A fresh coat of paint can do wonders, but this tuxedo kitchen makeover took things a step further, transforming a bland, all-white space into a timeless and tailored showstopper. In this project, we turned a generic kitchen into a bold-yet-classic space by pairing crisp Chantilly Lace upper cabinets with smoky black lowers, creating that coveted tuxedo look. From oversized matte black hardware to a gleaming stainless steel apron sink and updated quartz counters, every detail was designed for both style and longevity. Here’s how we brought this stunning transformation to life.
Kitchen Makeover Design
When first meeting with our client, we realized how much she appreciated and valued the need for style that reflects her personality while creating a little drama and adding some creative choices to her home. To begin, we started with a design board to create a concept that we could work from.
Crisp Contrast: The Tuxedo Cabinet Look
This kitchen is totally timeless!
Tuxedo kitchen style refers to a two-tone cabinet design where upper cabinets are painted a lighter color and lower cabinets are finished in a darker, contrasting shade. Standard pairings might include whites and creams on top and black or navy for the bottom.
Here’s how we created that tuxedo style:
- Top cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace white for a cool and crisp feel
- Bottom cabinets painted in a moody, smoky hue found in Benjamin Moore Almost Black for grounding contrast.
- Coordinated by painting the existing corner hutch to match the lower cabinets
**Note, the color of the lower cabinets that is displayed in the photos does not accurately display the Almost Black color.
I love this pairing. It is so classic and definitely give a nod to the elegance of a well tailored tuxedo
Designer’s Perspective
Hardware that Adds Style and Substance
To really create a modern-classic design, we decided to use oversized matte black hardware for both the doors and drawers.
To ensure scale, we found a selection that was available in a variety of sizes. This allowed us to create a cohesive design, streamline our product selection, and achieve a modern edge with timeless appeal. The sleek structure is perfect for a tuxedo kitchen. The hardware we used is linked in the picture to the right
Here’s the breakdown of what size was used where
- 3.75″ for smaller upper cabinet doors
- 5″ for small lower cabinet drawers
- 7.5″ for larger drawers and all other cabinets
Backsplash and Counters: Classic Meets Fresh
We decided to use classic beveled white subway tile in keeping with a timeless design.
To assure fresh and clean lines for a modern appeal, we selected a white color for our grout choice. Stunning!
Here is a link to a beautiful beveled subway tile in crisp white.
We swapped outdated counters with a sleek new quartz surface with light veining.
Functional Beauty: Sink, Appliances, and Lighting
I often encourage clients to really evaluate their sink, light fixtures and appliances when they are considering options for a kitchen remodel, even if you are re-working much of what already exists. Taking the opportunity while you are in that mind frame and already planning a design just makes good sense.
Our client already had upgraded her appliances so they were in beautiful shape when we began this project, so we did not need to source this. In light of this, we were able to spend time and money on some other elements important to the overall design. As you can see, we swapped the sink for a sleek new design which added a touch of charm while maintaining a modern and polished look.
It was important to create as much light as possible. We changed out the dated, downcast light for a modern wood and metal fixture that would bring fresh illumination casted up and down. Note, we did paint part of this light in copper to match the new faucet and add richness to the design.
The fixture we used is featured here and linked below:
More Kitchen Transformation Inspiration
Here are some other great kitchen transformations from FunCycled.
Clean and Bright Kitchen Reveal
Classic & Farmhouse Feel Kitchen Makeover
Final Thoughts
I hope you have gleaned some inspiration and perhaps discovered some key takeaways for your kitchen! To see more kitchen inspiration, check out all of our KITCHEN MAKEOVERS.
Are you considering getting your kitchen cabinets painted (OR MORE!), follow these three easy steps to getting your FREE QUOTE today! If you are even remotely considering a kitchen refresh, I encourage you to CONTACT US today!
Thank you all for following along! If you’d like to get this blog in your email once a week, please sign up for our weekly newsletter by adding your email in the little box below my picture at the top of this page.
If you’ve enjoyed this post, please like FunCycled on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest if you don’t already. Keep up to date on the newest finds, vote on colors and give your input on our creativity. We share fun tutorials, great before and after, and new design inspirations.
We offer interior design, kitchen cabinet painting, and custom built tables, barn doors, and repurposed furniture. Thank you, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do.
Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ; )
Exquisite Spaces. Sustainable Designs. Brighter Futures.
Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and I may earn from any qualifying purchases.
