Renovation Hammer

We've got some catching up to do,  week two of our renovation.  I can honestly say it’s been super fun,  since Robert turned 50yrs old last April. He seems to be a bit more mature in his mid life. So I thought, ha-ha- once an adrenalin junkie always an adrenalin junkie.  So Cal had a bit of rain last week,  and he decided to go out for a mountain bike ride, once the rain passed  . . . Ooops just a bit muddy!!! :-)

I’ve had a few “do-it-yourselfers” interested in the mill work I chose. The reason I like to work with beadboard paneling and casing,  is because  you can get a nice professional look for a fraction of the cost of more expensive moldings.   See below for a detailed list of expenses.

Our cookie cutter home has laminate coated kitchen cabinets. yikes! Curious about painting  - Robert and I paid a visit to our local paint store,  and luckily found out that laminate could be painted over as long as we prime! Yeah!  They recommended Zinzer stain blocking primer.

The drawers and doors on the island could be painted.  This will be a substantial savings!!! :-) I was hoping not to replace the them,  this will leave more cash for vintage  lantern above the island, and additional upgrades.

With everything primed, we were ready to paint the island. I selected {Ralph Lauren Black Truffle.} It’s a lovely smoky black color.   The dark tones of the paint will complement and blend with the existing white cabinetry. Thus resulting in a stylish eclectic vibe. More plans for our white laminate cabinets at the bottom of this post.

Seen below first coat of paint . . .

 

 

 

Existing outlets to be replaced with black.

 

Note to mom: I promise to clean up the unsightly clutter behind cupboards. Even concealed places must be tidy and organized. Right mom?

Remove all doors before painting.

 

Fine grade steel wool between coats, for a smooth finish.  Always be sure to follow with tack cloth.

We chose a marine varnish, to repel any water spills on painted wood work. 

Here’s a sneak peek at the kitchen island,  before a few finishing touches and maybe a faux finish? We might have to break out the destructive sander ??? Isn’t this “VINTAGE  BLACK” out of sight?

Really makes a bold statement don’t you think? . . . . “holla” ….

 

 

Next topic of discussion, We are planning to rework the two main kitchen walls.  First upper and lower cabinets on the wall with stainless cook top. Plan of action will be to carefully remove the cabinetry directly above the hood then build larger hood surround out of ? you guess it,  more beadboard paneling and moldings.  See custom beadboard hood on our inspiration photo below.

Modify the two cabinets on either side, to half the size that they are currently. This will give us ample storage space,  stretching the space above the stove area visually,  and leave plenty room for our new custom built hood.

 

Second will be to select larger crown for the top of cabinets. We plan to use my favorite casing again to conceal the opening around the fridge.

Island upgrade expenses

two 4’ x 8’ beadboard panels $20

casing moldings                        $13

caulking                                   $5

paint & supplies                        $63

hardwood floors         Dream on!

Total                                         $91

 

WOW, I think we’ll have enough for a new farm sink at this pace. lol 

Thanks for listening,  can’t wait to share more renovation with you!