Renovating a kitchen can feel like trying to hold back a tidal wave of invoices. It’s easy to get caught up in the “while we’re at it” trap, only to realize you’ve spent your entire budget on a fancy backsplash while your drawer slides are still screeching for mercy.

At FunCycled, we believe a beautiful kitchen shouldn’t require a second mortgage. The secret lies in knowing where to anchor your value and where to lean into money saving selections that will give high impact without blowing your budget.

The Value-Anchor: Where to Splurge

If you’re going to open your wallet, do it for the things you touch, pull, and prep on every single day.

1. Hardware and Fixtures Nothing ruins a high-end look faster than a “designer” faucet that feels like lightweight plastic or cabinet pulls that peel after six months of use. We recommend investing in heavy, high-quality hardware and plumbing fixtures.

SHOP MY TOP CABINET HARDWARE PICKS HERE

I also suggest investing in high-quality hinges and drawer slides so your doors and drawers open & close smoothly. These truly are investments that will pay off in the long run.

Pro-tip: Be sure you measure the proper hinge overlay of your cabinet doors & depth of drawer for slides BEFORE ordering. I have linked up a couple of examples for you below.

SHOP OUR FULL COLLECTION OF KITCHEN GADGETS & ORGANIZERS HERE:

2. Countertops Counters are the workhorse of the room. Investing in a durable, stunning stone or quartz is the fastest way to modernize your space. Because they occupy a primary horizontal plane, they catch the most light and the most eyes.

While we see this as an important investment in your kitchen design, we also know you don’t have the blow your whole budget on high-end counters. We strongly recommend quartz (manmade to look like stone) and quartzite or leathered granite counters, both of which are natural materials. There are so many options and often can mimic the high end look of marble and soapstone which are both more costly and harder to maintain.

Here are some of our best recommendations:

Shadow Quartz made to look like marble, but easier to maintain and much less expensive.

Honed Granite that provides a similar look to soapstone.

3. Lighting Cheap lighting can make even the most expensive kitchen look flat. Proper scale and finish in your pendants ensure the room feels cohesive rather than “pieced together.” I have pulled together my top lighting picks for kitchens to help take out some of the guess work.

SHOP THE FULL COLLECTION OF KITCHEN LIGHTING HERE:

FunCycled can help you navigate these selections! From sourcing hardware that won’t dent or peel to assisting with counter selection, we ensure your “spend” items look and perform like a dream.

Mindful Visual Touches: Where to Save

This is where the magic happens and your personality can shine. All while saving you on your budget!

The Cabinetry Secret The biggest expense in a kitchen remodel is almost always new cabinetry. But here is the truth: if your layout works, you are sitting on a goldmine. Painting your existing kitchen cabinets is a “visual illusion” that can literally save you tens of thousands of dollars compared to a full gut-job.

When done professionally, the finish is factory-smooth and incredibly durable. You get the look of a $100K custom kitchen for a fraction of the cost.

• Check out our Before & After Gallery here to see the FunCycled transformation in action!

Affordable Tile You don’t need $40-per-square-foot hand-pressed tiles to make a statement. Many ceramic tiles fall into a very affordable range (under $10!) and can offer beautiful finishes and texture to your kitchen. This helps create warmth. Ceramic tiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes. I have pulled some classic selections that will work in so many designs.

SHOP THIS CERAMIC SUBWAY TILE IN NEUTRAL

SHOP THIS PICKET CERAMIC TILE IN BREEZE

SHOP THIS “HANDMADE” SQUARE 6X6 CERAMIC TILE

• The Pro Move: Buy a classic, affordable subway tile and install it in a unique pattern—like a vertical stack or a double herringbone. It looks custom, but the material cost stays low.

The “Smart Add-on”: Appliances & Tech

Looking for one more way to balance the budget? Let’s talk about Appliances. Unless you are a professional chef, you likely don’t need a $15,000 range. This is a great place to find “middle-ground” luxury. Look for reliable, highly-rated brands that offer a high-end aesthetic without the commercial price tag.

We love the Cafe Collection. It offers a high end look without the sticker price!

SHOP THE CAFE RANGE HERE

Removing the Fear: “Will it Last?”

When considering what choices to make in your kitchen remodel, the big fear we hear is: “If I don’t replace everything, will it look ‘cheap’ in two years?” The answer is a firm no. By spending your money on the “touchpoints” (hardware, counters, and fixtures) and saving on the “bones” (by painting cabinets and choosing smart tile), you create a kitchen that is high-functioning and high-fashion.

Ready to Transform Your Kitchen?

You don’t have to wait years to afford a “Pinterest-worthy” kitchen. You can start by upgrading your hardware or booking a cabinet transformation. Let’s get started! We specialize in elevating existing cabinetry with custom trim and professional finishes and helping you make selections that will add value to your home. Contact us today to get a personalized FREE KITCHEN CABINET PAINTING QUOTE, or Book a 1 – Hour Design Consultation.

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. 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.

Take a look at your kitchen. Is it functional, but lacks energy? Does it feel heavy, even though it has an open layout? That is exactly where our clients were when they approached us about updating their space.

The original kitchen had high-end bones, including an incredible Wolf range and beautiful natural oak floors, but the dark espresso cabinets, busy brown granite, and beige square backsplash were trapping the light. The room felt weighed down and dated.

Our goal wasn’t to rip everything out and start from scratch. Instead, we approached this project through the lens of strategic interior design: reimagining the surfaces, playing with contrast, and bringing in a softer palette to lighten the room.

The Design Challenge: From Heavy and Dark to Light and Airy

The “before” kitchen was a classic example of early-2000s design trends. While the dark wood cabinets were high quality, they absorbed almost all the ambient light from the surrounding living spaces. Paired with a heavy, multi-toned granite, the perimeter of the room felt visually crowded.

Our client wanted a kitchen that felt breezy, modern, and sophisticated. They needed a space that felt custom and intentional, not cookie-cutter. By keeping the existing layout and the premium appliances, they were able to focus the budget entirely on high-impact design elements: color, textures, and finishes.

Why Blue Cabinets with White Counters Are the Perfect Match

If you are looking to step away from the traditional all-white kitchen without committing to a dark, moody palette, blue cabinets with white counters are the ultimate design solution. This combination strikes a perfect balance, offering a distinct personality while remaining entirely timeless.

Selecting the Perfect Shade of Muted Blue

We moved away from stark whites or deep navies and instead opted for a sophisticated, dusty blue-gray for the cabinet painting. This specific shade acts as a colorful neutral. It brings a calm, coastal-meets-modern energy to the space, instantly making the cabinetry feel lighter and more architectural.

These cabinets were painted in Santorini Blue by Benjamin Moore. This color is so soft but still offers a certain depth and richness.

Anchoring the Space with a White Quartz Waterfall Edge

To complement the new cabinetry color, the client paired the look with simple, clean white quartz countertops. But the real showstopper here is the waterfall edge on the peninsula. By wrapping the quartz seamlessly down the side of the cabinetry, it anchors the room, creates a clean sightline from the living areas, and acts as a massive reflector for natural light.

The Finishing Touches: Hardware and a Statement Backsplash

In interior design, the major surfaces lay the foundation, but the details tell the story. To tie the blue cabinetry and white quartz together, we curated elements that added height and warmth.

Drawing the Eye Up with a Vertical Picket Tile

Instead of standard subway tile, we selected a stunning, elongated picket tile for the statement backsplash. By installing these tiles vertically rather than horizontally, we created a subtle visual trick that draws the eye upward, making the kitchen ceilings feel significantly taller.

This is the tile we selected for this kitchen.

SHOP THE TILE HERE

The soft variation in the tile tones bridges the gap between the crisp white counters and the blue cabinets.

Adding the “Jewelry” with Modern Gold Hardware

To prevent the blue and white palette from feeling too cool or clinical, we introduced elongated, satin gold cabinet pulls with a textured grip. The gold tones bring an immediate sense of luxury, and more importantly, they beautifully mirror the warmth of the original hardwood floors, tying the entire room together.

These are the cabinet pulls we selected for this kitchen.

SHOP THEM HERE

The Power of a Strategic Kitchen Makeover

This transformation is proof that you don’t need to knock down walls or completely gut a kitchen to achieve a luxury, custom look. By pairing professional cabinet painting with a stunning waterfall quartz edge, a thoughtful vertical backsplash, and the right hardware, the kitchen was entirely reborn.

The natural wood floors now look vibrant, the gold fixtures pop against the crisp finishes, and the entire main floor of the home feels brighter and more welcoming.

Ready to reimagine your own space? Contact us today to schedule a design consultation and find out how we can transform your kitchen from heavy to heavenly.

Ready for Your Own Transformation?

Whether you are staring at a dark and dated kitchen or a lacklustre living room, 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. We offer VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON consultations, so we can work with you no matter where you are located.

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.

If FunCycled had a signature color (other than my favorite—teal!), it might just be green. There is a reason we find ourselves returning to this palette time and time again; the color green possesses so much resilience, depth, and vitality while still offering a sense of grounding and serenity. Beyond the aesthetic, green embodies the richness of the earth and serves as a constant reminder of our responsibility in stewarding what we have and where we live.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at FunCycled. We believe you can achieve high-end, beautiful design while honoring the planet. This Earth Month, we’re taking “going green” literally. We’re diving into some of our favorite sustainable green kitchen trends, showcasing the transformative power of a fresh coat of paint on existing cabinetry, and sharing our top eco-friendly swaps to help you curate a kitchen that looks good and does good.

From Evergreen to Sage: Our Favorite Green Kitchen Transformations

The most sustainable kitchen is often the one you already have. By refinishing existing cabinets rather than sending them to a landfill, we reduce waste and give high-quality wood a second life. Here are a few of our favorite “green” transformations from the FunCycled archives:

High-Drama Depth: Black Evergreen by Behr & Tarrytown Green

For those who love a moody, sophisticated look, Black Evergreen by Behr and Tarrytown Green by Benjamin Moore are absolute showstoppers. These deep tones offer incredible resilience and a sense of history. They anchor a room, making even the oldest cabinets feel modern and architectural.

This is Tarrytown Green:

This is Black Evergreen

This is Black Evergreen

Classic Sophistication: Lafayette Green & Cedar Mountains

If you want a color that feels like a walk through the woods, Lafayette Green and Cedar Mountains (both by Benjamin Moore) provide that perfect balance of vitality and calm. These shades play beautifully with natural wood tones and brass hardware, grounding the kitchen in organic beauty.

This is Lafayette Green

This is Cedar Mountains

Curating a Conscious Kitchen: Our Eco-Friendly Essentials

Once the cabinets are painted, the next step in embracing sustainable green kitchen trends is looking at the products we use every day. We’ve curated a list of our favorite earth-honoring picks to help you finish the look.

Sustainable Surfaces: Earth-Honoring Tile & Backsplash

When updating your backsplash, look for recycled glass tiles or handmade ceramics. These options reduce the carbon footprint of your remodel while adding unique, artisanal texture to your walls.

For a polished and uniform look, ceramic or porcelain offerings work really well. Be sure to check for how the materials are sourced. I like this one below. It is not only really elevated, it is GREENGUARD Gold Certified which means it meets low VOC standards and offers a healthier air quality in your home.

These are beautiful hand-made tiles made from clay in Morrocco. This is a gorgeous blue, but this company offers a variety of colors.

Illuminating Change: Ethical Lighting Solutions

Lighting is the jewelry of the kitchen. We love sourcing fixtures made from recycled metals or sustainable woven materials like rattan and bamboo. It’s a bright way to stay eco-conscious.

This beautiful woven pendant is great for over an island or round table in your kitchen. I love the natural rattan material on display.

This is another great pendant option. Constructed from textured and recycled bamboo, the simple lines of this pendant work really well for minimalist, MCM, or even modern farmhouse designs.

The Daily Swap: Sustainable Staples & Storage

True stewardship happens in the small moments. Swap out containers made with high toxin plastics for glass storage sets or recycled materials sourced from non-toxic & organic materials. and trade worn-out plastic tools for bamboo or FSC-certified wood cooking utensils.

I really love these storage options from Caraway Home.

These teak utensils are really functional and eco-friendly.

For many food items, wooden cutting boards are a great option. I like these sourced from solid wood and natural materials.

How to Start Your “Green” Journey Today

Creating a sustainable home doesn’t have to happen overnight. If you are feeling inspired this Earth Month, here is how we recommend you begin:

1. Start Small with the Basics: You don’t need a full demo to make a difference. Start by swapping out your daily staples, such as food storage or cooking utensils. These small changes add up to a big impact over time.
2. Brighten Up with Efficiency: Lighting is one of the easiest ways to “go green” technically. Swap out old, energy-draining bulbs for high-efficiency LEDs that mimic natural light. Not only does this reduce your energy consumption, but it also perfectly highlights the rich undertones of colors like Black Evergreen or Lafayette Green.
3. Refresh Instead of Replace: Consider a kitchen refresh by using what you already have. By painting your existing cabinets and updating elements like lighting or backsplashes with materials that honor the earth, you reduce waste while creating a space that feels brand new.

At FunCycled, we believe your home should be a reflection of your values. Let’s make this year the year your kitchen truly “goes green.”

You can shop all of our Sustainable Kitchen Finds by clicking the image and link below!

Ready to Upcylce Your Kitchen Cabinets?

There is no need to spend $50k (or more) on new cabinets when your current ones may only need a refresh with custom professional kitchen cabinet painting.

Wondering if you should get new kitchen cabinets or paint your existing? Check out our Painting Vs Replacing Calculator.

Serving Albany County, Rensselaer County, Saratoga County, Columbia County, and Schenectady Country (any home up to an hour from Troy, NY).

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.

If you would like to know a more personalized estimate, 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. 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.

Why Kitchen Lighting Matters More Than You Think

Lighting sets the tone in any room, but in the kitchen it is especially important. The right fixture can make meal prep easier, highlight design details, and create a welcoming atmosphere for gatherings. Poor lighting, on the other hand, can make even the most beautiful kitchen feel dull or impractical. Choosing fixtures that balance both function and style is key.

BEST Kitchen Island Lighting for Every Style – Quick Link

Check out this quick link to shop our top picks to accommodate your island or peninsula. Our collection offers options for EVERY kitchen style. QUICKLY SHOP HERE.

Island Lighting: Choosing Between One Large Fixture or Multiple Pendants

Kitchen islands are the hub of activity, often serving as a prep station, dining area, and homework spot. That means island lighting needs to be practical and adaptable. For larger islands, one oversized fixture can provide ample light while making a bold design statement.

Keep scale in mind: a fixture that feels too small will get lost,
while one that is too large can overwhelm the space.

Pro tip from the Funcycled Design team

For smaller or more elongated islands (or like this T-shape island), two or three pendants may work better, offering balance and an even spread of light.

Peninsula Lighting: Extending Style and Function Around the “L”

Peninsulas often benefit from the same thoughtful lighting approach as islands. Continuing pendants around the curve of an L-shaped peninsula can create both style and function, especially if overhead cabinets are removed to make room for the fixtures.

Open shelving is a great way to free up visual space, allowing pendants to provide both light and architectural interest. Be sure to center pendant lighting over the sink or key work areas for symmetry and ease of use.

Don’t let your lighting float! Center your pendants directly over the sink or prep station. It’s the easiest way to achieve instant architectural symmetry while ensuring your brightest light is exactly
where you need it most.

pro tip from the funcycled design team

Coordinating Fixtures Without Matching Them

In many homes, the kitchen connects to a breakfast nook or dining area. Lighting choices should feel intentional across these spaces, but that does not mean every fixture has to match. Choosing complementary finishes, shapes, or styles creates cohesion while allowing each zone to maintain its own identity. The key is to coordinate without duplicating, giving the overall space a curated and polished feel.

In this kitchen design, we wanted to ensure the island in this design felt anchored and still visually connected to the adjoining eating nook. To accomplish this, we chose to use similarly styled pendants that shared the same finish.

Here’s a close up of the pendants used over the island.

And here’s a close up of the pendant selected for the eating area.

Final Thoughts

Being careful with your lighting selection is one of the quickest ways to really elevate your home. If you would like a few more tips on selecting the right lighting, check out my helpful tips in this video

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by FunCycled by Sarah Trop (@funcycled)

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. 

Want to get more helpful design tips? Then 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. 

FunCycled offers 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, so I earn from any qualifying purchases associated with those links.

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.

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 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!

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.

Almost Black by Benjamin Moore

Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore

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.

Hardware from Amazon

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.