
Who doesn’t like a kitchen transformation??? Painted cabinets, open shelving, backsplash – the reveal of fresh renewal sparks joys and energy like nothing else. Today’s kitchen reveal is my favorite that FunCycled has completed this year. Let’s explore together!
The “Before”: Closed Off Kitchen Ready for a Refresh
Before you start any renovation project (large, minor, or somewhere in between), I encourage clients to take some time to evaluate what is working and what isn’t working. In our efforts to update our homes, it is important to bear in mind the features and functions of a space that we value and are actually working for us and our families. Don’t be too hasty to remove everything and start over – that will cost you greatly, and you may actually eliminate aspects that really work well for you.
After meeting with Joanne, it became clear that her kitchen worked in some regards. It had a good amount of storage and also had room for eating in without overcrowding the space. However, we identified that the ample storage (while valuable) was creating a barrier in their living space and was not really needed. Additionally, though she had a good amount of counter space, she still needed more for prepping. Plus, there was quite a bit of space between any prep space and cooking area. We would need to bridge that gap with a new island. Take a look at some of the before photos for this kitchen.



Our Vision: Brightening and Streamlining the Space – Showcasing Color and Character
After reviewing the needs and wishes for my client, it was time to plan and design. The design board I created for Joanne’s kitchen is below.

And for the plan, we identified these key components:
- open things up so there was no break between the family room and kitchen,
- modify the storage solutions by adding an island, hutch, and pull out drawers in the pantry cabinets
- create additional seating
- add personality and color and create some focal points
- update counters and finishes for an elevated and cohesive design
Cabinet Painting: Breathing New Life into Existing Structures
Selecting the right color for your cabinets is key to the design and look of your kitchen. For this kitchen we wanted to brighten, add color, and make a statement that was reflective of our client’s personality. The biggest impact was made with the paint color. We selected this gorgeous color by Benjamin Moore.
This is a rich medium to deep blue, with an understated versatility. It can be paired with a variety of finishes, depending upon the desired outcome. For our design, it was paired with bright whites and classic gold and brass accents.
Look at how rich this color looks on the cabinets!


Opening Up: The Impact of Open Shelving
It may seem counter-intuitive to take down storage and replace it with open shelves, but so often, opening things up (Discuss the removal of some upper cabinets and the installation/styling of open shelves)

Here’s a look at the progression of the transition from overhead cabinets to opening up and styling!



A Fresh Look: New Backsplash & Counters
Next to the rich blue of the cabinets, this stunning backsplash makes such a huge statement in this kitchen design. It brings together so many elements that elevate the look! I am so glad our client was open to a unique design that will most definitely stand the test of time! We selected these textured gold handles for the cabinets – doors and drawers. You can shop these for your home as well.


To create an elevated look in your kitchen, use the same hardware on the cabinet doors and drawers, using a variety of sizes in scale with the size of the doors and drawers.
pro tip from the funcycled design team
New counters were installed, which meant we could reconfigure some of the layout for this space. Here’s a closer look at the new counters we selected.

The “After”: A Stunning and Functional Kitchen Transformation
Details all pulled together, and this kitchen is simply AMAZING! It has function, flow, and personality. Joanne and her family are ready to host guests in style!



Two eating areas will provide this family with choices for meal times and allows for additional seating for larger gatherings.



More Kitchen Transformation Inspiration
Here are some other great kitchen transformations from FunCycled.
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!

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Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ; )
Exquisite Spaces. Sustainable Designs. Brighter Futures.
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