We're starting the project in less than 2 weeks and I couldn't be more excited! Not much has changed from our original plan except we'll be keeping our current custom built range hood. I thought about replacing it with a simple stainless hood, but it seems like a shame to remove something that was so well made (and probably cost a lot!). To give it an updated look, we'll remove the corbels and decorative flowers and give the whole thing a fresh coat of white paint to match the cabinets. Yep, that's a new stove. We already bought new stainless appliances. :)
We're replacing the travertine backsplash. Again, it's really nice just not our style. We're going to use subway tile and I'm leaning towards a taupe or gray/blue color.
{Image from here}
To save money, we're keeping our existing granite countertops. They're not my favorite and if I could start from scratch I'd pick a carrera marble look-alike (we're not clean enough or careful enough for the real thing). I was kind of bumming about our dark counters and wasn't sure how they'd look with the white cabinets I've been longing for. I found this picture of Michelle at Ten June's kitchen and noticed that her countertops are almost identical to mine...and I don't hate it. I think it looks pretty darn good actually.
{Image from Ten June}
We have an abundance of cabinetry in our kitchen which is awesome for storage but I wanted to break it up a bit and add some open shelving. We're removing the corner cabinet next to the stove and adding some shelving in its place. This will also free up some counter space next to the sink.
I had my heart set on something like the photo below, but I haven't been able to find it. I think it may have been custom made. :( I won't be shelling out the big bucks for something custom so what will go in this corner is still TBD.
The lighting above the island is also getting an upgrade.
I've been eyeing a few different styles and haven't settled on one yet. Here are a few of my favorites:
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For the floors, we're using a dark gray textured porcelain tile that looks a lot like slate. We're installing it in a staggered pattern and it should look something like the photo below except with gray grout.
{Image from here}
We're carrying the floors through to our foyer and side hall. Buh bye ugly entry way!
I'm a little worried that with the gray floors and gray walls people may get damn near depressed walking into our home so repainting the walls might be another 2013 project. #donttellmyhusbandhepaintedmostofthisroom.
We'll also be knocking down a wall and completely renovating our halfbath/laundry room. I'll share details with you soon!
