tub 44 dBA Dishwasher in PrintShield Stainless with 360 MaxJets 3rd Rack
- Fridge: Frigidaire Professional 36inch Counter Depth
- Wall Shelves: linked here
- Decorative/Other items you see: linked here.
I knew I wanted warmth in the kitchen but didn’t want it to feel to cave-like as the back area near the stairwell doesn’t get a ton of natural light. I feel that the combination of wooden lower cabinets mixed with white uppers really brings in the most delicate balance of warmth and brightness. We also added shiplap as the “backsplash” wall covering to the kitchen to bring an additional sense of cottage comfort.
One of my most favorite details is the backsplash behind the kitchen sink.
This was a hands down non-negotiable for me and another where my contractor said they had some learning lessons if they do this again with another client. I found some inspiration photos on Pinterest and sent them as inspiration and came up with a simple yet timeless design to tie in the countertop edging as well as to protect the shiplap from water splashes. It really elevates the space and adds additional depth and beauty. My other higher budget item was actually the hardware on the cabinets. I knew I wanted something that would last/hold up to years and years of touching without being replaced. I also knew I wanted backplates on the cabinets with the ball pulls to give it more of a design element and add to the cottage/cozy feel of the kitchen.
I am so beyond grateful that we were able to do this kitchen renovation.
It is not lost on me the blessing that it is to elevate this area to one that reflects more of my personal style but also feels like a reward.
