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Tag: JBD Kitchen Renovation

Choosing Kitchen Appliances

Appliances are a pertinent component of the kitchen.

Not only are they the primary purpose for cooking + food prep, but appliances contribute a large part to the overall aesthetic.

Basically the appliances have 2 major roles… they have to be highly-functional AND look fabulous!  They’re a big deal!

Tips for CHOOSING KITCHEN APPLIANCES. I just finished a kitchen renovation and share my tips from shopping + why I chose the appliances I did . www.JennaBurger.com

When it came time to choose appliances for our kitchen remodel, I chose Frigidaire.  I had just finished up a client project and after scouring big box + local appliance stores for appliances ranging from budget-friendly to commerical-grade, we both fell in love with the Smudge-Proof collection.

For about the last 15 years, stainless steel finish has been the top choice for kitchen appliances.  The utilitartian look makes us feel like we’re in a commercial kitchen – and doesn’t that make you cook better?  Maybe in my mind… Restaurants have always turned to stainless because it stands up to wear + tear and it holds up to high heat, better than paint.

The downside of stainless, the smudges.  A small issue for some, but with a load of kids (like we have), it can seem like the solid stainless surface is never clean.  Enter… SMUDGE -PROOF. The solution to all world problems.  totally kidding. well kinda.

Resist Fingerprints on your appliances with SMUDGE-PROOF stainless steel by Frigidaire

Appliances in my kitchen: Gas Range / Hood / Refrigerator / Dishwasher / Microwave

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Aside from the surface – stainless, white, black – of the appliance, here are a few tips when choosing appliances to suit your style + budget.

TIPS BEFORE YOU APPLIANCE SHOPPING

> The Layout.  Before setting out to choose appliances, finalize the layout of the kitchen first to determine what you’ll need + the sizes.

> Budget. Appliances come in a range of price-points and are dependent on the power they provide + the look you want.  Determine a budget what you want to spend, then SHOP.

> Microwave. In many kitchens, the microwave is over the range.  For compact spaces this is a great solution to maximize on space. BUT if you have the space to locate the microwave in another spot (ours is in the island), I would.  The range is more often or not, one of the major focal points of the kitchen that your eye is drawn to. No matter the size of the range (ours is 36″ wide, which is typical), you can make a statement above.

I chose an exposed hood for above the range.  The impact on the overall look outweighs the small lose of storage by eliminating a cabinet.  Need storage above the range? Consider a concealed hood with a decorative mantel which provides space for a cabinet above.

> Refrigerator.  Choosing a refrigerator can be overwhelming.  The selection is vast!  Refrigerators from years past are deep (32-35″ +), which makes them stick out way beyond the countertop depth (typically 25″).  I would recommend a refrigerator that is counter depth or a style that is no more than 27″ deep.  The door of these models sit forward of the counter, but the overall depth compared to older refrigerators is much less.

Having a refrig that isn’t as deep leaves more area form traffic flow – bonus!

> Range. Are you a baker? You need a convection oven. My new oven has convection bake + roast capibilities, which means heat is distributed throughout the oven more evenly rather than heat being emitted from the oven walls only as with a conventional oven. It took some getting used to because when suing the convection setting, the oven auto-adjusts, but overall I am loving the results.

Also with the range, look at the cooktop surface.  Again, lots of options in this area.  I chose a model that has a continuous grate top versus 4 separate burners.  This allows me to move pots / pans easily + to fit more.  Additionally, there is a 2-in-1 burner + griddle, which is ideal for simmering sauces, as well as flipping pancackes.

> Dishwasher. To me a dishwasher is a dishwasher.  Consider what you like / don’t like about your existing style and start from there.  Does it make too much noise?  My new dishwasher is quiet-as-a-church-mouse and actually reflects a blue light onto the floor so you know the cycle has ended.  Or do you not like the inside configuration for plates and glasses?  Look for a model that has flexibility for the top + bottom racks.

> The Handle. A small detail to some, but a huge detail to me which reflects the overall look of a kitchen… The Handles.  Remember, it’s all about the details.  When choosing appliances, *try* to find a collection you like – like the smudge-proof collection – or one manufacturer so the handles on various appliances match.  You wouldn’t have various pulls and knobs on your cabinets, right?

> The Finish.  Whether stainless or painted, every manufacturer has a variation of stainless or white. Again, try to choose a collection so the finish is the same for each.

Appliances are a lot of money.  They are an investment.  And a lot of time + research can go into choosing the right model for your style + budget. It can be quite daunting, but hopefully with the tips I’ve shared, it makes the process a bit less stressful.

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S AND FRIGIDAIRE.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Renovation: Details

I’m overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness + sweet thoughts for the new kitchen space.

It being called, A HAPPY KITCHEN, was by far my favorite comment because that just completely + perfectly sums up the new setting.  A happy space is exactly how I envisioned the new kitchen to look + feel.

As a whole, the kitchen from top to bottom is entirely new, and last weeks KITCHEN REVEAL post focused on the before + after, as well as the overall design & changes.  But there is still so much more to tell… a follow up post to share the nitty-gritty details + thought-process of WHY & HOW the design came to be, had to be told…

When the planning process of the kitchen renovation began, I started by focusing on the big picture; the space as a whole.  From there I put my efforts into spending time on the details + layers.  This attention to the smaller elements is what really makes a space complete and unique.

Upon making the decision to change the layout & have the new cabinetry be white, I set out to find inspiration.  Before putting together the mood board for the new space, I wanted to analyze + dissect other kitchens to see what elements I liked and didn’t like.  With this process, along with my past experience designing client kitchens, here is a list I created as to what details were important and needed extra focus + attention:

> tile backsplash

> open shelving

> outlets

> cabinet hardware

> lighting

> color

> storage

With attention to detail in these 7 areas, I knew my kitchen would be set apart from the norm.

Here’s How…

1. TILE BACKSPLASH

The white subway tile I chose is probably the most common + least expensive tile out there.  Yes, very ordinary. That’s okay though, because I was still going to set it apart from the others.

How? Grout and Layout.

Instead of choosing a grout color that coordinated with the tile (which would’ve been white), I chose to use a contrasting grout color.  Lowe’s has a display with all their grout colors and with a sample of the island color in hand – a dark grey called Greyloft by Kraftmaid – I chose a grout color that matched.  By choosing a like color to the island, this allowed the deep hue to carry through in other areas of the kitchen.  The dark island color wouldn’t be a stand-alone in one spot but instead a common thread throughout.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

The staggered / brick layout of the subway tile is Oh So Norm, BUT I set it apart by continuing the tile behind the hood, as well as up and around the window.  Instead of stopping the tile at the line of the upper cabinets, I continued it up to heighten the space.  Additionally, the tile was installed behind the open shelves, which makes the space feel larger.

>>> CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS ON THE TILE INSTALLATION

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

2. OPEN SHELVING

Since we’re on that subject, let’s jump right in…  Open Shelving.  Most of you would never think of open shelving in the kitchen.  Who would want to display plastic cups + mismatched dishes?!  Wrong my friends…  My kitchen doesn’t have all open shelving.  In actuality only a small portion of the space has open shelves.  Like you, I have cups, plates, and a lot of other things that I want hidden.  And those things are behind closed doors.  BUT, I do have some nice dishes, pretty glasses, and colorful bowls.  All perfect for display + easy access to grab.

Why open shelving? Shelves add depth, openness, and a way to introduce color.  Look through your cabinets and figure out how many ‘nice’ things you have to display, then figure out how much open shelving is appropriate for your kitchen.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

3. OUTLETS

Still on the subject of the backsplash, outlet locations are important to figure out during the design phase.  More often or not, outlets are typically every 18-24″ apart and are positioned half way between the counter and the upper cabinets.  So basically, they’re an eyesore smack in the center of the tile.  Outlet placement can be daunting, but avoid the eyesore mistake by giving thought to the outlet placement BEFORE you renovate.

Moving the outlets lower, about 3″ above the counter, and to a horizontal position, will help keep them out of sight and in line with your appliance plugs. As an alternative, try one horizontal outlet on the backsplash for the appliances / items that sit permanent on the counter – think beforehand about where they’ll be placed – then add outlets to the underside of the upper cabinet for the temporary plug-in / take-out items.

The outlets in my new backplash can barely be seen…

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

And please always use GFCI outlets above countertop level to avoid electrocution!

Outlets in the island is another area of focus.  You want + need outlets in the island (and they are required by building code), but it is important to place them in a pleasant looking place.  Have a recessed panel on the side of the island?  Be sure the outlet is centered and position it in the same orientation as the backsplash.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Aside from the major appliances – refrig, micro, hood – it’s important to think about what will be going where when the kitchen is finished.  I knew I wanted to create a coffee station + charging station in the new pantry next to the refrigerator.  With the specs of the cabinet – showing the heights – in hand, the contractor and I layed out the outlets to provide electric for our needs.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

4. CABINET HARDWARE

Hardware (and lighting, which I’ll get to) is like the jewelry for an outfit.  A black shirt + jeans are nice, but the outfit is set apart by the layers that are added.  That is where hardware plays a huge part in a kitchen!  White cabinets + White backsplash in a kitchen are pretty norm, but it was the details that were added that set it apart from others.  I had this nutty idea about placing the cabinet hardware in the center of cabinet doors instead of at the side which is typical.  Because many of the doors lined up with the drawers below, I had a feeling it was going to look stellar as a whole.  In the end, it did!

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

I chose polished nickel for the modern cup pulls and they are bold.  Against the basic, minimal door, they shine.  Truly, the polished pulls shine and make a statement.

Doors are doors, make a statement with the hardware!

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

5. LIGHTING

I’m a lighting snob.  I like big lights and I can not lie! that was corny… sorry.

Seriously though, big or small, lighting is important.

I had a difficult time with the lighting because I knew it would make or break the new space.  I didn’t feel polished nickel lights (to match the cabinet hardware) would work well in our open concept home where the other lights are black / dark.  I found these gorgeous statement-worthy pendants from Rejuvenation and hit place order.  They took a few weeks to arrive and when they were installed, the kitchen looked truly complete.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white + gray cabinets, open shelves, subway backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

For the pendant over the sink, I chose something that was different but that coordinated well with the oversized island pendants.  This prism pentagon pendant was the right match.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

6. COLOR

I’m a color person.  I heart color. Yet everything was white. What? I knew when all was complete, the kitchen would come alive with the layers of color that I would add. From the dishes to glasses to artwork to food, this kitchen comes alive with the color that has been injected into it with all the layers.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

7. STORAGE

The insides of the cabinets are truly just as important as the exterior. The insides of the Kraftmaid cabinets are filled with savvy storage components.  Everything has a place.  There is no question of what goes where…

These are a few favorites…

Full depth cabinet above the refrigerator with Vertical Dividers, perfect for trays, cookies sheets, and more…

Full depth cabinet above the refrigerator with Vertical Dividers, perfect for trays, cookies sheets, and more!

Trash Bin + Recycling Pull Out… no more floating garbage can in the center of the kitchen.

Trash Bin + Recycling Pull Out... no more floating garbage can in the center of the kitchen

Tilt Tray at the sink front to hold sponges + clothes, which eliminates sitting on the counter.

Tilt Tray at the sink front to hold sponges + clothes

Full extension roll-out drawers in the base cabinets so from front to back, everything can be seen!

Roll-out drawers in the base cabinet

As you can see, the details are important and those details are what make up the whole to create something different.  The details are what make the kitchen stand out of the norm.  Most elements are typical and ‘most popular’ but it’s how they are mixed together that sets them apart.

One more post coming soon… the Resources of the kitchen.  I’m sharing all the scoop of where I shopped!

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S, KRAFTMAID, FRIGIDAIRE, AND HGTV HOME BY SHERWIN WILLIAMS.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + Resources

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

In less than a month, we’ll be living in our home 6 years.  6 years. The fastest 6 of my life. More than double the time of any place we’ve lived before.

We moved here as a family of 3 and now we’re a family of 5 + a cute white little kitty. Life has changed so much and as much as our family + lives have evolved, so has the house we stepped in to – and almost walked away from – 6 years ago.

The shell that was a vacant house, has been transformed into a home.  A chaotic, crazy, bustling HOME.  Every surface has been touched.  Walls has been repainted + wallpapered (some a few times over).  Floors have been recarpeted + retiled.  And most importantly our home is now adorned with key elements that show who we are, what we love, and where we’ve been. Our mark has been made.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

The kitchen, the hub of our new house in 2010 seemed fine.  The cabinets were in fine shape, the counters weren’t pretty but functional.  A few months in, we changed the hardware + the sink, and called it done.

Until…  2 years later and I was itching to freshen it up.  A $300 kitchen revamp + new appliances left us happy campers.  We were in love.  The do-it-yourself upgrade on a budget was perfect.  At that moment it reflected us.

>>> TO SEE THE DIY KITCHEN MAKEOVER CLICK HERE

In the 3 year time gap from then to now, our lives have turned upside down – all for the good!  When we bought our home, we had just came off a really rough patch with the economy affecting our jobs.

Thankfully things have changed a lot…

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Fast forward… the Misters job has been stable & growing + I’ve been able to continue expanding my blog + business – designing LOTS of other peoples homes.  Life has been good. Real good.  And truly grateful.  And the time had come for US to get the kitchen of our dreams.  It was finally our turn. Surreal, but true.  I wanted – and needed – a gourmet kitchen of my own.  And here it is.  Finally complete and still pinching myself with excitement.

WELCOME to our kitchen

This kitchen could not have been possible without the assistance + backing from my friends at Lowe’s, Kraftmaid, and Frigidaire.  I’ve collaborated with Lowe’s countless times over the years and I am blessed that they never ask questions and always believe.  I strive to execute outside-of-the-box creations which in turn inspires you, my amazing & dedicated readers.  That’s what I’m here for. That’s what I do… Inspire. And that’s what I hope the take away is with the new kitchen space I designed.

Enough chit-chat, come on in…

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Where to begin, is the question…

The inspiration for the color palette came from a piece of art.  I snagged this canvas from Ikea last year and at the time it was meant for the living room, which I had been in the process of remodeling. I loved the white background layered with bold pops of color – yellow, blue, raspberry, green, turquoise.

I was drawn to it’s simplicity, yet intricate focus on detail.  And that’s exactly the vision I wanted the kitchen to evoke – clean, simple, and BOLD.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

This was the mood board I created…

Kitchen Design Board - Plan of Action

… And months later, I feel I’ve achieved just that.  I’m content.  This new kitchen truly evokes everything I am and everything my style is.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

From edge to edge, here it is…

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

The cabinetry in the new kitchen is by Kraftmaid, one of several cabinet companies displayed at Lowe’s.  I chose the Kraftmaid line of cabinets for a range of reasons. Not only does Kraftmaid have an extensive selection of cabinet styles + colors, their attention to detail is exquisite, as well as the craftmanship of their product.  When I started the design process for this renovation, I was quite impressed with all the ‘bells & whistles’ that they offer (many of which come standard with their cabinetry) + the variety of storage solutions they offer.

More on the details of the kitchen + cabinetry in a post coming soon.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

When the process of the remodel began, the intention was to remove the soffit above the upper cabinet and the soffit above the window.  Unbeknownst to us in the beginning stages, the soffit above the window is a beam that is holding up the back of the house and couldn’t be removed – obviously.  What we WERE able to do was have a higher ceiling in the window section, which allowed the new subway tile to continue up and around the entire window, which really heightens the space.

Instead of having a lower cabinet under the soffit, it was decided that open shelves would be best – for aesthetics + function.

I love the open + airy feel that the 10″ deep  thick shelves give to this section of the kitchen.  Plus the 3″ thick shelves are ultra beafy (I confirmed this many times with the contractor) so they hold all the large dishes + small plates and bowls.  Super easy to access and grab.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

On the other side of the window, the left side, there are two additional shelves with decorative corbels.  These shelves are only about 7″ deep and can’t hold as much weight, so they’re perfect for glasses + smaller light-weight bowls.  Again, so easy to access.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

As we continue around the kitchen, the range + exposed hood are flanked by 2 closed upper cabinets that now are full height to the ceiling and hold the glasses (left cabinet) and pantry food (right cabinet).

Continuing the subway tile backsplash up the wall behind the hood was an absolute.  Again, another way to heighten the overall space and not have the wall start / stop at a certain point.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

In the new kitchen, the refrigerator moved about 18″ to the left to create a full depth pantry that touches the side wall.  Ahhh, it’s wonderful.  Singing-from-the-hilltops incredible!  I love it because there is so much storage.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

The 24″ deep pantry is the same depth as the refrigerator + cabinet above and holds some of the small appliances like the coffee maker + toaster.  The coffee maker sits on a roll-out shelf and there is an outlet in the cabinet back, which makes mornings so easy for brewing our cup of joe.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Also in the bank of pantry cabinets is a charging station for our various electronics including the cell phones, ipads, etc.  Another outlet was installed for these components in the back of the cabinet and a grommet was drilled in the back of the drawer for the wires to pull through.

Having a ‘home’ for all these kitchen essentials has really cleared off the counters to leave open space for what a kitchen is really used for… cooking.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Talking about cooking, I basically prep + do everything for our meals on the island.  The Island.  The huge island that I always dreamed of and still can’t believe I have.

It’s wonderful.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

The Kraftmaid cabinetry on the perimeter cabinets is Dove White and on the island is a deep + rich grey/blue hue called Greyloft. Never having an island before, I didn’t know what to do with myself when it was installed.  It provides so much storage and in the island is also where the microwave now sits.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

On the far end of the island that faces the living room, I chose to have open shelves instead of closed cabinetry.  I thought it would be the perfect spot for my many cookbooks + basket storage for dishclothes, cloth napkins, etc.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Having open shelving also allows the ability to bring color into the kitchen.  Instead of the solid, one-tone look of cabinets, open shelving adds depth and a way to introduce color.

Another way to bring in color amongst the sea of white was on the walls.  The old kitchen paint color was yellow and for the new wall paint I chose a light gray.  Wrong choice.  In the end, I went back to yellow, but this time the sunshine yellow color is a completely different hue – much more lighter & brighter.

And check out the colorful + bold wallpaper in the dining room. It adds a gorgeous focal point to the overall open space.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

The marble-looking countertops are quartz and truly complete the clean + simple aesthetic of the kitchen.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

And let me not forget to discuss the lighting…

I am a major light-aholic!  Lighting is SO IMPORTANT.  Lighting makes a statement and with my home, I wasn’t going to skimp.

Go Big or Go Home!

Being completely honest, I had a difficult time choosing the right lighting.  With the cabinetry hardware being polished nickel, I questioned the lighting style + finish.  In the end, I chose these amazing matte black dome style pendants from Rejuvenation for over the island.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

And for the light above the sink, I decided on this open style glass pendant from Shades of Light.

They are both amazing, compliment each other perfectly, and overall I am in love with the many different finishes in this kitchen.

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

There you have it…

We have to look at a before & after comparison.  Check out how far this space has come in 6 years…

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

Do you see how / why I’m in disbelief that this makeover really happened?!

Here’s another walk down memory lane view…

KITCHEN MAKEOVER REVEAL: before and after kitchen renovation with white & gray cabinets, open shelving, subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and layers of color. This kitchen is gorgeous! Check out the entire renovation process @ www.JennaBurger.com

This has been a strenuous – what big renovation isn’t? – but wonderful renovation process.  I won’t lie, I’m glad it’s DONE, but I can’t ask for anything better. And that is a project labeled SUCCESS.

RESOURCES

I’ve showed you what the kitchen looks like, and now it’s time to share the scoop on the sources…

Cabinets
Perimeter Cabinets: Kraftmaid, color – Dove White, door style – Cayden
Island: Kraftmaid; color – Greyloft, door style – Cayden

Appliances
Frigidaire: Smudge-Proof Stainless

Countertop
Quartz: Silestone, color: Lagoon

Cabinet Hardware
Kraftmaid, Fordham Bin Pull, Polished Nickel

Backsplash
Tile: Allen + Roth 3×6 white subway tile; Grey grout color

Paint Color
Wall Paint: HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams, color – White Citrus, finish – satin

Pendants over Island
Rejuvenation, Haleigh Wire Dome Pendant 12-inch, oil rubbed bronze

Pendant over Sink
Shades of Light, Clear Glass Prism Pentagon Pendant

Sink + Faucet
Lowes, Vigo 32″ x 19″ Stainless single-basin Undermount with Industrial Faucet

Wallpaper (in dining area)
Anthropologie, Frosted Kaleidoscope

Accessories
Pineapple Art – Hobby Lobby
Blue Geometric Rug – Target
Sisal Runner – Target
Bowls – Crate & Barrel, Homegoods
Cutting Boards – World Market
Yellow Industrial Barstools – Target

I think that wraps it up.  Something you liked and want details on… email me!

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S, KRAFTMAID, FRIGIDAIRE, AND HGTV HOME BY SHERWIN WILLIAMS.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Renovation: Paint + Wallpaper

You know if we’re at the point of talking about paint, it has to almost be complete.

That’s right… we are mere days away from wrapping up the kitchen renovation and I still can’t believe it’s real.  When I look over to our kitchen area and my eyes see an entire new space, I want to cry.  It’s so good!

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

One challenge I had when creating the plan of action for the kitchen was the paint color for the walls.  After living with the mustardy-yellow for 5 years, I new light + neutral was the right direction – but then along the way my thoughts changed.  keep reading…

This is the old color.

Old mustardy-yellow paint color that had to go!

The first floor of our home is an open concept plan, so basically it’s one room that leads to the next, that leads to the next. There has always been a different paint color in each room, which I feel defines each of the spaces bringing uniqueness and character.

Creating definition, but at the same time a flow with various paint colors can be challenging, but if a color palette is set that works well together, the result can be gorgeous.

Of course, that’s what I was striving for >>> VARIATION + FLOW

THE PAINT STORY

After the kitchen cabinets were installed, the Lowe’s independent contractors got to work on painting the kitchen + dining room walls because it’s one large open space.

Painting the walls

I chose a paint color that was a light grey tone.  It was a pretty hue, but once all the walls were covered, I knew it wasn’t right. Because the kitchen flows straight to the family room that also has grey-toned walls, the definition that I wanted to achieve was gone.

Big Mistake – eek. 

What to do?  Leave it + live with it for a while?

I knew leaving it wasn’t the answer.  After a few days, of living with it, I chose a new color.  It was the first time ever that I got small color sample pods to put on the wall.  It was the right decision and seeing the colors at various times throughout the day was key to choosing the best paint hue for the space.

Color Change…

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

As soon as the ‘new, new’ color went up, I felt at peace.  Yes, that’s it.  And who knew, back to yellow – but a very different hue of yellow – would be the right color?!

For the walls in the kitchen + dining room, I chose to use the color White Citrus HGSW1237 by HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams, which is available at Lowe’s.  The sheen is eggshell (one step up in sheen from flat) and I used their Showcase line of paint.

White Citrus HGSW1237 by HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams

The color on the wall is just gorgeous and brings all the spaces together.  It’s not very far off from the last yellow paint color, but at the same time, it feels so new + fresh.  To sum it up, this White Citrus paint color is a light buttery + sunny hue with subtle green undertones.

Sherwin Williams has always been a favorite paint of mine to use.  The quality is like no other.  I’ve used a lot of paint in my day, and have come across a lot I will never use again.  When I was introduced to the HGTV Home collection by Sherwin Williams, I was intrigued because it was available at Lowe’s, a place I always shop.  So the big question I had… Is the quality the same as the Sherwin Williams brand it’s always been or did they ‘change the formula’ for the big box store?

I had the opportunity to speak with a rep for Sherwin Williams, who has worked with them for over a decade and he assured me the quality is the same and their collaboration with Lowe’s was a ‘next step move’ to continue their growth and brand awareness to a new market.  Basically, they want to reach even more people and by being in Lowe’s (versus just their own stand-alone store), they hope to do that!

I was skeptical about the quality, but I will say I had a great experience using the Showcase line of HGTV Home paint.  It went on smoothly with a roller AND a brush. Most paint takes 2, maybe 3 coats, to get full coverage on the wall, but this paint went on in one coat yet it wasn’t thick and goopy.  Of course, I went over it with a 2nd coat, but it really wasn’t needed.

THE PAINT RESULT

The yellow hue defines the kitchen + dining room space, yet flows with the neutral colors in the family room beyond…

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

Next to the kitchen is the living room / office which is a deep navy hue, and the yellow works beautifully with that as well…

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

THE WALLPAPER

I heart wallpaper and really wanted to use it somewhere in the new kitchen space. At the same time, I always wanted to define the bay area in the dining area with a different paint color.

How about ditching the paint idea and instead add wallpaper in the bay nook? YES, perfect solution.

I found this incredible bold + colorful wallpaper from Anthropologie.  The rich colors of orange, blue, yellow, gray, raspberry perfectly summed up all the colors in my home… I had to have it!

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

Once it was delivered a few days later, I got to work.

I primed the walls first.

Prime the walls before wallpapering!

Then installed the wallpaper which took about 3 hours total for this bay area.

Adding wallpaper can add drama and definition to a space. Use a bold pattern in a small area or subtle pattern in a large space. Either way, it will bring beautiful depth and texture to a room. Check out this new kitchen and dining room by www.JennaBurger.com

Want to know how to hang wallpaper?  Check out these WALLPAPER TUTORIALS

Hanging a Bold Wallpaper in the Bathroom

How-To Hang Wallpaper Like a PRO!

How-To Hang Wallpaper using Paste (in the powder room)

I’ve shared enough wallpaper tutorials, so I’ll spare you the details of the process, but this is the result…

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a paint color for an open concept floor plan + adding accents of wallpaper. Follow along on this before + after kitchen remodel @ www.JennaBurger.com

And there you have it.  Mistakes were made.  Sleepless nights were had (well kinda), but the Paint + Wallpaper ARE DONE!

Another checkmark on the to do list.  Next up are the final details and then the reveal…

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S USING HGTV HOME BY SHERWIN WILLIAMS.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspirational Ideas

Yesterday’s post was filled with tips + useful information on choosing the right subway tile.  It’s amazing how many different styles + colors there are to choose from, so hopefully with the insight from my personal experience scouring the tile stores for our kitchen renovation, you are armed with a few helpful tools.

Aside from subway tile, there are a gazillion other tiles for the kitchen backsplash.  It can surely get overwhelming when standing in a tile store trying to choose something that fits your aesthetic + budget AND something that will be classic enough to “live” for years to come.

Here I am, coming to your rescue.  I’ve done the work for you.

I’ve rounded up 12 tiles that are perfect for the kitchen.  They are all classic + beautiful + simple + chic…

How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. Check out this not-to-be-missed round up of 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comclick for sources:
white backsplash tile
artistic ceramic patterned tile
stainless steel mini subway tile
grey stone mosaic tile
arabesque white tile
marble subway tile
stone herringbone tile
river rock pebble tile
carrara marble honeycomb tile
tumbled natural stone tile
penny tile
glass + stone horizontal mosaic tile

Aren’t those 12 incredible tile options for the kitchen?!

The first tile, 3 x 6 white subway, is what I chose for my kitchen backsplash and I love the classic look but with a twist since I paired it with dark grout to give it a modern edge.

How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. Check out this not-to-be-missed round up of 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.com

MORE INSPIRATION

Want more backsplash inspiration?

Check out these Incredible Kitchens…

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia Better Homes and Gardens

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comEclectic kitchen with mini glass tile backsplash, client project of mine

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia Better Homes and Gardens

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia Better Homes and Gardens

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comStunning Stained Kitchen, client project of mine

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia Better Homes and Gardens

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia Better Homes and Gardens

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comKitchen Designed by me, featured in KBMO.

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia HGTV

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia Hi Sugarplum

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.comvia Just a Girl and Her Blog

And there you have it!  Feeling inspired?  I hope you are.

FINDING ‘THE ONE’

There are so many options for backsplash tile, it can be overwhelming honing in on THE ONE.

Start out looking at kitchen spaces for inspiration via Pinterest and magazines.  Once you have a good collection (about 15), go through each to see if there is a common thread.  Are you gravitating towards a certain style and/or color?  Is it subway or glass or metal?

Once you can pinpoint what you like, then determine the size that would be the best proportion for your space.  Decide on a color range.  Do you prefer classic white or would a tile with varying shades of blue be best?

After you have the overall idea for the type of tile that fits your style + kitchen aesthetic, the search begins to find the perfect tile for your backsplash. Check out online sources + tile shops in your neck of the woods.

KITCHEN TILE BACKSPLASH INSPIRATION: How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out > www.JennaBurger.com

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

Subway Tile Kitchen Backsplash Installation

We’re 6 days in to the new year and I finally have a post up – HAPPY NEW YEAR.

My biggest personal project ever closed out 2015, AND the same project is kicking off 2016…

THE KITCHEN.

It’s almost complete.  I’m days away from sharing the big reveal, but before that I’ve been excitedly awaiting to share what tile I chose for the backsplash + the process for installation.

Check out the new + classic + gorgeous subway tile now adorning the kitchen backsplash…

Subway Tile: There are many styles + colors. How do you choose the right subway tile for the project? Here are some tips that will help with the process + check out the before and after of the tile installation of our kitchen remodel.

Now to the details of what I chose for our kitchen renovation

When the I created the PLAN OF ACTION for the kitchen remodel, I knew subway tile was the best choice because it’s not only affordable, but timeless + clean + the perfect compliment to our new minimalist quartz countertops.

Once the decision was made to move forward with white subway, the search began for the perfect tile.

And like paint, white is not just plain ole’ white.

In the end, I chose the beautiful 3 x 6 white subway by Allen + Roth at Lowe’s, then complimented it with charcoal colored grout.

Subway Tile: There are many styles + colors. How do you choose the right subway tile for the project? Here are helpful tips that will point you in the right direction on the process of choosing a tile + check out the before and after of the tile installation of this kitchen remodel. www.JennaBurger.com

You can’t ever go wrong with white subway tile as it’s classic and works with all style kitchens.  BUT, there with so many subway tiles to choose from, it can be challenging to pin point the best for the setting.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SUBWAY TILE

Here are some helpful tips for choosing the RIGHT subway for the project…

SIZE

The typical size for subway tile is 3″ x 6″, but with the vast selection of natural and man-made tiles, comes a huge variation in size availibility.  From mini tiles, around 1″ x 2″, to larger proportioned tiles around 4″ x 12″ +, size matters.

Choose a subway size appropriate for the project by looking at how much area will be covered with the tile.  For small tile areas, smaller to medium sized tiles are best, where larger tiles will beautifully compliment larger, more open areas.

COLOR

If you’re looking for a white subway tile, not all whites are white.  When I started the process of searching for white subway tile, I was so surprised how each manufacturers white looked so different.  Some have more yellow undertones, where others are more blue.

I chose white subway tile by Allen + Roth because it was a true white and it looked closest to the Kraftmaid Dove White cabinetry that was chosen. Others that I looked at were too yellow and when next to each other, the two surfaces wouldn’t have blended well.

LAYOUT

I chose to layout + install the subway tile in the most classic way, which is staggered, but there are many other ways to layout subway tile to create an interesting + unique pattern.  Try herringbone or vertical or cross hatch or stack bond.

Unique ways to layout out subway tile!

via a beautiful mess

COST

Typical of most tile, there is a range of pricing for subway tile, but it’s one of the most least expensive style tiles.  Cost comes down to the quality of the tile, but with most, it won’t break the bank.

GROUT

The grout color really doesn’t have to do with choosing a subway tile, but the grout color that is chosen will make your tile come alive. As with anything, there is a range of color choices for grouts.  Have a white subway, white is the safest choice.  Want to be dramatic and have your backsplash stand-out? Try a darker hue, like I did…

Subway Tile: There are many styles + colors. How do you choose the right subway tile for the project? Here are helpful tips that will point you in the right direction on the process of choosing a tile + check out the before and after of the tile installation of this kitchen remodel. www.JennaBurger.com

White subway tile might seem like a ‘Safe Tile’, but with the right size, color, and layout, this timeless tile can look unique to create a one-of-a-kind, stand-out kitchen.

INSTALLATION

Once the counters were installed in early December, we were ready to get crankin’ on the backsplash.

I’ve tiled many projects before, but I was happy and willing to have our contractor handle the tile installation to keep the kitchen remodel process moving along.  At this point being 6 weeks in, we were READY TO BE DONE!

The contractor started the tile installation at the sink, since that is the center point of the window on the overall wall.

How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out + follow along on how I installed the tile > www.JennaBurger.com

From that point, the tile was installed on either side of the window – there were a lot of cuts!

How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out + follow along on how I installed the tile > www.JennaBurger.com

Because the subway tile is ceramic, it was very soft and easy to cut.  A tile cutter was perfect for the job and since it’s mid-winter, it was a blessing to be able to cut indoors.

How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out + follow along on how I installed the tile > www.JennaBurger.com

Once the tile was all installed, which took about 2 days, it was time to grout.  As I mentioned above, I chose a charcoal color for the grout to give a beautiful contrast + pick up the color of the dark gray island.

I had never used dark grout before and it was incredibly messy when applied on to the white tile!

How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out + follow along on how I installed the tile > www.JennaBurger.com

After cleaning the tile surface many times of the gritty dark grout, it resulted just as I had hoped and honestly, better!

from this…

How do you choose the perfect kitchen tile backsplash? There are so many decisions. These are 12 ideal options for the kitchen backsplash and ONE is what I chose for my kitchen renovation. Click over to check them out + follow along on how I installed the tile > www.JennaBurger.com

to this…

SUBWAY TILE: How do you choose the right subway tile for the project? There are MANY subway tile styles + colors. Here are useful tips that will help the process of choosing the right subway tile for the project. Plus check out the before and after of the tile installation of this kitchen remodel. www.JennaBurger.com

At the only corner of the kitchen, I chose a vertical pencil liner to finish the edge.  It looks so good and pulled together!

And then it was complete.

Once the grout was dry – within a day – we were able to install the open shelves + add the dishes.

Eek, it’s almost complete.

Here’s a peak…

Subway Tile: There are many styles + colors. How do you choose the right subway tile for the project? Here are helpful tips that will point you in the right direction on the process of choosing a tile + check out the before and after of the tile installation of this kitchen remodel. www.JennaBurger.comMore to come soon!

In the meantime, if you want to retile your kitchen NOW with subway or want to use this post as a resource for the future, save it or pin it…

SUBWAY TILE: How do you choose the right subway tile for the project? There are MANY subway tile styles + colors. Here are useful tips that will help the process of choosing the right subway tile for the project. Plus check out the before and after of the tile installation of this kitchen remodel. www.JennaBurger.com

What do you think of subway tile?  Yay or Nay for the kitchen?

Tomorrow on the blog, I’ll be sharing 11 other tile fool-proof favorites for the backsplash. Don’t miss it!

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S USING KRAFTMAID CABINETRY.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF KRAFTMAID AND THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Renovation: Choosing a Quartz Countertop

Demo is complete.

Hardwood floors are stained.

Cabinets have been installed.

Countertops are FINISHED.

You heard me right… we have counters, which means we have a sink, which means we have use of a kitchen. YES!

It has been a busy few weeks around our homestead, but the kitchen is taking shape and I am thrilled to share with you all the details on the countertops I chose (natural quartz) + why…

Natural Quartz countertops in the kitchen was a great choice! It's durable, maintenance free, and so stylish. Check out more at www.JennaBurger.com

When the process of the kitchen remodel began, I was dead set on using granite for the counter material.  I’ve always steered my clients towards granite.  believed it was the best choice because of the vast selection, durability, and its uniqueness. No one anywhere will have the exact same piece.

When the time came to choose a material for my kitchen remodel, I wanted something light and minimal, like the gorgeous + drool-worthy look of marble.  And I say the look of marble, because it’s a material I wanted to steer clear of because it is too porous and will easily stain from acidic spills like orange juice, tomato sauce, and red wine.  As a family of 5 with young kids, I can’t be watching + micro-managing our kitchen like a hawk every minute.

With marble crossed off my list, I started my search out with lighter toned granites.  I found 2 I loved – Bianco Gabrielle and Bianco Romano – at Lowe’s, but I felt they had too much movement for the overall minimal, clean look I was trying to achieve.

Then my eye honed in on just what I wanted aesthetically + functionally!

Natural Quartz.

Silestone Quartz Lagoon

After giving myself a day to think it over, I knew that choosing quartz was the right + best choice for our kitchen.

The design options for natural quartz has grown tremendously over the past years and with it being a natural material (a must on my checklist), incredibly durable, and maintenance-free, it truly was the perfect material.

WHY NATURAL QUARTZ?

Natural Quartz

> Natural stone

> Extremely hard mineral giving it great strength

> Nonporous

> Stain-resistant

> Maintenance-free / never has to be sealed

> Cleanup can be done with water + mild soap.

> Cost: $60 to $100 per square foot

Once my cabinets were in place and I finalized my order for Silestone Lagoon quartz, a templater came to my home to take all the needed measurements for the new counters.

After a few weeks of living with plywood counters…

Gettign ready for new countertops to be installed

… and no sink…

Getting ready for new countertops to be installed

…the day had finally arrived for install.

I was floating on cloud 9 with excitement.

It was estimated for the counters to take 2-4 weeks for fabrication, but it took just about 2 weeks from templating to installation (with Thanksgiving in between).

The independent contractor that does the fabrication + installation through Lowe’s was incredible.  They were timely, courteous, and did a great job.  I was 100% satisfied!

eek – watch my wreath. they did.

Installation of Quartz Countertops

Because of the countertop overhang on the island, a steel plate was installed to give extra support.

Getting ready for new countertops to be installed

And then they laid the tops in place on the island and on the perimeter cabinets.

Installation of Quartz Countertops

There was one area on the perimeter cabinets that needed a seam.  The process for connecting the seam was very interesting.  They used this neat gadget to level + tighten the joint to make a perfectly, unrecognizable seam.

Installation of Quartz Countertops

And then they were done + gone, and I was left with gorgeous new countertops that I could finally stop dreaming about and instead enjoy for many days + months + years ahead…

Silestone Quartz Lagoon

And here’s a peek at the kitchen and how it’s progressing…  It’s almost done.

How To Choose the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen! Pros + Cons + Advice for countertop materials by www.jennaburger.com

There are many other materials to consider for the kitchen, but our top choice was Natural Quartz!

Want to learn about other countertop materials for the kitchen? Check out this post with a breakdown of 10 countertop materials to consider for the kitchen + the pros & con for each. 

10 Countertop Materials to Consider for your KITCHEN! Round up of material choices at www.JennaBurger.com

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S USING KRAFTMAID CABINETRY.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF KRAFTMAID AND THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Renovation: The Cabinets

It’s been about 2+ weeks since I shared an update on the progress of the kitchen renovation and A LOT has happened!

Once the hardwood floors were complete and we were able to move back into our home, the CABINETS ARRIVED.  It was a very, very exciting day to say the least.

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

For this kitchen renovation that I am partnering with Lowe’s on, I chose to use cabinets by Kraftmaid.

Not only does Kraftmaid have an extensive selection of cabinet styles + colors, their attention to detail is exquisite, as well as the craftmanship of their product.  When I started the design process for this renovation, I was quite impressed with all the ‘bells & whistles’ that they offer (many of which come standard with their cabinetry) + the variety of storage solutions they offer.

Once the design plan was in place and the cabinets went into production, a date for their arrival was lightly scratched in stone (versus ‘set in stone’ – bad joke, I know).  We didn’t know if the cabinets would actually arrive on that date, but the Lowe’s independent contractor worked day after day to have everything with the walls + floors buttoned up by this magical date.

So the morning of the date comes and I heard crickets…  I never was so anxious to receive a call, and THEN my phone rank and I was jumping for joy.

The cabinets DID arrive as planned on the date and I was able to breathe again…

The delivery company unloaded the truck box by box and stacked them ALL into my garage.

Cabinets Arrive

There were a lotta boxes and the garage was filled to the max!

The cabinets were gorgeous.  Just how I imagined.

And then the fun began of installation…

The following Monday, the contractor got started with installing the cabinets in the empty shell that we once called our kitchen.  The upper cabinets (which there are only 2 of) were the first to go into place.  They set the placement for everything else thereafter.

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Once the upper cabinets were in place, the base cabinets were installed, followed by the cabinet above the refrigerator + the pantry to the right…

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

By the end of Day One, this was the progress that was made.

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

I loved watching the new space evolve.

I literally gasped with excitement as each new cabinet was set into place.

Day after day, more progress was made and it started to look & feel like a kitchen.

A real kitchen.

After dreaming about this space for so long + being without a functioning hub for weeks, it felt so good.

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

In about 5 days, about 95% of the cabinets were installed.

And then IT HAPPENED…  after weeks of living out of boxes, I was able to put away all my kitchen essentials.

A glass of wine + some serene tunes on Pandora and IT WAS A PARTY.  By myself. With my dishes.

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Above…

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Below…

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

…There is so much incredible storage + space.  From the outside to the inside, every nook & cranny is so pretty!

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

CABINETRY

For this kitchen renovation, I chose the Cayden line of cabinets in Dove White (perimeter cabinets) + Greyloft (island cabinets) by Kraftmaid.  It’s a full overlay door with an inset panel and minimalist detailing.

For the hardware, I chose the sleek polished nickel Fordham pull.

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

This was the palette that I created during the design phase and the actual space is really coming together how I envisioned. squeal…

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Without giving too much away, here are a few close up peeks at how the finished cabinets look once installed…

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

The crown moulding still has to be finished, but the flat stock has been added.

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

CABINET INTERIORS

Check out a few snapshots of the cabinet interiors…

Kitchen Renovation + Cabinet Installation using Kraftmaid. Before & After @ www.jennaburger.com

WHY KRAFTMAID.

It’s a fair question.  From Ikea to custom, there are a zillion cabinetry companies out there to choose form, so why Kraftmaid?

DESIGN. Lowe’s offers a great service of working with a kitchen designer who can create a plan for you.  Whether you know exactly what you want or need hand-holding + direction, the Lowe’s design team will work with you to implement a plan.  You not only want to create a high-functioning space, but also a kitchen area that fits your style + aesthetic…  the Lowe’s kitchen designers can do that for you!

SELECTION. Kraftmaid has an incredible selection of cabinet styles, colors, decorative enhancements (add-ons), storage solutions, hardware, etc…  Having options allows the possibility of achieving a custom-to-you, one of a kind kitchen!

QUALITY.  Kraftmaid stands behind their product (check out their warranty) and with a big investment you want a company that cares about their product.  Their attention to detail + the craftsmanship of their product is exquisite.  What other cabinet companies upcharge for, Kraftmaid cabinets come as standard including solid wood dovetail drawers that are full extension + soft close and a finishing system on their doors to make them twice as resistant to scratches.

STORAGE. Kraftmaid has a huge selection of storage solutions.  As much as the outsides of the cabinets need to be pretty, the insides have to be functional.

I am so thrilled with the progress of this kitchen renovation.  I will be 100% honest, the renovation process has been exhausting + wearing and I haven’t even lifted a finger (with all the DIY we do, I couldn’t not imagine doing this as a do it yourself project… that’s just too much for me).  There have been frustrating + tiring days, but I just keep focusing on the end result.  In mere months, this renovation will be simply be a past moment in time. For now, I’m just thankful to have cabinets + focusing  on the day-to-day progress!

Next up… countertops.  I can not wait to share with you what I chose!

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S USING KRAFTMAID CABINETRY.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF KRAFTMAID AND THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

We are still full-force ahead with the kitchen renovation through Lowe’s.

Last week was equal to a roller coaster ride with lots ups & downs, but we kept chugging along and now another week is upon us.  I *think* I can say, I see the light…

Since I left off last, a lot of progress has been made.  Day one of Demo was very exciting + eye-opening.  It was amazing how we woke in the morning with a full working kitchen, but by the days end, it was completely taken apart with only the shell of the space remaining…

The remainder of week one was filled with patching and repairing the walls, moving electrical openings (in the walls + ceiling), and sanding the walls to prepare for the cabinet installation.

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

Once the vertical surfaces were complete, the next area of focus was the hardwood floor, which started out week two of renovations.

Because of the new cabinetry layout, there was an area of hardwood where the dishwasher used to sit that needed to be patched with new material. Once patched, it would all be sanded, then stained…

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

The major stresser started with locating material…  Our existing hardwood is 3-1/4″ wide maple and it was challenging to find material in a short amount of time – literally we had less than 2 days.

Hardwood should be in the home 3- 7 days before installation so it can acclimate to the setting.  After locating enough material at Lumber Liquidators, we were good to go.

It took about 3 hours to weave in the new hardwood material to patch the vacant area.

The new material is lighter than the existing, but no worries, because it would all be sanded down to bare wood…

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

At this point, we ‘moved out’ of the house because despite it smelling bad, all of our furniture was piled high in the family room & it was like walking through a maze in the foyer…

Next step for the floors, sanding…

We hired out for the floors through our Lowe’s independent contractor, who used an industrial sander to sand all the floors down to the bare wood.  When finished, the gorgeous maple shined through, but in my taste they had to go darker especially with the new white cabinets.

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

Here were a few samples of stains that they applied…

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

In the end, I chose a stain called COFFEE and it’s the 2nd board from the left. It was the perfect medium brown hue with no red or orange.

After the floors were sanded on day 2, they stained the floors, and applied a clear coat of oil sealer in a glossy finish.

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

It looked like a gym floor with the high-gloss finish but this wouldn’t be the final finish.  They apply this high-gloss finish (2 applications) because it is most durable.  Once dry (2 days later), the floors were lightly sanded again and the final coat of sealer in a satin finish was applied.

After 5 days we moved back home – yay – and this is how the floors look now…

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

I just can not contain my love for them…

The before & after is breathtaking.  It looks like a completely new space!

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

They are so rich + warm.

I’m in love.

The floors will take 30 days to fully cure, just like paint on a wall, so for now all the furniture is placed on blankets, craft paper, or felt.  I want to protect these bad boys!

Look how beautiful the front room looks with the new floors (ignore the bright red blankets, lol)…

Kitchen Renovation: Patch, Repair, and Stain the Hardwood Floors

And there you have it.  Walls complete. Wood complete.

Next up cabinets + appliances!  They will be arriving in the coming days…

RECAP

Before I leave you, here is a recap for staining hardwood floors:

Staining hardwood floor can be quite an undertaking.  It’s not difficult, but time consuming and involved.  A good sander + high-quality product is key!

THE PROCESS FOR STAINING HARDWOOD FLOORS

– 1 –  Clean + Clear out the room(s)

– 2 –  Sand floors to bare wood – coarse grit sandpaper to fine grit sandpaper

– 3 –  Stain floors (a roller works best)

– 4 –  Polyurethane floors (3 times using a roller)

– 5 –  Let the poly cure for at least 48 hours

– 6 –  Move back in!

>>> Polyurethane takes 30 days to full cure, so no shoes.  Be Remember to place furniture down, don’t drag!

Steps to Staining Hardwood Floors to achieve a beautiful new finished floor! www.JennaBurger.com

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

Demo Day means one thing… construction has begun!

Last week demolition of the existing kitchen started and I was full of emotions from excitement to nervousness.  After months of planning, I just couldn’t believe the day had come.

After spending the weekend clearing + cleaning out the kitchen and adjacent areas, the kitchen was ready to be teared down.

I was anticipating DEMO DAY to be rugged & raw with sledgehammers flying and earsplitting noise of walls being tore down.  Like this…

via

Yay, not so much. Guess it’s a good thing with a baby in the house who typically naps for 3+ hours…

I was a little disappointed that I couldn’t get the days anxieties out with a haul of a hammer, but I got over it quickly.

A few hours in to demo day, the window treatments were down, the cabinets were out, and the contractors were well on their way to clearing out the kitchen area.

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.comDemo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

The kitchen cabinets came out first, followed by the soffit above the existing cabinets. The new upper cabinets will continue to the ceiling with decorative moulding, which will really heighten the space+ provide more storage space inside.

The ‘soffit’ in front of the window (above the sink) we discovered is a beam, which will need to remain.  Can’t take out what is holding up the house!

Beyond the beam though, we will be able to heighten the soffit, which will allow new tile to continue up and around all sides of the window.  A pretty new pendant over the sink will also be installed.

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

Over the coming days once demo is complete, other areas of focus will be the plumbing + electrical.  The electrical changes will include relocating + adding outlets, repositioning the recessed lights in the ceiling, and adding pendant lights over the island.

All the wiring for the electrical will take place now during the demo + repair phase, then when the cabinets are in, the contractor will be able to cut the exact locations in the sheetrock, so they are in the exact position that I’d like.  Not too shabby…

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

See that ugly tile?  That was the original floor for the kitchen + dining space.  I couldn’t imagine…   The hardwood flooring was installed by the previous owners and since the kitchen was already in place, they followed the footprint perimeter of the cabinets.

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

The challenging part that we’re going to encounter with our proposed plan is weaving new flooring into this area where the dishwasher once was because we are eliminating the footprint of this “peninsula” and instead creating a big ole’ island.

Once the new floor is installed, ALL the first floor hardwood floors will be sanded & restained.  By weaving in new floor with the old though, it’s unknown how the stain will take and the new floor boards might be obvious & stand out.  I was told, the darker the floor, the higher probability that it’ll be apparent.  It’s an unknown at the moment, so we shall see what happens…

By days end, just the shell of the space was left.

I couldn’t believe how everything was out & already how different the kitchen space felt.  And all I kept thinking was, it’s really happening…

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

It’s amazing how a room can look + feel so different when everything is removed.  Your eye isn’t drawn to what it sees anymore, but instead with a clear palette a world of new thoughts + ideas come flurrying in.

For months (maybe even years in my head), I planned + designed every nook & cranny of the new kitchen, but having it actually go from a dream to reality is mind-boggling.

As my kitchen adventure continues, I plan to share the good, the bad, and all the steps in between with hopes to inspire + educate if you ever decide to renovate the kitchen in your home.

Next up for this kitchen renovation… finishing repairing the walls & then the patching + staining of the hardwood floors.  After that, cabinets will be delivered.

Thanks for following along!

Demo Day: Steps to Demolishing an Existing Kitchen + Creating a new renovated space. Remodel by www.jennaburger.com

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S.  ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWE’S DESIGN TEAM.

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