We turned a boring, outdated kitchen from 1997 into a modern, fun design without changing its footprint. We used a conversion varnish--much like automobile paint--and new hardware to turn the original, drab oak cabinetry into a fresh, distressed look that lightens the dark-brown backsplash. For that backsplash design, the homeowner said, "I like randomness and vertical lines. Do whatever you want." We finished off the kitchen with a light-brown granite and a custom walnut kitchen table.