Lately many of the submissions we’ve received are kitchen related, and since we’re firmly in a kitchen mindset, we’re happy to share this transformation. Jasmine and Sam’s remodel captivated us with a white-on-white palette enriched by varied textures and a streamlined, fresh feeling. Functionally, the project impressed us: adding more upper cabinets and thoughtful trim and molding lifted the room both visually and practically. Below is Jasmine and Sam’s account of their renovation.
Hey guys! My family and I just celebrated our one-year anniversary in our new house and I wanted to share some photos of our kitchen. We completed nearly every project in the house ourselves—luckily, we’re a handy pair.
The cabinets were maple in a shaker style. To extend that look upward, we ordered a second set of matching upper cabinets from a local company and had all the doors professionally sprayed Benjamin Moore’s Simply White. I painted the gables, stretchers, and anything else fixed in place using a foam roller. Our biggest splurge was new appliances—Viking throughout—which we absolutely love. They were a bit of a challenge to install, but worth it; we saved by having Sam manage the installation.
For the backsplash we chose classic white beveled subway tile, which delivered clean lines and subtle dimension without costing a fortune. The original floor was partly birch hardwood and partly an unfortunate shag carpet that visually and physically divided the space. After removing it all, we installed an engineered walnut floating floor across the entire main level to unify the rooms. We sourced the flooring from an auction and ended up with an excellent deal. The counter stools are a simple, modern set that complements the streamlined aesthetic.
The wall color is Antique White, while the cabinets and trim are painted in Simply White by Benjamin Moore, matched to a paint-and-primer product for convenience. There’s a structural post in the middle of the kitchen that we really wanted to remove, but it turned out to be load-bearing and had to stay. To make it feel intentional, we dressed it up with molding and trim so it reads like part of the design rather than an awkward leftover element. We’ve grown used to it, but I still wish it could have come out. Anyway, enjoy your kitchen renos—catch you later! – Jasmine and Sam
Jasmine and Sam’s kitchen showcases how consistent use of white can feel anything but flat when layered with texture, thoughtful trim, and quality materials. The additional upper cabinets increase storage and make the kitchen feel complete. The painted shaker doors, polished appliances, and a bright subway tile backsplash create a cohesive, timeless look that balances style and utility. Small design moves—like extending cabinetry to the ceiling, adding molding to structural elements, and choosing a continuous floor material—transform the space from merely functional to intentionally designed.
This remodel is a great example for anyone planning a kitchen update: prioritize storage and flow, invest where it counts (appliances and durable flooring), and use paint and trim to raise the overall finish. The white-on-white approach works especially well when you focus on contrast in texture—glossy tile against matte cabinetry, warm wood flooring against crisp white trim, and metal appliances that add reflective interest.
Anyone else think Jasmine and Sam should start a blog to share more of their renovations? They clearly know how to balance style and practicality. For me, the favorite details are the added cabinetry and those streamlined stools; others will surely point to the glossy counters and the gleaming backsplash. We hope they’ll drop in to answer any questions in the comments. In the meantime, what’s your favorite part of this kitchen?
Psst—We recently shared our road-tripping Thanksgiving adventures on our blog, including highlights of friends, family, and food. It was a fun trip and a great reminder that good design and good company both make a house feel like home.
Pssst—We also put our dining table and six chairs from our first house up for sale; they’re in great condition and have served us well. More details are available if anyone’s interested.