(Day 5)
I care a great deal about how rooms are arranged and finished. A comfortable, functional space doesn’t need to be expensive, but it does require thought and attention to detail. That same approach guided me when I started working in the camp kitchen: making the most of what we had and improving the space so it would be inviting, efficient, and easy to keep clean.
My first step was to organize a cleaning bee and invite a few local women to help. They turned up ready to roll up their sleeves and worked steadily through the tasks I had planned. Their contribution made a big difference — we cleared out clutter, scrubbed surfaces, and tackled projects that needed several hands.
One of our main projects that day was pulling down old wallpaper. The paper had been on the walls for many years and was already peeling and damaged in places. As we removed it, we discovered the drywall beneath was in worse shape than we’d expected: stains, uneven patches, and areas that needed repair. That’s when I pushed for a fresh coat of paint to give the whole kitchen a clean, unified look.
The timeline was tight — groups were scheduled to arrive within days — but the maintenance team responded quickly. They patched the walls, sanded uneven spots, primed where needed and applied paint with care. I’m grateful they were able to complete the job in just two days.
Below you can see the difference the clean-up and paint made. The “before” images show worn finishes and dated wallpaper. After removal and a fresh finish, the space feels brighter, more organized, and easier to maintain.
Here is the same area after painting and tidying. The lighter, neutral paint reflects light better, making the kitchen feel larger and fresher. The new finish also conceals previous blemishes while providing a uniform backdrop that complements the rest of the lodge.
Before the refresh, cabinets and counters showed signs of long-term use. They worked, but they didn’t convey the clean, welcoming environment we want for our guests and volunteers.
And after the update, the space feels revitalized. Painting and basic repairs can dramatically improve both appearance and functionality. The uniform color ties the kitchen to the rest of the main lodge and creates a quiet, cohesive backdrop for meal preparation and serving.
The wall color we used is Barely Beige by Benjamin Moore, the same neutral tone throughout the main lodge. That consistency helps the kitchen blend with adjoining spaces and keeps the overall look calm and cohesive. For the inside of the cupboards we chose Cloud White by Benjamin Moore, a clean, soft white that brightens the interior of storage spaces and makes them feel fresh.
One of the main benefits of this refresh is how much easier the kitchen is to keep clean. The updated paint finishes are more forgiving and easier to wipe down, which is essential in a high-use, communal cooking area. Beyond practical benefits, the makeover also lifted spirits: volunteers and guests alike appreciated entering a tidy, welcoming kitchen where teams can work efficiently.
Small investments in organization, surface repair, and paint can deliver a large return in usability and appearance. This project reinforced that thoughtful, cost-effective updates — coordinated with willing volunteers and a responsive maintenance team — can transform an everyday space into one that’s both attractive and highly functional.
