Is there a cure for my white cabinet farmhouse kitchen envy?

10 years ago

We have a colonial type house that's a hodgepodge of styles. Our kitchen has solid birch wood cabinets that have been stained chestnut. Our black granite and mosaic backsplash seemed to work at the time but after 15 years with the same style (every room is a dark wood dark brown version of the kitchen), I suddenly have a huge case of white cabinet and farmhouse kitchen envy, quite possibly bordering on a disorder. Should I paint the cabinets white? We'll prob be in this house another 15 years, but the dark wood cabinet (especially in the chestnut stain) style seems so dated now. If I don't paint the cabinets white, any suggestions on how to brighten the spaces? Thanks for any and all suggestions!

Featured Answer

PRO

Diana Bier Interiors, LLC

10 years ago

last modified: 10 years ago

I feel your pain, Terri! I had the same issue with dark cabinets and limited light. After too many years, I gutted the kitchen and added white cabinets and 4 more windows, and also donated the cabinets so they didn't end up in a landfill.

If you can't do that, I agree that the backsplash would be the best item to change out. And unfortunately those stained glass lighting fixtures are also dating the kitchen, more than the cabinets.

I'd also eliminate the little curtain valances in the dining area and leave the windows bare. If you want to paint something, paint the walls and the table/chairs.

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Comments (17)

Lisa G
10 years ago
Your kitchen is very nice. Sure, it may be dated in terms of the stain color but your cabinets are nice and your granite color is classic.

Changing the backsplash to something light (maybe could even do a light subway tile) would do wonders I think even if you don't touch your cabinets. Maybe you can price out stripping and restaining with a lighter color (without so much red in it) or as you suggested, entertain the idea of painting them. If you really want white cabinets, consider whether your flooring would coordinate with them to get the look you're after. I would also change out your island and dining lighting for something more airy and refreshing that would support a white kitchen.
smtebo61
10 years ago
What a beautiful kitchen, cabinets, and style! I would not paint those beautiful cabinets. I think a few changes would really get you your farm kitchen. Agree with the above poster that swapping out your lighting will help. Also changing the kitchen pulls will do wonders. Changing wall colors in rooms that flow together is always an inexpensive update. If you want to spend a bit more you can add a farmers sink and perhaps switch out the island for a white one. I've attached some 'farmhouse' kitchens with darker cabinets to give you some ideas.
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smtebo61
10 years ago
One more
PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
10 years ago
I am one for painting if you want a white kitchen do it and never look back change the backsplash to something more in the farmhouse feel some farm house pendants your DR is already kind of that look just change the lighting there too
Terri
Original Author
10 years ago
Thanks to everyone who answered!
One: I think I will change the backsplash, lighting and wither leave off the curtains or change out for modern. The backsplash has to go & I really needed the push for that.

Two: I'm glad the granite Could still work which is cost effective for us right now. I thing swapping out the cabinet hardware will help too. Would I do brushed nickel?

Three: I am loving that white, farmhouse apron sink!

Though they're not exactly open concept, the walls flow together nonetheless. I was thinking of painting a jute color to lighten up all the spaces.
coemb1
10 years ago
I disagree. Paint those cabinets white! New back splash and lighting and it will be fabulous!
locodunne
10 years ago
I think your cabinets are beautiful. I agree with changing the backsplash (subway tile is a great idea). If it isn't too much trouble to change out the sink, a white farmhouse sink would look very cool. Your countertops are perfect and I like your lighting too! A country chic throw rug or two, plus some coordinating towels, utensil holders, and a decorative rooster or other country critter would bring in a more casual, farmhouse feel!
locodunne
10 years ago
A wood floor would also give you a farmhouse feel, but it is not necessary if you want to keep your costs down!
locodunne
10 years ago
Look for more rustic handles and drawer pulls as well! That is an easy, inexpensive way to update your cabinets!
jhmarie
10 years ago
The Kohler Whitehaven short apron front sink will fit on a standard base cabinet. I do not know about the ease of install with your existing granite. The only top mount farmhouse sink I know of is the Ikea one if the granite cannot be smoothly cut.

To cure white kitchenitis 1) stop watching HGTV and 2) enjoy this article:

http://victoriaelizabethbarnes.com/a-manifesto-against-the-tyranny-of-luxury-kitchens/
G
10 years ago
Unless you live in a farmhouse I would not paint your cabinets. Seriously, the trend of painting kitchens to look like they belong in a farmhouse is a trend that needs to end.
Terri
Original Author
10 years ago
With he black granite I know I can't go darker - maybe cream?
PRO
MARK IV Builders, Inc
10 years ago
Keep in mind that painted cabinets aftermarket never look nice for long. The paint wears off in high touch spots or when scraped and nicked. Then the original color shows through after time and looks sloppy. If you truly want white cabinets, tear the current ones out and replace them with white.
Judy Mishkin
10 years ago
i'd say paint your cabinets last. do the other things including the backsplash. keep taking photos from the same place same lighting (time of day) as work is done and you'll be able to see the progress in lightening up your look.

doing a good paint job takes a pro so its not like its a cheap fix. and then there is the issue of having small dings in the paint. by fixing other finishes you may decide the cabinets can stay as they are.
PRO
Stone Harbor Hardware
10 years ago
You've been given some good ideas so far! Changing out the cabinet hardware would help things feel fresh and new as well. Here's a few ideas to get you started!
Marblehead Cup Pull · More Info

Courdouan Collection · More Info

Alesund Cabinet Knob · More Info
Terri
Original Author
10 years ago
I really like the brushed nickel pull and the knob - thanks!