House & Home
Finally, we will be starting construction on our kitchen in just a few weeks. After a long process slowed by limited time and budget, the project is finally happening. I’m thrilled to say that by the holidays this year we hope to be enjoying our new kitchen.
Below are the inspiration photos that shaped our decisions and helped clarify the vibe we’re aiming for. None of these images contains every element we chose, but each reflects a similar mood that informed our selections. Some of these have appeared in past posts, since they’ve lived in my kitchen inspiration files for a while.
Zoldan Interiors – High Gloss Magazine
I wrestled over each decision for months (and there are still final choices to make). I love many kitchen styles, so narrowing it down was hard. Since we can only have one kitchen here, I focused on elements that fit our style, layout, and budget.
The first real decision came months ago, when we moved in: a Dutch door in the kitchen. I’ve long dreamed of a Dutch door, and because it brings a cottage, friendly vibe, the rest of the kitchen naturally followed from that mood. Once I committed to a specific color for the door, many other design decisions became easier.
In my previous kitchen, the floors drove most of the design choices. With distinct natural hickory flooring, the dark cabinets provided contrast and grounding. That balance—dark lower cabinets with white walls, counters, upper cabinets, and an island—felt right for that space. You can find my previous kitchen reveal and sources if you want to see the full transformation.
Patti Wagner
For this new kitchen, we’re planning white cabinets mixed with darker accents. Choosing white isn’t a reaction against darker trends; it’s a strategic decision. White cabinets provide a clean backdrop that complements the floors we want, the hardware, and a boldly colored Dutch door. White will let the door be the feature while keeping the overall feel fresh and adaptable.
Southern Living
As we collected inspiration photos, a consistent mood emerged even though materials and cabinet colors varied. Each kitchen felt simple, relaxed, and inviting—qualities we wanted to capture.
Our kitchen mood: simple, homey, relaxed, inviting, classic, timeless.
That mood guided every decision. I wanted a kitchen that’s easy to update seasonally, with a neutral backdrop allowing quick changes like a new rug or different accessories. I pictured a classic lake-house vibe—stylish and personable without being overly pristine or fussy. The goal was durability and timelessness so future owners would also find it appealing.
Bungalow Magazine / Photo by Jared Tseng
House Beautiful
Over the next few weeks I’ll finalize the remaining design choices and share more details as things progress. I’m already looking forward to fall nesting and the cozy feeling a finished kitchen will bring.
Catch up on some of our home progress so far: Dining Room Shiplap Wall / Fireplace Makeover / Living Room Botanicals & Dresser / Living Room Daybed / Master Bedroom / Guest Room / Basement White Brick Fireplace / My Son’s Room — or browse my Seattle house posts to see more inspiration and ideas.
Shop my house and latest home decorating finds