We recently took on the challenge of breathing new life into a kitchen straight out of the 80s. You know the one – funky slanted countertops, a layout that needed some serious love, and a vibe that screamed, “It’s time for a change!”

So, we rolled up our sleeves, grabbed the demo tools, and got to work. This kitchen, despite being long and narrow, presented an exciting opportunity for transformation. We needed a new fridge, a new stove, a new microwave – essentially, a fresh start. And let’s not forget the crucial factor: storage. This space had practically none to begin with.

Enter the hero of the story – the kitchen designer. Now, we usually handle things with paper, a measuring tape, and a pencil, but this time, we needed some expert advice. Did they charge? Yeah, but the cost was nominal, around $250, and they did in an hour what would have taken us a full day. Talk about efficiency!

 Here are a few key changes that turned this kitchen into a vibrant, functional space:

1. Say Goodbye to Funky Countertops

First on the agenda – those dated, slanted countertops. They had to go. We didn’t want “funky” to be the adjective people used when describing our kitchen. The transformation was instantaneous, and the space suddenly felt more modern and inviting. (Look closely at the before pics. Can you see that the previous countertops had some type of sea glass in them?). The new ones are quartz which make the space look clean and fresh. Whereas, even though the previous ones were cool and eclectic, they seemed to be too much for the eye. Remember the KISS acronym when selecting tile and countertops! Keep It Simple Sweetie!

2. A Nook for Breakfast Bliss

Next up, the need for a breakfast nook. Out went the shallow storage (and cat food stashes), and in came a custom-built bench with piano hinges and storage underneath. Yes, you heard it right – storage! A perfect spot to start the day with a cup of coffee and a cheerful vibe. Just add a few back pillows and a 12” round table and you have yourself a sweet little morning retreat.

3. Farewell to the Soffits

Perhaps the most crucial change – the removal of those godforsaken soffits. They were the bane of our existence. Once they were gone, the kitchen felt lighter, more open, and the wasted space was transformed into taller cabinetry with additional storage, a sleek vent hood, and a larger, taller fridge. It’s amazing how much of a difference it makes!

And there you have it – an adorable, eclectic, and cheerful kitchen that’s a far cry from its 80s roots. The journey was challenging, but the result? Totally worth it.