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cassyemkes

Need help giving my new-build kitchen/dining area some character

8 years ago

We just moved into this spec home about a month ago. Our style is modern farmhouse and we like fairly neutral colors. I hate the current lighting fixture above the table and want to switch it out, but not sure what makes sense in this space. Also not sold on the wall decor. Thinking maybe we need something less boxy - considering this mirror instead? http://www.kirklands.com/product/Distressed-Cream-Sadie-Arch-Mirror/163106.uts Very open to other options for the wall.


Also no idea what to do to make the table look "complete"


To the right of the photo is a sliding glass door that goes out onto our deck. Should I move the sign to above the door and add some sheer white curtains?


What about the kitchen area? What could I add to the countertops and pantry area to make this feel more like home?








Comments (21)

  • 8 years ago
    Vases on the wall are to much and very country if you are not going that way remove it and replace with a tall real plant in the corner next to the window.
    cassyemkes thanked KK1000
  • 8 years ago
    PS the garbage bin needs a new home out of sight.
  • 8 years ago
    what about something like some or shiplap on the wall? would add visual interest and you don't need as much decor. I think you have to many things that are small and it makes the wall look busy while still missing something. you could also add a large clock or mirror
  • 8 years ago

    I love the shiplap idea - Just not sure if it would have to continue above the kitchen cabinets to the left because there is no clear break in the wall?

    There is a large clock on the wall adjacent to the sliding glass door. I like the idea of some sort of mirror to make the tight space seem a little bigger. What about this?

  • 8 years ago
    Maybe this photo will provide you with some inspiration on accessories/decor. If you click on the learn more link there are many photos of the kitchen and the home. I think it relates well to your home because of its clean lines and while it's farmhouse style it's more minimal.
    Modern Farmhouse in Altadore · More Info

    I think art would add more than a mirror, but the Kirkland mirror is an improvement. White sheers would be nice. I suggest linen or similar to add texture. Don't put sign above patio doors, but it might work above pantry door.
    cassyemkes thanked MarleneM
  • 8 years ago

    invest some money in a big beautiful mirror and remove all in that wall

    cassyemkes thanked dyliane
  • 8 years ago
    last modified: 8 years ago

    a better chandelier, curtains and new chairs will help to

  • 8 years ago

    I love the idea of a big piece of artwork on the wall, but I'm not sure what "modern farmhouse" artwork looks like. Any abstract art seems too contemporary, but I'm not interested in pictures of pigs either. Any ideas?

  • 8 years ago
    last modified: 8 years ago

    Can you post a photo from the wall with the mirror so we can get a better sense of the space?

  • 8 years ago

    I love all the impressionists like this one of Van Gogh for example. You can have it stamped in watercolor paper and will be like a paint https://fineartamerica.com/products/wheatfield-with-lark-vincent-van-gogh-art-print.html

    you need to think what you like, a landscaping, people, flowers.. and start looking

  • 8 years ago

    Here are a couple photos from the back wall where the mirror is. We recently purchased new sofas in a dark gray/blue color.

  • 8 years ago

    Some examples of more contemporary abstract art in a farmhouse dining room. B/W photography would work as well.

  • 8 years ago

    Here's an example based on your cabinets, table and light blue pillow on the sofa.


  • 8 years ago

    I get you, although I do like some of the abstract farm animal art, I wouldn't want them looking at me while having dinner, lol! Landscapes and botanicals would be a better choice. Find something that evokes to you a feeling of a simpler time. IMO that's what farmhouse is about. Below are some I found in an Internet search.

    cassyemkes thanked MarleneM
  • 8 years ago
    The rooms need art and color to bring them some life. Everything is in the same tones. Gray, brown, beige, cream, white and black need color to live. The mirror "window" and the flower cones add nothing to the room. Add art on those bare walls. Then add color in accessories, books, and rugs, maybe a real plant here and there, flowers in a vase.
  • 8 years ago

    @kjoy1 I absolutely love the botanical prints. I actually have a similar gallery wall in my entryway already (shown below). Would love to do additional prints but maybe in a different configuration? Not sure if that would be gallery wall overload. Any ideas for a new way to do the same thing?

    @fllizlady I plan to add a rug in the living room once our new blue/gray sofas arrive. I agree we need a bit of colorful accents, but I do like the overall neutral palate.

  • 8 years ago

    Cassy...your gallery wall looks great!

    I think what you have going on looks good and new lighting will complete the space...


    Another idea I had was a succulent wall or herb pots

  • 8 years ago

    I have been obsessed with these white beaded chandeliers lately. Here are a few...

  • 8 years ago
    Shades of light.
  • 8 years ago
    Hello,
    I would hang the market sign above the pantry door. Hang an oblong mirror...wood the shade of the dining table or metal...the mirror you have is nice...much better if it were oblong. Same shape for lighting above the table. Choose an accent color you like, and add a tea kettle, table runner, floor rug in front of sink with the color you choose. Then a large rustic wooden fruit bowl on the island. Artwork on the light switch wall that includes your accent color. Yes on the curtains, add a nice wood rod with maybe industrial metal supports. Find a better home for waste can. Good Luck!