Wednesday, March 25, 2009

KITCHEN MAKEOVER IDEAS

Here's the latest inexpensive kitchen makeover idea from a British designer: Create an "unfitted kitchen" without built-in cabinets or appliances. Instead, use free-standing cabinets and appliances in a variety of shapes and materials. Try simple shelves instead of cabinets, use an island to work on, and limit other countertop space. It will look like a kitchen from the 1930s. This idea might go over in England, but U.S. kitchen makeover TV shows stress how important matching appliances, cabinets, trim, and tile or granite countertops (and a budget topping $25,000) are if you want to impress people and sell your house.

5 comments:

Beth said...

I've always preferred a vintage kitchen. "Modern" kitchens, with their granite countertops and s/s appliances, leave me cold.

Anonymous said...

I prefer a kitchen that is easy to work in and easy to clean. My own kitchen (which I designed)has plenty of counterspace and smooth-faced cabinets and appliances that are easy to clean. I grew up with a 30's kitchen. I am thankful that I don't have one now!

Anonymous said...

I agree with Beth totally. Granite countertops and stainless steel 'anything' will be, in the near future, the same as the 1970's 'avacado' kitchens are now. Also there is nothing worse than seeing a beautiful old house, and when you enter, the interior is completely gutted and 'madeover' rendering it completely devoid of original details and charm. Quite a shocking and sickening experience.

Anonymous said...

Can someone suggest sources for photos of the new English kitchens?

ImNoDhimmi said...

My 1950s farmhouse in beautiful Nova Scotia has a vintage kitchen, with original countertop and sink, open shelves, and a free standing Chatham cupboard (similar to an American Hoosier) as well as an antique pie safe, and a glass doored cabinet from a doctor's office. The woodstove adds a cozy touch. I like my kitchen to be warm and welcoming, not a sterile laboratory.