When we first met our clients, Heather and Brian, we knew it would be such a wonderful experience working with them! They were truly excited about having a fresh take on their bathroom and really willing to trust the process of design.

In reviewing their bathroom with them, we noted some key elements that needed change: 1) it was outdated; 2) the shower was way too small; 3) there was a lack of storage; and 4) the bathroom had absolutely no personality. After discussing some of the hopes and needs, we went to work on planning a stunning at-home spa experience for these well-deserving clients!

Given the details our clients shared with us, we leaned into a modern farmhouse aesthetic for the bathroom. Here’s the design board we created to envision a new retreat for our clients. The design feels grounded, clean, and just a little bit indulgent.

YOU CAN SHOP THIS DESIGN BOARD HERE

The Bold Move: Swapping the Tub for a Luxury Walk-In

The centerpiece of this renovation is the massive walk-in shower. We said goodbye to the barely used tub area and cramped shower and hello to a custom tiled sanctuary.

Here is the before of a cramped shower and not so very big tub. Both really not accommodating for this family.

And here is the transformation. Oversized shower with simple but thoughtfully designed storage cabinet.

• The Setup: We installed two overhead showerheads (because why fight for the warm water?) and a built-in bench seat for that true spa experience.

• The Vibe: The entire space is encased in a black paned shower enclosure. It provides that “industrial edge” that keeps the farmhouse look from feeling too “country.”

• The Execution: To really embody the luxury feel for this bathroom, we paired deep gray tiles with dark grout with the black shower fixtures – all within the stunning paned shower enclosure. Together, these really create an elevated and luxury feel.

Storage That Doesn’t Look Like… Storage

One of the biggest pain points in any bathroom is clutter. We solved this with two strategic moves:

1. The Arched Cabinet: Tucked right next to the shower, this adds architectural interest while housing fresh towels and a few “just for looks” decor pieces.

2. The Hidden Gems: We swapped standard mirrors for round medicine cabinet mirrors. You get the sleek, circular look that breaks up the sharp lines of the tile, plus a secret spot for your toothpaste and skincare.

Warmth Meets Industrial: The Vanity & Tile

To keep the black accents and deep grays from feeling too cold, we brought in a rustic wood double vanity. The soft brown tones provide that “organic” feel that is essential to a modern farmhouse.

We also took the tile work up a notch, literally. We tiled the floor in a grounding gray with clean lines and then ran white subway tile halfway up the walls on three sides of the bathroom. It’s a classic design trick that protects your walls and makes the room feel significantly more expensive than it actually was.

When working with a palette of black, warm white, and deep gray, texture is your best friend. The wood grain in the vanity is what makes this room feel like a home rather than a hotel.

pro tip from the funcycled design team

Shop the Look

Love the pieces we used? You can source the exact items (or our favorite alternatives) for your own home below:

Ready for Your Own Transformation?

Whether you are staring at a 1990s honey-oak vanity or a tub you haven’t used since 2012, we’re here to help. Our team doesn’t just dream up the design, we work with you to help bring the vision to life!

To get started, schedule a design consultation so we can create a plan for your home. Click the link below to book an appointment.

Did you know? Project Management is Just as Important

At FunCycled, we can also project manage your design project. Whether you are renovating your bathroom, updating your kitchen, or adding on to a part of house, there are so many details that need to be considered and properly managed to assure your project goes according to plan and executed well! Communication and detail management are key to accomplishing this, and FunCycled can do this for you. That is exactly what FunCycled did for this project, and can do for your project as well.

As project managers, we ensure your project stays on schedule. These are the details we will ensure: smooth communication with your contractor and any vendors required for your project, ensure proper layout and installation, coordinate details for deliveries, take care of ordering products to mitigate incorrect products, and provide oversight to the full scope of the project.

Final Thoughts

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. This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As always, I only recommend products I genuinely love and trust.

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ; )

Because home is where peace begins.

At FunCycled, we believe that the spaces we inhabit should reflect the beauty of the world we strive to protect. As we stand on the doorstep of Earth Month, we aren’t just looking at a calendar of “green” tips; we are looking at the very foundation of why this company exists. Design is more than aesthetics; it is an act of stewardship. By choosing to see the potential in the “already-owned,” we honor the resources of our planet and the stories embedded in our homes. And when we build this into our community, we are delighted!

Below, let’s take a look at the importance of Earth Month and also the value of partnering with a like-minded and mission-inspiring event with a local organization, Justice for Orphans, hosting an amazing fundraiser, just in time for Earth Month! To kick things off, I am sharing one of my personal favorites: a repurposed dresser with custom paint.

Good design isn’t about what you can buy; it’s about how well you can steward what has already been given to the earth and your home.

A Legacy of Stewardship: Our Earth Month History

Over the years, our commitment to the environment has grown from a personal passion into a community-wide movement. From hosting high-energy upcycling contests to shining a spotlight on local heroes like Habitat for Humanity, FunCycled has always aimed to be a champion for sustainable living. We’ve spent years demystifying the “eco-friendly” label, proving through our past blog posts and projects that choosing sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing style. It actually means elevating it.

2026 Spotlight: The ReFurnishings x JFO Collaboration

This year, we are thrilled to announce our role as the Official Sustainability and Design Partner for a truly special collaboration with ReFurnishings Second Hand Store . We are joining forces for a furniture flipping contest that culminates in a high-impact auction to benefit Justice for Orphans (JFO). This partnership is a perfect circle of restoration: we are refreshing furniture to provide a future for children in need. 

Thrift & Flip Event for JFO: What it is and Why We Love It

Thrift & Flip is a high-energy fundraising event where local creatives transform donated furniture into one-of-a-kind pieces to support the vital work of Justice for Orphans (JFO). Founded in 2012 by adoptive and foster moms, JFO is a movement of advocacy and action dedicated to providing tangible support for children in the foster care system and the global orphan crisis.

We truly believe in this mission. Nothing inspires us more than seeing a community using its unique talents to support Justice for Orphans. We aren’t just the design partners for this event; we are participants who believe deeply in this mission. We’re already mid-transformation on a “flip” of our own, and we can’t wait to share it with you!

HOW to HELP: Your Contribution Matters

Great things happen when we work together. Share your project and help us grow our collective impact.

#1 FLIP SOMETHING & SHARE IT: We want to see your creativity in action! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time flipper, we invite you to share your project with us! When you post your a project, be sure to tag both @funcycled and @justicefororphans and use these helpful hashtags #FunCycledThriftFlip #JFOThriftFlip #JusticeForOrphans.

**for those of you who are participating in the challenge, please be sure to tag us, and we will share your project pics!

We’re in the trenches with you. Nothing inspires us more than seeing a community using its unique talents to support Justice for Orphans. We aren’t just the design partners for this event; we are participants who believe deeply in this mission. We’re already mid-transformation on a “flip” of our own, and we can’t wait to share it with you!

#2 ATTEND THE EVENT: Join us on Friday, April 24, from 6:00–8:30 PM at The Wire in Coxsackie, NY. It will be a fun evening of hors’ d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and the exciting live auction of all the transformed pieces. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased HERE!

#3 SHARE ABOUT THE EVENT: Don’t forget to invite a friend to join you at the fundraiser! And whether you can make it or not, definitely share about it on your social media or sending this email to a friend! The more, the merrier!

#4 BID ON A FLIPPED PROJECT: At the event, ALL of the flipped projects will be up for auction, including an original from us at FunCycled.

Time to Make a Difference

This high-energy furniture auction supporting Justice for Orphans, a movement founded by adoptive and foster moms to provide tangible relief to vulnerable children.

Learn More & Get Your Tickets Here!

Sustainable Design for Your Home

While we love a good DIY flip, stewardship also happens on a professional scale. Our signature Kitchen Facelifts are the ultimate example of this; by refinishing your existing high-quality cabinetry instead of sending it to a landfill, we drastically reduce the environmental footprint of a remodel. Whether through a kitchen refresh or a full-room design consultation, we help you make choices that are built to last, not just for a season, but for a lifetime of conscious living.

We would love to provide you a FREE KITCHEN CABINET PAINTING QUOTE! Contact Us Today!

Final Thoughts: Choosing to Honor & Embracing Stewardship

Thank you all for following along! I hope you are encouraged to consider finding ways to honor Earth Day both in this month ahead but also all year long. Stewarding what we have and the planet reap so many benefits to us! Please consider joining up with the Thrift & Flip Event either as a flipper or to attend the auction and final fundraising event.

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. This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As always, I only recommend products I genuinely love and trust.

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ; )

Because home is where peace begins.

Honey oak cabinets have had a legendary run, but for most kitchens, this finish does not stand the test of time and often makes your kitchen stuck in the past. We recently took on an oak kitchen that was structurally solid but aesthetically… well, outdated and dark. By trading the dated tiers for a seamless, one-level white quartz counter and swapping the “builder-grade” vibe for the moody, sophisticated depth of Benjamin Moore Lafayette Green, we completely redefined the heart of this home. If you’ve been staring at your own cabinets wondering if professional paint and some fresh backsplash tile can actually save you money over a full gut, grab a coffee. Because this transformation is proof that you don’t need a sledgehammer to get a designer finish.

Here’s where we started:

The Power of Paint: BM Lafayette Green & Simply White

When it comes to high-impact transformations, never underestimate the “power of the brush.” For this project, we leaned into one of our absolute favorite, fail-safe color combinations: the marriage of a soft, warm white with a deep, soulful green. By anchoring the lower cabinets in BM Lafayette Green (HC-135) and lifting the uppers with Simply White, we achieved a “Tuxedo” look that feels intentional and grounded rather than just “painted.” This isn’t just a fleeting trend, either—this specific pairing of organic, forest-inspired tones and creamy whites is a classic aesthetic that truly stands the test of time. It provides enough drama to make a statement, but enough warmth to ensure your kitchen still feels like the coziest room in the house ten years from now.

Lafayette Green – Benjamin Moore

Simply White – Benjamin Moore

When you have a lighter color on the top of your kitchen and a darker or more bold color on the bottom, the effect is referred to as a “Tuxedo Kitchen.” What people may not realize is that employing this technique can actually make a kitchen look bigger. Here’s a comparison of the kitchen side by side.

Subway tile is a classic for a reason, but if you’re looking to incorporate design that moves beyond a standard look, the secret is often found in the orientation. We decided to ditch the traditional offset “brick” pattern in favor of a vertical offset, and the impact was immediate.

By flipping the green subway tile on its end, we created clean, continuous lines that draw the eye upward, tricking the brain into thinking the ceilings are much taller than they actually are.

It’s a simple geometric shift that gives an affordable, standard tile a high-end designer edge, proving that you don’t need a custom-made mosaic to make a modern architectural statement.

Here’s one of our top picks for green tiles for your kitchen. I love the dark emerald green!

2″ x 8″ Porcelain Tile

The Finishing Touches: Why We Chose White Quartz & Brushed Gold Hardware

To bring the whole look together, we focused on the “jewelry” of the kitchen: the brushed gold hardware and the white quartz countertops. There is something incredibly sophisticated about the way a warm metallic pop sits against the moody depth of Lafayette Green—it’s an instant elevation that makes the entire space feel curated rather than just “refurbished.”

Here are some of our favorite picks for this combo

We paired this with a crisp white quartz that effectively bounces light around the room, providing a clean, durable surface that bridges the gap between the dark lowers and the bright uppers. This combination is our top recommendation for anyone wanting a high-end, designer finish; the quartz offers the look of marble without the high-maintenance “stain-anxiety,” while the gold pulls provide that final, polished touch that makes the cabinetry truly sing.

This before photo is a good example of how a ledge/half wall between the kitchen and dining area keeps things closed off & cuts the work area short.

By taking that ledge down, the sight-lines have been opened and our clients have gained additional counter space which can now be used in a variety of ways.

For additional kitchen inspiration, check out these transformations from FunCycled.

Blue & Gold Kitchen with Open Shelves

Clean and Bright Kitchen Reveal

Classic & Farmhouse Feel Kitchen Makeover

Kitchen Makeover Ideas: Warm Taupe Cabinets with Black Island for a Timeless Look

Final Thoughts

I hope you have gleaned some inspiration and perhaps discovered some key takeaways for your kitchen! To see more Green & White kitchen inspiration, check out our design picks for your kitchen. Follow the link below:

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.

Dark espresso cabinetry can easily date a home as was the case for this project. While the original built-in bar in this home was high-quality, the dark wood felt like a “black hole” in the dining area. We wanted to transform this nook into a bright, inviting focal point that complemented the rest of our Feather Down kitchen remodel.

Here is how we took this bar from heavy and dated to light and airy.

The Top Choice: Benjamin Moore Feather Down

If you are looking for the perfect warm white/light neutral for a small space, Benjamin Moore Feather Down is our top recommendation. Unlike a stark white which can feel cold in a small nook, Feather Down has a creamy warmth that feels sophisticated and high-end. We used this on the cabinets to create a seamless transition from the bar to the adjoining kitchen.

Moving Past the Fear Factor: Painting Over Dark Espresso

One of the biggest fears we hear from homeowners is: “Can you actually paint over dark espresso wood without it looking cheap or peeling?” The answer is a resounding yes. The secret isn’t just the paint; it’s the prep. By using a high-quality bonding primer, we ensured the Feather Down finish was durable and smooth, completely hiding the dark grain underneath. If you’ve been holding off because you’re afraid of the dark wood “bleeding” through, this is your sign that it’s safe to go ahead!

Here is the bar area before we started.

And here is the after.

Is This Makeover Right for You?

While we love this look, it’s important to know who should not choose this specific palette. If your bar is in a high-traffic area where red wine spills or coffee splatters are a daily occurrence (and you don’t want to be diligent with a microfiber cloth) a very light beige might be a challenge. If you want to keep things neutral, I would recommend Vintage Pewter.

Vintage Pewter by Benjamin Moore

Or maybe you are looking for a bit of drama and a deeper muted color might be for you. We love Newburg Green for a moody vibe that will help hide fingerprints.

Newburg Green by Benjamin Moore

Elevating the Design: Quartz and Wallpaper

To truly elevate this built-in bar makeover, we didn’t stop at paint. The dark, heavy counters were replaced with light quartz and added a decorative blue wallpaper backsplash.

By adding the wallpaper in between the uppers and lowers, we create the idea of backsplash and introduce subtle pattern and color.

This is the wallpaper that was used. We love the balance of blue and beige – totally perfect for this kitchen!

Emma Floral in Putty & Soft Blue – Spoonflower Wallpaper

To create a more elevated and seamless look, select hardware that mimics the shape and style of your cabinets.

Pro tip from the funcycled design team

Ready to Say Goodbye to Your Dated Cabinets?

Love this transformation? Let us handle yours! If you’re tired of your dark espresso cabinets or flat builder-grade island, we’re here to help. We specialize in elevating existing cabinetry with custom trim and professional finishes. Contact us today to get a personalized FREE QUOTE. Let’s get your project on the calendar!

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 ; )

Because home is where peace begins.

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and I may earn from any qualifying purchases.

Updating Dated Wood Cabinets with a New Palette

Whether you have truly old cabinets or newer ones, when finished in wood tones, the outcome can often feel dated and can make your kitchen seem more like a cave. Not exactly the main goal for most homeowners! This kitchen is a great example of this. The medium wood cabinets and dark espresso bar area were weighing the space down. The goal for this renovation was to create a bright, airy environment that felt intentional. Since the adjoining dining and living rooms featured beautiful blue tones, we knew we wanted to bring that same energy into the heart of the home. By moving away from dark wood and toward a sophisticated “new neutral,” we set the stage for a total transformation that feels both fresh and timeless.

Here is a picture of what the kitchen looked like BEFORE.

How to Add Shaker Trim to Kitchen Cabinets for a Custom Look

While the original cabinets were in great shape and featured lovely detail on the doors, the end panels and the island felt like an afterthought. They remained totally flat, which left the cabinetry looking a bit incomplete from the side profile. To bridge that gap, we added custom Shaker trim to the exposed ends and the island base. This small but mighty architectural update aligned the panels with the style of the doors, instantly elevating the “builder-grade” surfaces to a high-end, custom-built aesthetic. It’s a crucial step in this Feather Down kitchen remodel that ensured the finished cabinetry looked polished and professional from every single angle.

Painting Cabinets in Benjamin Moore Feather Down and Stratton Blue

With updated details on the cabinets, we were able to really hone in on the color palette, which is actually the genius behind this beautiful makeover! For the perimeter cabinets, we chose Benjamin Moore Feather Down. It is the perfect light beige, warm enough to feel cozy but light enough to keep the kitchen feeling expansive. For a bold focal point, we painted the island in Benjamin Moore Stratton Blue. This soft, coastal blue-green provides the perfect amount of contrast against the beige cabinetry, making the island feel like a piece of custom furniture rather than just a workspace.

Here’s a picture of these two colors working side by side.

Feather Down by Benjamin Moore

Stratton Blue by Benjamin Moore

It’s a little hard to tell but this is a close up of the kitchen island, painted in the cool blue/green hue, Stratton Blue. Against the dark handles the blue really pops.

Design Pro Tip: To create a more elevated and seamless look, select hardware that mimics the profile of your cabinetry. For example, pairing a linear handle that has a squared off base with raised panel-style door reinforces the lines of the kitchen, making the entire design feel intentional and custom-built.

The Newburg Green Bar Stools: A Moody Blue Accent

To round out the seating area, we refreshed the bar stools with Benjamin Moore Newburg Green. Don’t let the name fool you, however. This color reads as a stunning, deep teal-blue in most lights. By using this moodier shade on the stools, we added depth to the room without clashing with the softer Stratton Blue on the island. It’s a great example of how using different tones of the same color family can make a room feel curated rather than “matchy-matchy.”

Built-in Bar Makeover: Quartz Counters and Decorative Wallpaper

The bar area underwent the most dramatic change of all. Originally a dark espresso, we painted these cabinets in Feather Down to match the kitchen and ensure a cohesive look. We swapped the dated, dark countertops for a crisp, light quartz that reflects the light beautifully. To add a punch of personality, we installed a decorative blue wallpaper between the upper and lower cabinets. This serves as a stunning backsplash that ties the kitchen’s blue accents directly into the bar’s design.

Creating a Cohesive Color Flow in Open Concept Spaces

The secret to a successful home makeover is flow. By strategically using shades of blue throughout the kitchen – on the island, to the stools, on the wallpaper at the bar, and in the small details around the space, we created a visual bridge to the client’s existing living and dining decor. The transition from the Feather Down cabinets to the adjoining rooms now feels seamless and intentional. This project proves that you don’t need a full demolition to get a “new construction” feel; sometimes, all you need is the right palette and a few custom details.

Here’s one more look at the after for this kitchen. What a transformation!

For additional kitchen inspiration, check out these transformations from FunCycled.

Blue & Gold Kitchen with Open Shelves

Clean and Bright Kitchen Reveal

Classic & Farmhouse Feel Kitchen Makeover

Kitchen Makeover Ideas: Warm Taupe Cabinets with Black Island for a Timeless Look

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.

Hidden compartments, flip-up top, and nostalgic details. It is exactly these touches of charm that we love about vintage furniture items, like an old secretary desk that was recently brought to us for a refresh. The true craftsmanship of a piece like a secretary desk make furniture repurposing so much fun! When we met with our client, it was clear that they hoped for something fresh, moody, and elevated without losing the warmth & character of this piece they loved. Immediately, we knew it was the perfect opportunity to select a rich and greens: Vintage Vogue by Benjamin Moore.

This makeover not only gave new life to a classic desk but also served as the ideal project for a full Vintage Vogue Benjamin Moore review. Below, you’ll see how the color performs on furniture, why we chose it for this flip, and how updating a single small piece can completely transform a corner of your home.

Before: What We Started With

Before painting, this small secretary desk had good bones: a sturdy pull out writing surface, petite storage cubbies, and clean lines that deserved to shine. The original wood finish, though rich in places, was worn in others and simply overwhelmed The interior compartments felt dark, and the exterior needed a cohesive direction.

What made this piece special from the start was its hidden functionality—those little compartments that stay tucked away until they’re needed. We knew that if we chose the right paint color and preserved the right amount of wood, the desk could feel both modern and storied at the same time.

Why We Chose Vintage Vogue by Benjamin Moore

When the goal is to elevate a classic piece without overwhelming it, Vintage Vogue is one of our favorite go-to colors. It’s a dark, earthy green with just enough depth to feel sophisticated—but not so saturated that it becomes trendy or overpowering.

For this desk, we wanted a color that would:

• Add moodiness without making the piece feel heavy
• Highlight the original wood rather than hide it
• Bring a grounded, calm presence to a small space
• Work beautifully with brass or antique-inspired hardware

Vintage Vogue checks all of those boxes. It creates an instant focal point while still letting the craftsmanship of the piece shine. And because the desk is on the smaller side, this color helps it feel substantial and intentional rather than simply functional.

Paint Color Review: How Vintage Vogue Performs on Furniture

Vintage Vogue is one of those rare colors that looks good almost everywhere, especially on furniture. Here’s a swatch of this beautiful hue:

Vintage Vogue by Benjamin Moore

Here’s what we’ve learned from using it on pieces like this one.

Undertones & Depth

Vintage Vogue leans into a deep olive-green tone with subtle charcoal undertones. That balance is what keeps it from reading too bright or too muddy. It’s earthy, elegant, and timeless all at once.

Lighting: How the Color Changes Throughout the Day

In bright daylight, the green comes forward and feels sophisticated but organic.
In low light or evening hours, the color deepens into a soft, moody charcoal-green that adds warmth and intimacy.

Because a secretary desk often sits in a corner or along a wall, it’s important to choose a color that still holds beauty in softer lighting. This is where Vintage Vogue excels.

Finish, Durability & Ideal Uses

We chose a durable furniture-appropriate finish to protect the writing surface and exterior. If you’re painting high-touch pieces, pairing Vintage Vogue with a good primer in a high-performance topcoat helps preserve the richness of the color and prevent scuffs. This color works beautifully on:

• Entryway consoles
• Built-in desks
• Accent cabinets
• Nightstands
• Vintage pieces with curved legs or wood detailing
• Moody office or study furniture

It’s especially striking on antique and vintage pieces, such as a secretary desk (like this one), antique buffet, or dresser.

Design Choice Spotlight: Why We Kept Some Wood Original

One of the best parts of this makeover was the decision to keep selected areas of the original wood. The warmth of the wood adds character, contrast, and dimension to the moody green exterior. It also helps preserve the story of the piece.

Inside the compartments, we painted a few sections in Vintage Vogue for a cohesive look but left others natural. This mix gives the desk a layered feel that’s both modern and true to its roots. Opening the lid to find both wood and rich green tones feels like a quiet surprise, making this desk even more special.

After: The Final Reveal

The transformation speaks for itself. With the lid closed, the desk reads as a stately, elegant piece with a deep green finish that anchors the space. Once opened, the personality shines through—the little cubbies, warm wood, and painted accents all play together beautifully.

The final result is a desk that feels updated, functional, and full of character—exactly what the client hoped for.

How to Style a Piece Painted in Vintage Vogue

If you’re considering using this color in your own home, here are a few styling tips that pair beautifully with Vintage Vogue:

• Warm Brass Hardware: Adds elegance and a historic touch.
• Leather or Soft Velvet Desk Chair: A warm texture balances the cool, moody paint.
• Antique Brass or Matte Black Lamp: Provides contrast and soft lighting.
• Neutral Accessories: Cream, beige, or linen textures pair perfectly.
• Wood Accents: Picture frames, bookends, or trays keep the palette cohesive.

For those wanting to recreate the look, we’ve included a list of helpful tools and accessories we recommend (affiliate links help support our small business—thank you!).

Final Thoughts

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.

Transforming a kitchen is so much than just updating finishes. Creating a space that feels both functional and welcoming is key to personalizing your home and making it a fit for you and your family. In this kitchen makeover, we turned a dated, oak-toned space into a warm, sophisticated room that balances timeless style with everyday livability. By introducing soft taupe cabinets, a striking black island, and curated touches of black and gold hardware, we were able to add depth, contrast, and personality while maintaining a cohesive, inviting atmosphere that flows seamlessly into the adjoining dining area.

Here’s where this kitchen started.

Like so many homes, this kitchen started with good bones. The layout and flow worked well and the quality of the cabinets served as a great foundation. What it needed was a cohesive plan.

Transforming the Cabinets with Warm Taupe and Striking Black

One major goal was to break up all of the wood tones in this room. That meant selecting a lighter and softer shade for the cabinets. We chose Ashley Gray, a warm taupe for softness while still adding depth, for the cabinets. And to ground the room, we selected Lincoln Cottage Black, an earthy and warm black, for the island and cabinets in the adjoining space. This pairing offers a timeless palette of subtle gray against the deep and rich black.

These are the colors we used for this kitchen.

Ashley Gray by Benjamin Moore

Lincoln Cottage Black by Valspar

To echo the gorgeous contrast, new lights replaced the outdated ones. The sleek lines add a modern feel to the room.

Creating a Built-In Look with Custom Details

To help bridge the kitchen and dining area, new cabinets were added to each side of the window at the end of the room. This window serves as the “end cap” of the long room where the kitchen flows one into the next.

Installing wainscoting along the dining area wall allowed us to create a smooth transition between old and new elements while giving the entire wall a true built-in feel. These thoughtful architectural details help the kitchen and dining room work together visually rather than feeling like two separate spaces.

Creating a built-in look instantly grounds a space, giving it purpose and definition while elevating the style and adding meaningful character

Pro tip from the funcycled design team

Layering Hardware for a Curated, Cohesive Finish

Hardware is one of the simplest ways to bring dimension to a space, and in this makeover, it played a key role. We chose a blend of matte black and brushed gold pieces to give the kitchen a collected, designer feel. The combination adds warmth and contrast without overwhelming the cabinetry, and the mixed finishes introduce subtle sophistication that elevates the entire palette.

By keeping the lines of the hardware the same, mixing the finish remains cohesive.

Pro tip from the funcycled desing team

Updating the Dining Area for a Seamless Flow

To visually connect the kitchen and dining room, we refinished the dining table with a soft, neutral brown that complements the new cabinet tone. The base of the table and the dining chairs were painted in Lincoln Cottage Black to echo the island and tie the two spaces together. The result is a dining area that feels intentionally linked to the kitchen while still maintaining its own inviting identity.

Here’s a picture of the table and chairs before we worked our magic. Much like kitchen cabinets and the wood on wood tones, this set did not stand out at all from the floor and really from the kitchen.

And here are the table and chairs after being refreshed. What a difference!

Adding Warmth Through Textures, Leather, and Greenery

To keep the newly refreshed kitchen from feeling too polished, we layered in warm textures and natural elements. Caramel leather saddle stools add a touch of richness, while the wood accents and greenery bring softness and an organic feel. These styling details introduce everyday warmth and personality—proof that even small additions can transform the mood of a room.

Kitchen Makeover Ideas to Inspire Your Own Home

This project is a reminder that meaningful transformations don’t require a complete overhaul. Thoughtfully chosen paint, purposeful contrast, and curated textures can completely reshape a space. Whether you’re working with dated finishes or simply craving a refreshed look, these kitchen makeover ideas show how a warm, elevated palette can breathe new life into the heart of your home.

For additional kitchen inspiration, check out these transformations from FunCycled.

Blue & Gold Kitchen with Open Shelves

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.

Every kitchen has a story, and this one’s started dark wood cabinets and overworked hardware, equally as dark, leaving no room for distinction and a little lack-luster. Despite being open to the living room, the kitchen felt disjointed, weighed down, and lacking in personality. Our goal was to honor its great layout while giving it a new sense of depth, style, and modern character. The result? A dramatic transformation anchored by Black Evergreen cabinets, brushed gold details, and a reimagined island that now feels like a design feature instead of an afterthought.

Here’s a picture of the kitchen before

Why We Chose Black Evergreen by Behr for the Cabinets

Addressing the cabinet color was the first place we started. Instead of defaulting to white or light tones, we chose Black Evergreen by Behr, a deep green-black that instantly elevated the space. This shade has the richness of black with gorgeous, rich green tones. Against the existing black granite countertops, the color feels intentional and striking, providing enough contrast without overwhelming the room.

Painting the island to match brought a cohesive flow across the entire kitchen, tying together what once felt like disconnected elements. The shift from dark brown wood to this bold, moody hue gave the kitchen a new identity. It now feels modern, timeless, and tailored.

Here is a swatch of Black Evergreen, which helps demonstrate its depth.

The Power of Details: Gold Hardware & Arabesque Backsplash

With these cabinets outfitted in such a rich color, we needed to account for some new details to match their depth and personality. Out went the dated hardware, and in came brushed gold pulls and knobs. The subtle gleam of gold immediately brightened the cabinets, creating warmth and sophistication.

For the backsplash, we installed a classic white arabesque tile. The shape adds movement and texture, while dark gray grout outlines each curve, ensuring the pattern holds its own against the bold cabinetry. I love how this shape and color provide balance to the kitchen design.

Together with gold hardware, this white backsplash layers depth into the design, preventing the dark counters and cabinets from overpowering the space.

Pro-Tip from the funcycled design team

Turning a Builder-Grade Island into a Design Statement

Originally, this kitchen island was purely functional. Yes, serving its purpose but lacking style and causing it to feel disjointed from the rest of the kitchen and not really even part of the adjoining living room. We reimagined it by wrapping the base in board and batten, then trimming out three sides with molding to match the design of the cabinet side. Painting the island in Black Evergreen unified it with the cabinetry, while the added millwork elevated it into a focal point.

Now, instead of blending into the background, the island anchors the kitchen and enhances the open flow into the living room. It feels custom, thoughtful, and designed to belong.

Styling That Brings Warmth & Balance

With such high contrast between the black granite and white backsplash, styling became key to softening the overall look. For the photoshoot, we layered in natural textures: vintage wood canisters, a cutting board, stacked bowls, and a candle. The warmth of the wood tones brings depth, while greenery adds life and freshness. These small, thoughtful touches bridge the gap between sleek finishes and everyday livability, ensuring the kitchen feels welcoming as well as stunning.

More Kitchen Transformation Inspiration

Here are some other great kitchen transformations from FunCycled.

Blue & Gold Kitchen with Open Shelves

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!

Final Thoughts

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 as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

A Black & Rust Bathroom Makeover That Transforms Flat to Fabulous

This bathroom had great potential, filled with ample and charming built-ins, but the all-white color scheme left the space feeling sterile and unfinished. Our goal? To inject personality, warmth, and modern edge using a bold palette and intentional design moves. From geometric tile to warm rust paint, this bold bathroom makeover tells a story of elevated style through contrast, color, and texture.

This is how the bathroom looked BEFORE.

This is the DESIGN BOARD I created for this bathroom project. I love the mix of colors and textures!

And here is out it turned out AFTER!

Adding Depth with Black Accents

We also wanted to incorporate other dark features around the room to carry elegance and drama throughout the space. The combination of the black tile in the shower niche alongside the painted storage nooks and feature wall provide a gorgeous statement that grounds the space and accomplishes and elevated design for our client.

Black accents, whether a feature wall, accompanying tile, or select piece of furniture, bring elegance to any space. It provides a timeless and elevated look that always looks polished and ready to make a statement.

Pro tip from the funcycled design team

Here is the black color we chose to use for this design.

Black Beauty by Benjamin Moore

A Warm Vanity Anchors the Bathroom Design

Our design suggested a light to medium warm wood tone vanity to add warmth to the room. We love the lighter vanity ultimately selected for this project. The curved drawers mimic the arc shapes found in the wallpaper.

This curved vanity is nice for a compact space, just 24″ wide. Plus, I love that it has clearance below the base so it helps maintain a open feel in a smaller bathroom.

If you prefer a more traditional look with square lines, this option is also great. It is the one we originally sourced for our design board.

Built-In Shelves with Bold Wallpaper

When a bathroom (old, new, compact, or large) includes storage solutions, we are quick to check off the practical box, knowing we have “in room” storage. Super convenient! And, while I absolutely agree that ticking this box is a huge win, I like to imagine these areas as opportunities for design moments!

In this bathroom, situated on both sides of the shower are two such spaces. Recessed nooks that provide both open and closed storage solutions. As you can see in the before photo, these nooks are certainly providing function for our clients, but they are what I would say is lackluster. They serve only functional outcomes and entirely miss out on providing a great design outcome as well. What a missed opportunity for something amazing!

To address this missed moment, the design incorporated painting these storage zones in a deep black color and then adding a bold patterned wallpaper to the back provide a backdrop for adding style and beauty to the room.

Here is how it turned out!

This is a close up of the wallpaper we used. The bold geometric pattern combines rich tones with strong shapes that still carry a soft flow with curved lines. It is linked up so you can get this look for your home, too.

What I love about this selection is that it adds so much whether it is an entire wall or just a small section inside a cubby!

Rust-Toned Storage Nook Makes a Statement

This part is a little hard to see in our photos, but this built in storage closet was totally transformed simply by changing the boring and dated white color with basic wooden knobs to a deep and rich rust tone outfitted with statement hardware.

Here is the BEFORE photo.

And here is the AFTER photo. Can you believe what a difference?!

We selected Audobon Russet for the rust paint color.

Audobon Russet by Benjamin Moore

Next to these gorgeous finishes, the whole design really pops!

These black and chrome handles add a luxurious and high end look to the rich rust paint color of the built-ins.

This tiered pendant is a great option to keep things elevated without overwhelming a bathroom. Shop below.

And, of course, the shower curtain supports the rich black paint and accent tile and echos the classic pattern of the floor tiling. Shop it below.

Final Thoughts

Creating a style that is unique to you is part of the interior design process. If you would like some additional inspiration and want to see examples and tips for other areas of your home, check out these other blog posts, linked below.

Mid Century Modern Basement Design

Design Trends to try in 2025

Mid Century Living Room Update

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 for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do. 

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ; )

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and I may earn from any qualifying purchases.

In any professional setting, the client experience begins long before the meeting starts. Along with a welcoming reception area, having a client lounge ready to warmly receive guests is of equal importance. For Lauren Hunt and her law office team, who serve the Capital District, we wanted to create a client lounge that is a stylish and welcoming space that reflects the personality and professionalism of the law office. With bold teal tones, mid-century furnishings, natural light, and layered textures, we created a area that feels both approachable and elevated. It’s proof that even a functional space can leave a lasting impression.

Mid-Century Style Meets Law Office Function

• Incorporates clean lines and retro-inspired furniture
• Leather and wood textures bring warmth and structure
• Designed to feel fresh, not fussy

Here’s a picture of what this space looked like before we had the chance to execute the design vision.

Bold Teal and Gold: A Confident Color Story

Choosing the right colors for the client lounge was key to striking the perfect balance between personality and professionalism. A bold teal sofa with clean lines added just the right amount of character without compromising the refined tone of the office. Gold and glass elements were used throughout the space to reflect light and elevate the design, offering a sense of polish without adding visual weight to what is a relatively compact area. Teal and gold together create a color palette that signifies trust, creativity, and stability which are three core values that shape strong client-attorney relationships. These colors weren’t limited to just this space either; they were thoughtfully carried throughout the entire office to create a cohesive and intentional design plan.

To create a cohesive office design, carry a consistent color palette across every space. Repeating key tones in furniture to finishes helps connect each room while allowing them to shine individually.

Pro Tip from the Funcycled design team

This sofa works really well for a compact space. Only 6 ft wide, it can comfortably accommodate a couple of people without adding bulk to the space. And the clean lines that mimic a mid-century style feel timeless, allowing this sofa to work well for years. To purchase a similar sofa, click the link below:

Open Shelving that Blends Storage and Style

Open shelving in a professional office space can be both functional and beautiful when styled with intention. In this client lounge, we used open shelving to add visual interest while providing practical storage that keeps the area feeling open and approachable:

• Open concept shelves accommodate both storage and curated décor
• Books, plants, and useful client materials live side by side
• The clever design adds character while keeping things organized and accessible

I love this shelf! It has such style. With a combination of angled lines, this piece can accommodate a variety of heights, sizes, and needs. I think it can be used in an office, living room, bedroom, or even in a dining room for open storage and bar accessories. Click the link below to purchase:

A Light-Filled, Plant-Rich Lounge Clients Will Love

Maximizing natural light and adding greens to any space create a warm atmosphere and set a welcoming tone to the room. We made sure to situate this lounge zone next to a large window which now serves as a backdrop to the plants and accompanying cabinet, which plays double duty, providing storage and surface area for plants.

Lauren and her team have a combination of real and faux plants throughout the office. The combination of both helps brings depth and vibrancy to a room, bridging the freshness of nature with lasting, effortless style.

We have sourced some of our favorite faux plants and stems for use in any design project. Click the link below to browse and shop:

Let these key points guide you as you consider brining light and green into your space:

• Natural light plays a major role in softening the space
• Layered greenery brings life and texture
• Together, they achieve a thoughtful balance of comfort and productivity

Final Thoughts

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. 

For additional inspiration, check out our other blog post for this AMAZING office makeover, linked below:

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 ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links which means I earn from any qualifying purchases.