So, it’s definitely time for another kitchen update. The end of summer and the start of the school year are always hectic here, but I’m ready to get back on track. I’m thrilled with how the kitchen is shaping up—I love it so far.
When I last shared progress, the grout and faucet were installed and the range hood was being fitted. The kitchen is now fully functional, which feels great.
Fully functioning doesn’t mean finished, though.
Wah.
We have what we need for everyday cooking: our existing stove, a new range hood, a new sink and faucet, quartz counters and subway tile, and a couple of new cabinets. Still, a few finishing touches remain.
The cabinets won’t be painted until October, which is a long wait, but it will be extra exciting when it finally happens.
If you need a reminder of the cabinet plans, you can view the kitchen inspiration board and some of the photos that helped shape the design. This week the correct shaker-style drawer fronts will be installed (the first ones were the wrong size). I’ll share more about the freestanding island in my next post so you can see the starting point we’re working with. We did some wall repair this week, and next we’ll finish painting and install the new wall sconces.
We’re also trying to source hardware that fits the existing holes so we don’t have to fill and re-drill. Our builder used a nonstandard size for the pulls, so finding matching hardware has required extra searching. I did find some unique knobs I’m excited about.
Most of our recent focus has been on organization. In a smaller-scale remodel, you still need to figure out how to create function within existing elements rather than designing everything from scratch.
Fortunately, two new banks of drawers will significantly improve functionality. I love drawers—lower cabinets can be awkward because you have to crouch and look around to find things. Whenever possible, I prefer drawers over lower cabinetry. In this remodel I was able to add two banks of drawers by rearranging a section of cabinetry, which I’m thrilled about. I plan to use drawers for plates, bowls, cups and spices. We still have some original cabinets to work with, so I’m organizing those as effectively as I can.
I removed several upper cabinets earlier in the project, and I’m so happy with how open and bright the space feels when we’re baking and cooking. Removing the uppers also brought more light to the countertops, which is a big plus.
Even though the cabinets aren’t painted yet, we’ve been experimenting with the most efficient ways to organize drawers and cabinets. We’ll empty everything for painting when the time comes, but for now I’m okay with temporary arrangements. I found bamboo silverware inserts at TJ Maxx that make the drawers look neater and a bit more refined.
I also like everyday items on display. I call it “pretty clutter.” I don’t mind some things being out if they’re attractive and useful—I’m not a minimalist who needs clear counters. A working kitchen shows its personality when a toaster, knives, wooden spoons, coffee maker and pans are visible, as long as the items are tidy and pleasing to the eye. If something isn’t attractive enough for display, it goes in a cabinet.
I’m planning around what we use daily and finding budget-friendly ways to make it both functional and attractive. I avoid excessive decorative clutter, preferring a few pretty dishes, glass jars, wire baskets and natural containers to bring warmth and cohesion to the space.
Remember the little dish cabinet I found at HomeGoods? I ended up using it in the kitchen after all. Once it was in place I realized my white rattan chairs could also fit there, and that sealed the decision. I like how it looks and functions in the space.
I’ll publish a full kitchen organization post once the painting and final touches are complete, showing how we make the most of every drawer, cabinet and the pantry. For now, you can see we’re making steady progress—hallelujah for progress. The end will come!
Sneak peek: I shared a pantry progress update on Instagram a while back.
Thanks for following along! If you’re new here, you might also enjoy my recent dining room and living room updates.