When Totty and Dave shared their latest room makeover, we had to show it off. After the overwhelming response to their bathroom overhaul, we knew their kitchen transformation would be just as inspiring. Here is the note they sent describing the project:
Dave and I have another Reader Redesign for you. Our kitchen has been getting a facelift over the past six months. What began as a simple idea — “let’s move the cabinets around a bit” — evolved into a full kitchen renovation. We relocated the upper cabinets, added floating shelves, installed new cabinet doors and hardware, upgraded the appliances, tiled a backsplash, and uncovered hardwood floors hidden beneath dated orange tile. I think that covers it! The best part is that several key components were things we already had on hand, so we didn’t need to buy everything new. For example, the backsplash used leftover tile and grout from our bathroom renovation you featured in November. We also reused the cabinet boxes, buying only new doors and hardware. We completed most of the work ourselves (we did bring in a pro to sand and refinish the floors). That helped keep the renovation within our budget. I still can’t believe it’s the same kitchen. For the full story and photos, visit www.bootsandtotty.com. — Totty and Dave
Below is a quick look at what their kitchen looked like before the redo:
And here is the kitchen now, after the renovation took shape:
Totty and Dave also shared a concise list of where key items came from and how they saved money on the project:
- Cabinet doors and hardware were sourced from Ikea.
- The new refrigerator and stove were purchased from Sears’ “Scratch & Dent” section at significantly reduced prices.
- The tile and grout used for the backsplash were leftover materials from their bathroom renovation featured earlier.
- Hardwood floors were sanded and refinished by a professional recommended to them (they were very happy with the result).
The transformation is a great example of smart, cost-conscious renovating. By reusing existing cabinet boxes and simply replacing the doors and hardware, they achieved a fresh, modern look without the expense of custom cabinetry. Repurposing leftover tile for the backsplash not only saved money but kept materials out of the landfill. Hiring a professional only for the floor refinishing ensured a high-quality finish where it mattered most, while handling the rest of the labor themselves reduced costs and added a personal touch.
Design-wise, several choices stand out. The new horizontal door hardware gives the cabinets a sleek, contemporary profile. Raising the upper cabinets and installing floating shelves created an open, airy feeling while providing useful display and storage space beneath. The combination of refinished hardwood and updated appliances grounds the space in classic, long-lasting materials while the fresh cabinet faces and backsplash tie together a modern aesthetic.
This makeover highlights the value of planning, creativity, and selective investment. Small choices — reusing what’s already available, hunting for discounted appliances, and prioritizing professional help for the most specialized tasks — made a big impact without blowing the budget. It’s a practical blueprint for anyone considering a kitchen refresh: identify what can be repurposed, decide where to splurge, and tackle the rest yourself if you can.
We love how Totty and Dave balanced style, sustainability, and savings. Which detail is your favorite? The elegant horizontal hardware, the clever floating shelves, the refreshed hardwood floors, or the clever use of leftover tile for the backsplash? They proved that a thoughtful approach and some elbow grease can create a kitchen that looks custom and costs a lot less than you might expect.