We’re adding a small cottage to the back of our home for my parents. If you missed the earlier update, I shared progress photos of the addition in a previous post.
Today I’m sharing a design mood board for their kitchenette. They’ve chosen so many charming elements, and the space will be both practical and adorable. Below are the key features and selections we’ve planned for the kitchenette.

Paint: Languid Blue by Sherwin-Williams for the cabinets — a soft, calming blue that feels fresh and classic.
Wall treatment: Beadboard for a cozy, cottage-style texture that complements the cabinet color.
Countertops: Butcher block to bring warmth and a natural, inviting surface for everyday use.
Flooring: European white oak, matching the floors in our main house for a cohesive flow between spaces.
Appliances and fixtures selected for the kitchenette include:
- Oven with integrated air fryer for versatile cooking.
- Automatic espresso machine so they can enjoy coffee easily at home.
- Classic retro white fridge and freezer for a timeless look.
- Simple, functional faucet chosen to coordinate with the sink and overall style.
- Under-mount bar sink for clean lines and easier countertop cleanup.
- Electric cooktop to keep the kitchen compact and efficient.
- Classic retro under-cabinet range hood to match the vintage-inspired appliances.
Tile choices to add pattern and interest:
- Blue and white square tile for a playful, vintage-inspired accent area.
- Ceramic subway wall tile for a simple, durable backsplash that balances the decorative tiles.

The goal for this kitchenette is to blend functionality with a warm, homey aesthetic. The combination of soft Languid Blue cabinetry, the texture of beadboard walls, and the natural warmth of butcher block countertops creates a balanced and inviting space. The European white oak floors bring continuity with our main home, while the retro-style appliances add character and charm.
Practical choices like an electric cooktop, an oven with air fryer, and an easy-to-use espresso machine ensure my parents have everything they need without overwhelming the compact footprint. The under-mount sink and thoughtful faucet selection make daily tasks simpler, and the under-cabinet range hood maintains the clean, retro look while providing necessary ventilation.
For finishes, the blue-and-white square tile introduces a hint of pattern and color, and the ceramic subway tile keeps the backsplash classic and easy to maintain. Together, these choices give the kitchenette personality without becoming visually busy.
If you missed the earlier update, I posted photos of the addition’s progress in a previous article. You can also find all of our renovation details and update posts in the remodel category of our home blog for more photos and information on the project.