My Top Kitchen Projects of 2023

December 21, 2023
nicole

Hi! I'm Nicole

Interior Designer. Fearless DIYer. Sharing interior design tips and building project tutorials. Let’s design and build something beautiful together. For more design tips, projects and behind the scenes, follow me @designtobuild.nicole

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Pretty much from day one of moving into our house (over 15 years ago), I have wanted to re-do our kitchen. The original design was so small and felt so crowded when more than one person was trying to work in the kitchen. And with 7 of us, that was all of the time.

Taking on this kitchen project was a big undertaking for me and felt a bit overwhelming, but exciting at the same time. I learned so much along the way. And am so very proud of all the hard work I did to make it happen.

DIY is so rewarding. Stepping back and looking at the work and being able to say, “I did that”, is an incredible feeling.

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Here are 6 kitchen DIY’s that made the biggest difference in my kitchen. Sharing them with you, so you too, can step back and say, “I did that!”

My Top Kitchen Projects

Easy How to Build a DIY Kitchen Island

Building an island for my kitchen was an absolute must. I have missed having a kitchen island, since the day we moved in. Getting to design my own island with all of the features and the look I wanted, was so much fun!

Kitchen island with a large artwork behind it

From Boring Pantry to a DIY Butler’s Pantry Makeover

Our pantry is not huge by any means, but still big enough to turn it into a butler’s pantry.

Utilizing the space more efficiently, I was able to move our countertop appliances and our microwave to the pantry. This was a game changer in our kitchen.

I loved being able to free up that countertop space while still having a dedicated space for all of these everyday tools.

Girl standing in butler's pantry as part of the DIY Kitchen Updates post

Easy How to DIY Faux Marble Countertops

Kitchen remodels can be very expensive. To cut down on the extra costs, I figured out ways to work with what I already have. My countertops were one of those things.

I knew replacing all of them would really cut into my kitchen budget. So, I decided to keep them and finish them in a way that would complement my kitchen.

The before and afters of these countertops is unbelievable! It’s amazing what paint can do!

Painted canvas in kitchen next to countertop for decorate kitchen countertops post

How to Replace Kitchen Cabinet Doors for a New Look

Changing out my dated cabinet doors for more modern doors changed the entire look of my kitchen. Such an easy way to give your kitchen a complete modern facelift without breaking the bank.

If you do nothing else but replace your cabinet doors, you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes.

I chose shaker doors from The Cabinet Door Store and was so pleased with their beautiful product. Installing the cabinet doors was so easy too. I show you exactly how in this post.

View of full modern kitchen makeover reveal

Easy How to Extend Kitchen Cabinets to the Ceiling

Extending the kitchen cabinets to the ceiling makes my kitchen feel taller and more spacious. This easy DIY brought my kitchen up-to-date. No more awkward open space at the top that I’m trying to figure out what to do with. :(

kitchen cabinets to the ceiling using plywood and trimmed out

Easy How to Build a Modern Sliding Door that is Timeless

Some may say, sliding barn doors are no longer in style. But I would have to argue with that and say, I disagree.

The statement these doors make in my kitchen is so good! I love that they serve a purpose too. Being able to close off the kitchen at times is nice.

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I’m excited to see what building projects await me in 2024. I have quite a few of them on my mind and I can’t wait to share them with you.

Designer Tip: When It Might Be Time to Bring in Help

If you’re working on your home and things still don’t feel quite right, you’re not alone. Many of our clients start exactly where you are now. They’ve gathered ideas, saved inspiration photos, and maybe even purchased a few pieces, but the space still doesn’t feel cohesive. That’s often the moment when having a designer can make all the difference. We help homeowners create a clear plan so every decision works together. From layout and furniture placement to finishes and lighting, the goal is a space that feels thoughtful, comfortable, and complete.

If you’d like a little guidance with your space, you can learn more about our interior design services below.

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Planning a kitchen, living room, or full home project? Start with a quick discovery call to see if we’re a good fit.

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Let’s go beyond the design to build something beautiful together!

More DIY Posts:

My Top Building Projects of 2023

My Top Wall Art Tutorials of 2023

My Top Kitchen Design Posts of 2023

 

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