Our Kitchen Remodel: A Fresh Look Without Starting from Scratch

When we first moved in, I knew the kitchen would be the first space we tackled. It had great bones, but it needed some love—and a few smart updates to make it feel more like us.

While we considered tearing everything out and starting from scratch, we ultimately decided to keep the existing cabinets. Not only did this help us stay on budget, but it allowed us to put more into other meaningful updates that completely transformed the space.

One of the biggest layout changes we made was closing off the closet door that led into the laundry room. Removing that entry helped streamline the space and gave us more room to work with visually.

From there, we gave the whole kitchen a facelift with:

    •    New paint for a fresh, clean feel

    •    A beautiful new backsplash tile that adds the perfect touch of texture

    •    All new appliances: fridge, dishwasher, microwave, and stove

    •    Updated lighting to brighten things up

    •    And one of my favorite additions: banquette seating—cozy, functional, and perfect for everyday meals or morning coffee

It’s amazing how just a few changes (and a little paint!) can make a space feel totally new. I love how it turned out—warm, welcoming, and much more our style.

If you’re thinking about remodeling but want to keep it realistic, this is proof that you don’t have to start from zero to create a beautiful, functional kitchen. Thoughtful updates can go a long way!

—Samantha