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Kitchen Renovation: Week 3 Update

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New here? Read about my kitchen renovation part 1 or part 2

I think I’m doing this a bit backwards. Today’s post will be about kitchen inspiration. Why? Well, because we decided to take a break from the kitchen reno this past weekend. We needed a weekend of just NOT dealing with it.

I took naps. I started pulling out my fall decor. I watched a marathon of Beachfront Bargain Hunt. It was glorious to just not work, truth be told.

I have some General Finishes milk paint samples on the way in both the Snow White and Seagull Gray colors, and once those get in I’ll go back into kitchen reno mode. We do have a spot to patch up on the kitchen ceiling near the sink. We’ll install the track light again and the new chandelier (which got here today…the box is sitting on my dining room table). After that, it’s time to commit one way or another. Stain or paint?

Here’s my conundrum: Is it a home reno sin to paint over high quality oak cabinets? Will I hate painted grain? Those are the deep thoughts I have about 42 times a day. I know staining is easier, but I’m also not one to shy away from some hard work if the results are worth it, KWIM?

These are the kitchens that have me dreaming of gray or white cabinets with brass hardware. Source is under each photo:

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Design Manifest

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

The Sweetest Digs

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Burlap and Blue (Design by Caitlin Wilson) Those coral accents…in love.

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Design Manifest (Faucet can be found here)

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Decor Pad (Design by Meredith Heron)

I know some of you are dead set against two-toned kitchens, so I know that no matter what I pick I will have people who had hoped I had gone in the opposite direction. In terms of resale, I think some buyers will hate it, but on the other hand, some buyers may think it’s unique and trendy. The brass hardware can easily be swapped back to the satin nickel hardware we have now, so the brass isn’t permanent. 

And because I am an accessories maven, here are my some fab (and cheap!) gold/brass kitchen finds:

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Brass Cake Stand // $17.99

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Metal Canister & Soap Pump // $9.95 each

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Steve Vase // $12.95

Brass kitchen inspiration via monicawantsit.com

Gold Barware // $79

Hopefully the next post about the kitchen will involve me showing you all some painted/stained samples of oak, the newly installed chandelier, and the finished ceiling. I should just flip a coin, but chances are I’d flip it over and over getting me right back to indecisive lane. 

I’ll be back soon to show you all how to print your own custom satin ribbons…this little gadget is so amazing. Can’t wait to make custom ribbons for all the things!

Phase 1: Monica Wants It Kitchen Renovation Checklist

-Open up the kitchen layout (done!)

-Remove Popcorn Ceiling (done!)

-Paint Air Vent (done! $4)

-Paint Ceiling (in progress- $88 for paint & supplies)

-New Light Fixture for Bay Window/Breakfast Area (done! $133)

-Possible(?) New Fixture to Replace Track Lighting (keeping current one)

-Stain/Paint Cabinets

-Paint Walls

-Add in 4 More Recessed Lights

-Add Open Shelving  (adding a TV)

-New Cabinet Hardware

-Misc. Accessories/Supplies

-Table/Chairs/Bench for Breakfast Nook

-New Roman Shades for Bay Windows

-Add Moldings to Peninsula and Breakfast Area

Budget: $1,500 

Total Spent: $225 to Date

Monique Henderson

Thursday 27th of August 2015

Hey cant wait to see. I especially want to see this ceiling medallion of yours! By the way, Centsational Girl just posted her kitchen remodel with White Upper Cabinets and Grey Lower Ones. Maybe you should pop over and take a peek. Maybe it will help you in deciding which what to go.

KolourfulKate

Thursday 27th of August 2015

I LOVE the grey with white - (google Kendall Charcoal Benjamin Moore) there's a few kitchens that have been my inspiration with the two tone - LOVE! Can't say I love the brass but that is because I am still removing all the 80's brass out of my house and yours is much nicer obviously. Love your blog and about to start staining my vanity!! Wish me luck! Cheers from Nova Scotia :)

Monica Benavidez

Thursday 27th of August 2015

Hi Kate! I love Kendall Charcoal and am painting my dining room that color as soon as I get this kitchen done. It's a gorgeous color, right? Good luck on your vanity project- I know it'll turn out great. Thanks for dropping by.

marty (A Stroll Thru Life)

Thursday 27th of August 2015

Oh I do understand how difficult this all is. Can't wait to see what you do. Love those accessories too, especially that brass cake stand.

Monica Benavidez

Thursday 27th of August 2015

I think I'm gonna bite the bullet and buy the cake stand. It'll encourage me to bake this fall. :)

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