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:

Design Manifest

The Sweetest Digs

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

Design Manifest (Faucet can be found here)

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 Cake Stand // $17.99

Metal Canister & Soap Pump // $9.95 each

Steve Vase // $12.95

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