HHello! There’s an exciting update in our kitchen: the cabinets are finally being delivered and installed. I don’t have photos of the install yet because the work started after this post was drafted, but I’m absolutely thrilled—doing a happy dance over here!
Right now the room shows dark blue walls and a natural wood tongue-and-groove ceiling. The blue is only primer, and the wood ceiling will be painted white. Both elements have temporarily thrown off the look I’m aiming for, so I’m eager to get everything painted and finished. The team expects the kitchen to be complete by December 21, and I’m counting down until then.
Our kitchen is small, so every choice required careful thought. In a compact galley layout, each item has a big visual impact, so we considered how every piece would work together in a limited space. This made the design decisions more deliberate than they might be in a larger room.
Although we wanted a fresh, clean feeling, we avoided playing it safe or becoming boring. The plan gives the kitchen a clear personality without relying on dramatic, bold patterns that could overwhelm or visually close in the space. Instead, we’re creating interest with subtle contrasts, varied shapes, and textured finishes.
The architectural updates—arched openings, the round window, new lighting, and other thoughtful details—add character to the room’s shell. With those elements in place, the rest of the space can remain simple and edited, while personality can be introduced seasonally through items that are easy to swap: plants, rugs, dishware, cutting boards, and linens.
I love changing a room’s look, so I’m excited about the flexibility this kitchen will offer for years to come. The design board shows many of the elements together, though it doesn’t capture every nuance. More will be revealed as the project progresses, and I’ll answer questions along the way.
I’ll share the layout and explain the reasoning behind each choice in future updates. There are a few sources noted below for those who are curious, and I’ll publish a full, detailed source list once the kitchen is finished. It’s been years since I had new appliances—our last remodel kept the same stove and refrigerator—so having new KitchenAid appliances installed will be a real treat. I’ll include model numbers and full sourcing when the project is complete.
We can already feel this kitchen transforming the home in all the ways we hoped.
Kitchen Elements Sources:
Wall color: Simply White by Benjamin Moore / Dutch door color: Blue Note by Benjamin Moore / Cobalt and brass wall lights / Farmhouse sink / Brass faucet / Hardware: crystal knobs, small knobs, drawer pulls, round knobs / Plaid kitchen towel (set of two) / Appliances: KitchenAid refrigerator and stove / Quartz countertops: Daltile / Tile floors: Daltile (Haze color)
A more detailed source list will be provided when the kitchen is complete.