Observe how introducing a compact coffee station corner enhances the appearance and utility of this modest kitchen.
This writing originated shortly after we relocated to our townhouse. The kitchen presented a significant hurdle in our compact new dwelling, yet this initial modification—the coffee bar corner—remains a favorite. Continue reading to see the kitchen's initial state upon moving in, and how eliminating a cupboard created a feeling of greater space!
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Upon arrival, our kitchen resembled this:
^Kitchen Before^
While I did not capture close-ups, there was an unusual 'trim' around all the upper cabinets, likely recycled pink countertopping. This peculiar detail vanished in just one day; my husband had it removed incredibly fast, providing an immediate refresh.
Subsequently, apart from trying to cram all my kitchen essentials into the cabinets, nothing changed until several weeks ago when I found renewed energy.
I was weary of keeping all my cookbooks tucked away in the living room due to limited space, so I completely rethought the kitchen layout to achieve better organization. One change prompted another, and before I realized it, I had the paint ready…
This transformation was not massive, but it greatly improved how much I relish the kitchen currently.
The dull beige walls are no longer present.
^Kitchen Before^
Now, they are vibrant and lovely using just one coat of Benjamin Moore’s Gray Cashmere (a leftover from my prior Coastal Cottage Office makeover).
^Kitchen After^
I recognize the obvious issue: the vent protruding from the top of the cabinets. We truly wish the building contractors had concealed that within the wall during construction. We are developing solutions for it, but for now, it adds a touch of 'industrial' character up there.;)
The element that truly elevates my kitchen is this small corner:
^Before^
^After^
We adore our new kitchen coffee bar!! You won't believe the spatial improvement after we took out that upper cupboard.
^During^
We repurposed shelves from our former kitchen (from Ikea),
and affixed mug hooks underneath one.
Though I lack a photo of the dated tap from move-in, I possess the 'after' shot of the gooseneck model we acquired during a half-price sale a few weeks ago.
It makes dishwashing significantly more enjoyable!;)
I still have further plans for kitchen organization, but presently, I am content with how it feels.
Prior to this transformation
Truthfully, I dedicated an entire day to vigorous baking activities.
Each dish removed from the oven brings a greater sense of domestic comfort.
Additional Concepts for Compact Kitchen Upgrades:
- Check out this before and after small kitchen remodel project completed in this tiny kitchen
- A method for crafting a homemade pendant light using a bowl!
- Easy-to-install above cabinet lighting is quite simple to set up!
