If you caught our webisode, you saw our kitchen transformation in partnership with  Semihandmade! We used contrasting black and white cabinets, beautiful cement tile, floating wood shelves, lighting, and accessories to update this kitchen to be bright and inviting. 

BEFORE 

It wasn't just that this kitchen was a bit outdated, but the cabinets were literally falling off! At first, our client considered opening up the kitchen, but in the end she didn't want that to be the first thing you see as you walk through the door. 

The kitchen didn't have a lot of lighting — just a couple flushmounts! We loved the idea of adding pendants to add visual interest and another level of lighting. 

Progress

After the tile was installed, ikea came out and installed the cabinets! It was the fasted process of the entire renovation. After the boxes were put in, we had the Semihandmade fronts installed with Rejuvenation hardware. 

AFTER

Originally, our client wanted an all-white kitchen, but we talked her into taking the design to the next level with black cabinet lowers. 

We used gray to bridge the high-contrast look of the black and white cabinet fronts. The subway tile is grouted with gray to match the gray in the pattern in the cement tile.

We elevated the kitchen by mixing metals with the appliances, lighting, and hardware. Two flush mounts give the space an old-school character.

One small change to the layout that we love is the addition of a hood! Rather than a microwave and more cabinets, the hood breaks up the cabinets — making the space feel a little more open. 

To make the space feel open, we put in open shelving above the sink. It really helps to break up the space visually, while making it feel warm and organic. We added accessories like cutting boards, a linen towel, and of course —  a lot of fresh touches and greenery. 

Not a bad view when you're doing dishes!

Going dark in a small kitchen is a risk worth taking. With the tile, backsplash, and white uppers, we made sure that it still felt light and airy. Warm stools tie in with the rest of the kitchen perfectly. 

This greige vase  looks so darling paired with berry baskets and cool minimalistic soap. 

SHOP THE LOOK: