One month ago Carla and her husband Evan contacted us for ideas to refresh their wood-on-wood kitchen. They wanted something brighter, more modern, and youthful. We suggested several changes: paint the cabinets and chairs white while painting the table black to echo the backsplash, introduce vibrant green with curtains and accessories, add a round jute rug beneath the table for texture, and bring in a few well-chosen plants and accents. They set to work, and we didn’t have to wait long for the results—here’s their note and the story of the makeover.
We couldn’t wait to send the kitchen after pictures to you just one short month after our consultation. All we can say is WOW!!!! We honestly cannot believe the transformation—it’s like a brand new kitchen and we freaking L.O.V.E. it!!!! As you can see, we took a lot of your advice and I was able to talk my hubby into painting the table, chairs and cabinets—I think he’s still in shock! He was very apprehensive, as you know, but my smooth talking, good looks (haha) and the fact that I promised to do most of the work myself (even took a day off of work, thank you very much!) got him to love it AND help out too! We still cannot believe how different it all is. WOW! And all for around $800 (including primer, paint, curtains, rugs and every last plant, pot, accessory, and dishtowel). It was so great to be able to do this project with you and the best part is that we feel like we’re really making this house our home! You guys are an inspiration—keep doing what you’re doing! -Carla & Evan
Below are the before photos for reference:
And here are the dramatic after shots, achieved largely with paint and thoughtfully chosen accessories:
What a transformation. The space feels instantly lighter, fresher, and far more cheerful. This project is a great example of how a targeted refresh—primarily paint, textiles, and a few well-placed accessories—can completely change the mood of a room. Previously, the kitchen read as one big tan-on-tan expanse: the floor, cabinets, blinds, and table all blended together. Painting the cabinets, table, and chairs introduced contrast and definition, while tying the table to the sleek black backsplash created a cohesive, updated look. Those vibrant green curtains and the round jute rug add personality and texture—the finishing touches that make the room feel intentional and lived-in.
Carla and Evan managed to reinvent their kitchen on a modest budget—approximately $800—and proved that high-impact updates don’t always require major demolition or a large contractor bill. With some elbow grease, a clear plan, and well-chosen pieces, they turned a dated country-style space into something that feels modern and approachable.
Here’s the source list from Carla and Evan, which may help you recreate a similar look:
- Paint: Cabinets and chairs – Valspar Ultra White; Table – Olympic Black Magic; Walls – Benjamin Moore Ashen Tan (great color choices for balance and warmth)
- Three curtain panels: Crate & Barrel (using three panels makes a big difference for proportion and fullness)
- Table & chairs: Free! (existing pieces painted black and white as suggested)
- White placemat on table: Pottery Barn
- Blowfish fruit bowl: Anthropologie (a playful accent)
- Letter “M” in the window: Urban Outfitters (painted black)
- Round jute rug: Pottery Barn (adds texture and warmth)
- Coral decor: Pottery Barn (a small coastal touch)
- Dishtowels: Crate & Barrel
- Runner rug at stove: Crate & Barrel
Fabulous job, Carla and Evan. We love that you committed to the full refresh—the result is seriously stunning. This makeover is a reminder that thoughtful, budget-friendly updates like fresh paint, new textiles, and a few decorative pieces can breathe new life into a kitchen. Now for the fun question: what’s our favorite element? It’s a tie between the round jute rug, which grounds the space and adds rich texture, and the punchy green curtains that bring energy and personality to the room.
Update: We no longer offer client-commissioned mood boards, though we still create general inspiration boards. If that service changes in the future we’ll announce it here.