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How can I update my builder grade kitchen

last year

How can I upgrade this builder grade kitchen without changing the cabinets?

I’m willing to buy cabinets that would go on top of existing to take the cabinets to the ceiling.
Also willing to replace the vent hood cabinet with something else.
I’m thinking brushed brass hardware and replacing the island pendants.
I have no idea what backsplash would look good with this.
Can I add something to my island where the drywall is?
Any help is appreciated!

Comments (6)

  • last year

    Not sure if my photo attached to the original post

  • last year

    You don't have room to put more cabinet above what you have - the proportions are wrong for that.

    Have you purchased appliances yet? I recommend a counter-depth fridge, since your fridge surround only comes out as far as the edge of the cabinets.

    I doubt you have an exterior vent for the range hood, and it looks to be in an inside wall. I had the same situation, and I had a vent put in that exhausts through the roof. That may not be high on your priority list right now, but it's something to consider for the future.

    It's hard to tell from the photo, but it looks like you already have a backsplash? Or they just didn't paint the wall where the range hood will go. Luckily you can live without a backsplash until you decide what you really want.

    I don't think the island needs anything, though I'm not crazy about the wall color - it doesn't match the white trim, but it's close enough to look like they tried to match and missed.

  • PRO
    last year

    I would replace the island pendants with larger ones with shades that don't give a glare (ho bare bulbs) plus install them lower (30" - 32" above the island counter). I think that once you install your appliances and place your furniture the room and some accessories the room will look lived-in and inviting.


  • last year

    Have you moved in?

    How long have you lived there?

    Have you bought all the furniture or other household stuff you need/want?

    The kitchen is fine for several years while you decide what you might want to improve and then save up the money for the changes.

    I would want drawers instead of lower cabinets and uppers to the ceiling and would plan and save up for a future major improvement. In my previous house I had the money to remodel the kitchen, but still waited 7 years before I tackled it.

    Make sure you get extra flooring NOW, before it is discontinued. Store the extra flooring for any future remodeling or repairs.

  • last year

    What is your budget for changes? That restricks the changes that can be made. 20K? 40K? 60K? Even using a pro for painting and cladding the island with panels would be 10-12K.

  • PRO
    last year

    A kitchen is a very expensive room. This is builder grade because adding those designer details costs designer money. What is your budget? What are your DIY skills? What do you hate the most, and are most willing to spend a lot of money to correct?


    Start by picking a COLOR for your walls other than the lockdown gray. A great turquoise, or warm toasty yellow, or maybe even a sagey green. Then add towels, art, stools, etc.