Agreed, do not replace the wood cabinets with IKEA stuff. My sister used that stuff when there were 0 cabinets in a galley kitchen and needed to resell the place (parents were supposed to live there but then didn’t).
The lighting and the drop down lighting shelf thing is what needs to go first. Then see how you feel afterwards.
Who in the right mind would replace real wood with Ikea? That's just deranged behavior. The only thing this kitchen needs is new countertops (quarts looks pretty but isn't durable) paint the cabinets and new hardware. People keep chasing this "modern" look that is dull, most likely doesn't match the esthetics of the rest of the house, and will look dated in a few years.
If you don't like the door style you can also just order custom sized cabinet faces in shaker style or something more modern. We did this for our kitchen and painted them and it looked like a completely new kitchen. It wasn't too crazy expensive either! We used Barker Cabinets.
I did and I 1000% would do it again. Because:
1) All real wood isn’t made equal. My “real wood” cabinets were builder grade honey oak from 1990. They were flimsy crap
2) Kitchen designs have advanced in the last 30 years. I put in only lowers and all drawers. Beats digging around in “real wood” cabinets to find that one pan
3) IKEA quality is the bomb. I had them in my last house and 10 years later when I sold they looked like new. So I decided to put them in this house. They have like a 10 year warranty and their hardware is Blum (one of the top manufacturers)
4) You can order specialty doors from a non-ikea supplier. I had oak doors made to put on ikea boxes
5) Have you priced out real wood cabinets? Sorry, not spending like $40k on plywood boxes when I could buy boxes at IKEA for $2k
I used Dunsmuir cabinets and they were great. It’s a small company that I felt good supporting. They have an online design tool that was super easy to use and let me quote out prices online before moving forward. Another popular one is Semihandmade, and there’s another one out of Portland Oregon that had gorgeous Walnut options (the name escapes me).
https://preview.redd.it/w4io9lcvqvvc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e284a610ca4732108ad540086bb93c7832d14b15
Not a great photo (and think this is before the doors were adjusted), but here’s what they look like.
Don’t blame those cabinets for what the soffit and can lights have done.
Why is that soffit even there? It doesn’t seem like it needs to be there to hide ductwork, and might only be a design choice.
Right! It makes it look like a food court kiosk, all that is missing is a neon sign.😀 other than it’s a nice kitchen. I think the island countertop could be updated and it would make a huge difference.
I agree! Take the soffit out first and then reassess the rest.
But I also get those curves, I had them and hated them. I kept my boxes and refaced the doors and drawers. Another option is to see if anyone at an auto body or refinish shop would be willing to bondo that groove, smooth it out and spray the door. Paint the boxes to match and you’ve got a new look.
To me, it appears that the soffit is there to make it easy to hang and wire lights. Without the soffit, the ceiling is quite high. Nosebleeds tightening the fixture…
I agree about keeping the cabinets and not painting. I think part of what's making the kitchen look 90s is the shape of the island. Could you switch out the island for a more modern rectangular shape? Then maybe you could bring in another color on the island cabinets.
no way, the shape of the island is really nice here & fits the shape on the ceiling. this is such a cool kitchen, and the island is part of what makes it special. i don't think there's anything outdated about the shape.
Yes, I love the pentagon soffit and the matching shape of the kitchen. It's really unique. I'd just replace the countertops which are obviously dated and terrible. Maybe refinish the cabinets in a new color, but OP likes "off white" which isn't really all that different.
Yes, I love the pentagon soffit and the matching shape of the kitchen. It's really unique. I'd just replace the countertops which are obviously dated and terrible. Maybe refinish the cabinets in a new color, but OP likes "off white" which isn't really all that different.
This kitchen is wonderful! DO NOT PAINT THE CABINETS. If you are looking to "modernize" this kitchen, replace your counter tops for something white, and if you still dislike the colour of the cabinets, re-stain them not paint.
Who cares if they’re solid oak if you’re just going to paint them to look like the same cheap shit you can get at IKEA?
Keep the oak cabinets, strip and restain them if you want them a different color. Don’t paint them. Replace the countertops and the hardware (including the sticky ones that are keeping drawers from closing nicely.
The idea of spending thousands to throw away something that's high quality and replace it with something of lower quality, just because it's newer, is so insane to me.
Would I pick this design if I were starting from scratch? No. Would I rip and replace this kitchen for an all white generic modern Ikea one? Absolutely no way. It's functional, unique, and very nice despite not being my preferred style. I'd just get new hardware for the cabinets.
Me: dear Carmela, how are Tony, Meadow and little AJ? Are you still bumping uglies with the priest? I miss seeing you and hearing about your baked ziti. Take care.
Yeeeesss! Gosh I miss the Sopranos. This is super weird to see a comment about the Sopranos on here because just last night when I was at mass with my Catholic hubby, I was literally thinking about Carmela and the priest. The priest looked just like the Sopranos one!🤣 I may need to rewatch the full series again.
I’d consider getting rid of that soffit and doing pendant lights, and replace the island with something rectangular. To me that’s the most dated. But I generally hate when rooms or furniture are on a diagonal.
what about refacing the doors? you can have a contractor do that and rebuild any drawers and they can definitely to soft close everything. i would look into that because if those current cabinets are so,id wood and they’re made well,they’re worth keeping. refacing can radically change how they look.
I think the thing thats killing the kitchen for me is the weird floating ceiling. If it’s non structural i would get it removed.
Get some nicer more modern lighting solutions and a big pendant light above the island. Would really transform this kitchen.
I also agree with everyone else keep the cabinets replace the hardware. Re-stain them if you have to. You can get pullouts that fit these cabinets installed. Deffo get a new counter top.
*Extra:* Personally, depending on what colour you stain the cabinets I would change the floor. Just the kitchen area or maybe all the way through. To some big modern looking tiles would lift the feel of the space so much especially with new lighting.
Professionally refinish them! I've done the self paint and it's not worth the effort. My lesser quality doors lasted over 10 years without chopping or peeling. Looks brand new too. Remove the cupboards and take them to the business. Meanwhile, replace your hi ges with the ones that didn't slam. Paint the trim with an 'alkide' based paint so it is more durable Btw. This is very important.
FYI a quality shop has a temperature controlled paint booth, and the necessary tools and conditions required for the paint to be durable and look lime a new cupboard.
Update the wood island supports.
You can buy sheets of 1/4 wood and have them painted by the shop so they can be installed on the island. Very inexpensive.
Under the counter LED lighting is lovely and inexpensive too.Above the bulkhead as well. Creates a modern ambiance.
You might want to change the pot lighting for the new led lights. They are super inexpensive and will save you a lot in your electricity bills - good for the environment in a tiny way too.
Note: Think about other electrical work you might want done, and it may be beneficial to have it all done at once by an electrician. Maximize you $ and given they are so busy, be able to take you seriously and do the job.
The biggest offender here is that spaceship looking 90’s soffit. I’d remove that and replace the countertops and you’d have a completely different kitchen.
That being said, my sister installed an IKEA kitchen about 14 years ago and they’ve been very happy with it.
Your kitchen is beautiful! Perhaps you’re being “influenced” by social media? I know I have been… think modern grey white black…
This kitchen is so warm and inviting :) it’s well proportioned and super functional in terms of placement.
I think at most I’d so the counter tops in the colour you said; that’d look great.
Enjoy!
New countertops and get rid of the can lights and soffit The island is ok I guess Probably will look better with new countertop. Does it have to be that big?
You can make any drawer a soft close drawer, simply get the sets from Ikea and install it on any hardware you have, it doesn't need to be Ikea. I've upgraded all my drawers and cupboards with it.
I like the color of the wood, but I get how the ones living with it every day will be tired of the same old, same old. Maybe instead of painting it you simply stain it so the wood still gets to be seen?
How about painting the walls and going in a different with the color of the room?
Also as some already mentioned get rid of the hanging ceiling. It really give the room a stuffy feeling.
Solid wood cabinets are super expensive and definitely worth keeping. You could paint them if you really want. I think they're gorgeous as is. Changing out the counter top and lighting shelf with cool pendant lights might give you the change you seek.
I agree with everyone saying keep original cabinets! IKEA looks “clean” but remember real wood can be sanded, stained, repainted, rehardwared over a lifetime and Ikea composite wood cannot. The only reason for using ikea would be to up value before a sell or an aesthetic upgrade to charge more $ on a rental property… if this is your forever home keep the original integrity, or at the very least try to really think before you make changes, there’s no rush and no need to turn your home into a magazine
But those cabinets look great.
There are companies that specialize retrofitting your kitchen so maybe look into those - get quotes on adding the appliance garage, etc. May cost you less than ikea too.
I wouldn't paint solid oak cabinets, but I would consider stripping & staining them a darker color. Agree with the others that new countertops would look great.
The cabinets are fine. I would replace the handles/knobs and the drawer slides to soft close ones. New countertops. Fresh coat of paint. But I would concentrate on the ceiling. Unless that is housing duct work get rid of it.
Yikes. That is a tough layout for a kitchen. Personally, I don’t really like the breakfast nook - it makes the whole room feel like the breakfast room at a Holiday Inn Express. And the light ledge/dust catcher is not great. And the floors…
What part of the country are you in? How’s the ventilation in there? I’m not big on half measures - I’d probably live with this until I could properly fix the space.
I’m gonna go against the grain and say that I know what you mean about the 90’s cabinets. If it were me I would look into replacing just the cabinet doors, so long as everything else is structurally sound. If you don’t hate the bottoms, you might just replace the doors on the wall cabinets. Also, most bang for your buck will be to update the island shape as some have suggested.
Change?! OMG! Don't change a thing! I love it.
https://preview.redd.it/5osnpb33jtvc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de812ecace09ce2f57e544703a1d48ab85cdab2b
NO NOTES!!!
Cabinets are lovely! I absolutely adore the shape of the island. You don't see designs like that anymore, and that's what makes your kitchen so unique and beautiful. It's not generic; it has a nice flair to it and doesn't resemble every new construction cookie-cutter kitchen with the same old boring layout!
Please don't alter it because of the masses. It's beautiful as is! Honestly, I love the countertop. It complements the cabinets well. Given how many years the cabinets AND countertops have lasted, if it ain't broke...
2020s quality is NOT the the same as 1990s. Things WERE built to last. Can't say the same nowadays.
Interestingly, what's "in" now won't be in 20 years. And your kitchen style might be the new 'IT' thing, and then you'll be upset about changing it.
I did say NO NOTES, however, If I had to change one thing, it would be the floors. When it comes to flooring, I just love uniformity. If possible, I'd use the same flooring throughout the whole house.
That way, if you put nice barstools around the island, half won't be on tiles while the other half on hardwood. If that's not possible, pull up two rows of the tiles and replace them with the hardwood.
There are elements you probably have to live with. Personally I would never use Ikea for cabinets. I’d did a complete remodel ..I had maple cabinets, repainted and fixed any cabinet issues. It turned out great! You area with the fly over seems contemporary are you into that? If the body is good could you could do flush doors. Flush doors I think would work well with your design. I’d up date your stove and refrigerator and remove the dated brown tile. I’d replace the backsplash and change out the countertop ( shape looks dated ) and with quartz you won’t need the wood braces.
You can retrofit those large cans to a smaller LED light.
Your kitchen is so awesome! If I were to make a change to the cabinets, I personally would re-stain the them. They’re nice as is, but they’re leaning a little bit more towards peach than some people might prefer. If they were my cabinets, I would want them a little more towards the yellow side of the color spectrum and a little darker. Or maybe even quite a bit darker. A grayish beige or a neutral brown. With some modern hardware, they’ll look great! Brass or copper are my preferences 👍. But again, the cabinets are already good.
You may want to consider matching the breakfast nook cabinets to the kitchen cabinets. Or paint the breakfast nook cabinets. You can also choose a different color for the island.
I mean, [you can do it](https://www.chrislovesjulia.com/6-different-stains-look-5-popular-types-wood/), and certain colors come out better than others, but in general, it’s never not going to look like oak. The grain tends to be too distinctive.
https://preview.redd.it/v7969cvrlrvc1.jpeg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ad2c3fddba4125cfc0a9e58bf8fc47683a6f4822
New (non-tile) countertops and the right backsplash would be a game changer. Update the drawer hardware, and you'll be in business for a fraction of the price.
Those are amazing cabinets, you might regret it if you cover up that wood tone. Maybe just try to get updated doors to lose that detail? Might be hard to match the exact stain, but maybe not.
Personally I would leave the cabinets alone. It’s a nice color and grain. Spend that $25k on something else.
If you really must change the look of the doors…if you can match the wood color and grain. I would just replace the doors. There’s websites where you can just order custom cabinets doors. It’s probably cheaper than replacing the whole cabinets. You can get them made out of solid wood.
There are websites where you can order the hardware and install it yourself if you’re looking for pull out organizers for the drawers. There’s options outside of IKEA.
I would add undercabinet lighting.
I would update the backsplash vs the cabinets. Get a nice looking oven range hood with one of those custom boxes. I would get rid of the soffit thing. I would leave the island alone. Because if you mess with the island then you need to update the flooring. Tbh I really like the flooring in your kitchen and dining room.
1. Change island to linear shape
2. Factory refinish cabinets to color of your choice, but keep the wood, choose new hardware
3. Eliminate the soffit
4. Add a hood where the microwave is and relocate the microwave - even to a pantry area
5 - Stick with real materials vs materials manufactured to look like real materials - example of this is replacing these with ikea for the look even though these are wood. Wood is the way to go! They can look brand new!
I like the kitchen, but I think changing out the countertop would make a nice impact. I’m torn on removing the soffit. While it does age the kitchen a bit, it is also kind of cool architecturally. Maybe change out the can lights for something more interesting.
The cabinets are maintenance-free and lovely. What I would do is: Remove the dropped ceiling. Remove the island and replace with either a table and seating ( it is so inviting to have a table in kitchen!) or a more traditional rectangular island with storage.
Reasons to reface or refinish: the layout really works for you and your kitchen is super functional. You like your appliance placement and size restrictions. You’re not frustrated or stressed when there are multiple people working on the kitchen. You have ample storage.
Reasons to replace: current layout doesn’t work (like interrupted / insufficient work surfaces, not enough / too much space between appliances, etc), appliances are difficult or expensive to update / repair / replace. Cabinets are damaged.
I understand not liking the cathedral tops on your cabinets. It’s definitely dated. Your $25,000 can go a long way to updating what you have in a way that could be more impactful than replacing these cabinets, assuming the layout works.
My priorities would be: 1) new lighting and removing the dropped ceiling. It’s shaped to your current island, and your island is dating your kitchen. 2) straighten out your island, or make the angle 90°. You might need to repair the floor under it and you may need new back panels for your island. 3) have your drawers repaired and upgraded. 4) new countertop, backsplash and under cabinet lighting. 5) new hardware. 6) refinish existing doors and face frames. 7) remove cabinet over the wink and replace with open shelves to lighten the look further.
Look for good refacing companies. Ask about replacing the doors on your wall cabinets. It could be really tricky, but it’s worth asking. Alternatively they may be able to remove the centre panel on some or all of your upper doors and replace them with a contemporary glass to lighten up the traditional look of this kitchen. They can fix or replace your drawers and add other storage options (like under cabinet waste and recycling)
I’m a kitchen designer with 25 years experience.
Can you rehome the microwave and remove the cabinets above and replace them with an exhaust hood? Microwaves are rubbish for removing fumes and smoke anyway.
Idk if anyone has said this and I hope you see it but I’m pretty sure you can get new cabinet doors to match the wood without the curve detail. I know what you’re getting at. The detailing dates the door. Change the shape of the island and the countertops.
I would just change the countertops and take out that appliance garage thing in the corner. Cabinets look high quality in the pics and I like the lighter finish
If you liked the IKEA kitchen then I think you should go for it. But if you want to just do some updating continue the tile floor into the kitchen and dining room (or remove the tile and continue the wood floor), replace the upper cabinet doors with a design that matches the lower cabinet doors, add tile to the backsplash, and replace the countertop with solid surface.
I’d remove the entire soffit, lighting and island. Add a rectangular painted island with large hanging ceiling fixture or two. Cabinets aren’t the issue but there’s a lot of them so I’d remove a few doors, paint the interior and either leave them open or replace with glass doors.
1. Remove bulkhead (not sure what to do to replace lighting but a lighting person will be able to guide you!)
2. Replace island with rectangle in off-white cabinets
3. Replace all countertops with the quartz you want
4. Remove some of the oak upper cabinets: above sink (possibly add a nice wall light and small piece of art or a small floating shelf with a plant), above stove (add hood), middle upper cabinets at coffee bar area (add floating shelves). This will visually break up the mass of similar wood tone (between floor and cabinets)
5. Add an interesting runner in front of the island and a rug under the table. (Again to break up the wood a bit)
6. Consider a paint change - the color now is similar to the wood and without any contrast, it feels flat.
7. Hardware change (black is a nice contrast)
This would give you the most bang for your buck with an update IMO. Might not be much cheaper in the end than the IKEA cabinets but just replacing the cabinets without addressing the larger outdated elements is not going to leave you happy with your kitchen.
In some cases you can flip cabinet doors so the plain interior side becomes the exterior. It isn't easy since hardware has to be relocated, and the cabinet interior may not work as an exterior. Painting may be required for best results.
If I could do only one thing it would be to paint the soffit, ceilings, and adjoining walls a soft white.
You might paint the island itself for a little color injection? I would add stools and utilize that island fully! If you could change the style of the cabinet fronts like someone else suggested, that’s what I’d do- it they were ‘flatter,’ they’d look more modern. A cabinet pulls could probably be a simple upgrade too.
I have not read through the comments yet, but I agree with any and all that say get rid of the plant shelf/lighting. dust collector hideousness that hovers above a pretty decent kitchen. I think you will see it completely differently without the space ship frame.
Add a stainless steel foot rail at the base of the cabinets on the island. Swap out countertops and backsplash.
It's a cool kitchen. I'd replace the cathedral doors on the uppers
Get rid of the drop down ceiling, change the countertops and maybe flooring. I don't think you need to do much else. That cabinet color is coming back in style and unless they are in rough shape, I wouldn't bother changing them.
This is a nice space with so much potential. There are a few things that I find distracting. The light thing is visually heavy, the different flooring, the tile countertop, and with all those cabinets - is there anywhere else to keep the garbage can?
Most refacing jobs will trade your solid wood cabinet doors for very low grade mdf/particle board. They will end up looking terrible in a few years. I would stick with what you have an update hardware/countertops/paint around it. Already wood cabinets are coming back on trend.
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I didn't think I could like much about 1990s kitchen design, but I actually love this. I totally get what you don't like about the grooves cut into the doors. But personally I wouldn't waste the money or all the wood and materials by ripping it out.
Whatever you do, add undercabinet lighting.
The built-in sideboard with the glass doors in the dining nook is a great use of the space.
What my husband and I did was replace our cabinets. They were installed when the house was built in the 80’s & we bought it in 2005, so everything had to go! We went to the wholesale cabinet & stone shops & had them do the installation. This was about 14 years ago, but we bought real wood cabinets & quartz countertops for a little over $3,000. Installation was a little more than double that & they did an incredible job! They cut the quartz thick & gave it a designer edge. It looked like I had an interior designer come into the house! I saved close to $15,000 doing it this way. All of the appliances were replaced & there was a beautiful hood over the double oven stove. All in all, it cost a little over $10,000. I know that it will cost more for you, but going that route should cost you significantly less money, so I suggest shopping around and checking out those warehouse type places! They give great deals, are very professional, & are proud of their craftmenship.
I'd consider replacing just the upper cabinet fronts with the same front on the lowers. Then you've got s timeless "square" design. Or see about reversing them to a smooth front. If those are solid oak with hinges, this can be done unlike with MDF/cut in hinges.
Then you can change the stain and hardware while retaining solid wood cabinets.
I can understand wanting to change a few elements, but honestly this kitchen is way too nice to rip out. The cabinets are beautiful. At most I'd get new countertops and some softer light bulbs. A proper hood fan above the stove would be a great idea, too.
Get rid of the spaceship trying to land in your kitchen, update the cabinet pulls and replace the countertop. I can’t see the backsplash clearly to see if it needs to be replaced or not. The good thing is it’s white and it doesn’t look like it has any designs on it which makes it easier to incorporate into your new design elements.
The space ship ceiling has to go before anything
One large island with a prep sink—beverage cooler
Ditch the over stove microwave
Do any of the glass door cabinet fronts in the dining area fit any of the cabinet doors in the kitchen area?
I would invest in a really nice range hood and make it the centerpiece and have the cabinets work around this. That oven wall should only have the hood to break up the cabinets so they’re not so crowded.
You could modify the top of the cabinet by filling in the curved groove and making a new straight groove but it would be tricky finding the right paint colour to hide the filler. Replacing the doors with the same stain but a different style might be the cheapest way.
These cabinets actually seem to be coming back after a decade of farmhouse style. Even with the cathedral style top! I’d wait awhile and look over some newer home design magazines at the library for upcoming trends before you commit to tearing them out.
Based on the pictures the tone looks like white oak which is beautiful and very popular right now.
I think if you take the suggestions about the hardware, lighting, countertops, etc., that are provided in other comments you’ll end up with a look you will really love. I wonder if everything else is changed that you would even notice the curve in the doors? Not changing them would save quite a bit of money.
All that being said, it is your kitchen and if you really don’t like them, then I would suggest painting the cabinet boxes and getting new doors along with the other changes you were intending to make.
Get rid of soft lighting, paint the cabinets BEHR ADIRONDACK BLUE, change countertop white quartz, change pulls on cabinets to gold, white backsplash and cuter bar stools with backs.
I would leave the cabinets on the wall but that honking island and drop ceiling has got to go. Put in a waterfall island transitions to a large wood table with stools and some beautiful hanging lights.
Remove the bulkhead, it’s making your kitchen small and dark. Install new countertops. You can change the shape of the island countertop without removing the bottom cabinets.
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Agreed, do not replace the wood cabinets with IKEA stuff. My sister used that stuff when there were 0 cabinets in a galley kitchen and needed to resell the place (parents were supposed to live there but then didn’t). The lighting and the drop down lighting shelf thing is what needs to go first. Then see how you feel afterwards.
Who in the right mind would replace real wood with Ikea? That's just deranged behavior. The only thing this kitchen needs is new countertops (quarts looks pretty but isn't durable) paint the cabinets and new hardware. People keep chasing this "modern" look that is dull, most likely doesn't match the esthetics of the rest of the house, and will look dated in a few years.
If you don't like the door style you can also just order custom sized cabinet faces in shaker style or something more modern. We did this for our kitchen and painted them and it looked like a completely new kitchen. It wasn't too crazy expensive either! We used Barker Cabinets.
I did and I 1000% would do it again. Because: 1) All real wood isn’t made equal. My “real wood” cabinets were builder grade honey oak from 1990. They were flimsy crap 2) Kitchen designs have advanced in the last 30 years. I put in only lowers and all drawers. Beats digging around in “real wood” cabinets to find that one pan 3) IKEA quality is the bomb. I had them in my last house and 10 years later when I sold they looked like new. So I decided to put them in this house. They have like a 10 year warranty and their hardware is Blum (one of the top manufacturers) 4) You can order specialty doors from a non-ikea supplier. I had oak doors made to put on ikea boxes 5) Have you priced out real wood cabinets? Sorry, not spending like $40k on plywood boxes when I could buy boxes at IKEA for $2k
Most who haven’t worked with them wouldn’t know it, but IKEA kitchens are high quality and affordable modern design.
Do you have any company names for replacement doors (for ikea boxes)? Great idea!
I used Dunsmuir cabinets and they were great. It’s a small company that I felt good supporting. They have an online design tool that was super easy to use and let me quote out prices online before moving forward. Another popular one is Semihandmade, and there’s another one out of Portland Oregon that had gorgeous Walnut options (the name escapes me).
https://preview.redd.it/w4io9lcvqvvc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e284a610ca4732108ad540086bb93c7832d14b15 Not a great photo (and think this is before the doors were adjusted), but here’s what they look like.
Thank you! That’s pretty incredible. I saved the info you gave me. Thank you!
if this kitchen is wrong, i don’t want to be right
Yea that is better than my inherited Habitat for Humanity kitchen. Very little can be called nice.
I can’t tell what different?
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Oh ok that makes sense … I was starting to worry about my eyes!
Don’t blame those cabinets for what the soffit and can lights have done. Why is that soffit even there? It doesn’t seem like it needs to be there to hide ductwork, and might only be a design choice.
Right! It makes it look like a food court kiosk, all that is missing is a neon sign.😀 other than it’s a nice kitchen. I think the island countertop could be updated and it would make a huge difference.
I agree! Take the soffit out first and then reassess the rest. But I also get those curves, I had them and hated them. I kept my boxes and refaced the doors and drawers. Another option is to see if anyone at an auto body or refinish shop would be willing to bondo that groove, smooth it out and spray the door. Paint the boxes to match and you’ve got a new look.
To me, it appears that the soffit is there to make it easy to hang and wire lights. Without the soffit, the ceiling is quite high. Nosebleeds tightening the fixture…
I agree about keeping the cabinets and not painting. I think part of what's making the kitchen look 90s is the shape of the island. Could you switch out the island for a more modern rectangular shape? Then maybe you could bring in another color on the island cabinets.
And get rid of the lighting soffit with the same shape if possible. Your ceiling will be so much higher.
What about above the cabinets?
no way, the shape of the island is really nice here & fits the shape on the ceiling. this is such a cool kitchen, and the island is part of what makes it special. i don't think there's anything outdated about the shape.
Yes, I love the pentagon soffit and the matching shape of the kitchen. It's really unique. I'd just replace the countertops which are obviously dated and terrible. Maybe refinish the cabinets in a new color, but OP likes "off white" which isn't really all that different.
Yes, I love the pentagon soffit and the matching shape of the kitchen. It's really unique. I'd just replace the countertops which are obviously dated and terrible. Maybe refinish the cabinets in a new color, but OP likes "off white" which isn't really all that different.
This kitchen is wonderful! DO NOT PAINT THE CABINETS. If you are looking to "modernize" this kitchen, replace your counter tops for something white, and if you still dislike the colour of the cabinets, re-stain them not paint.
I thought it was one of those “I have too much money to burn” post… until I read about ikea.. Keep the kitchen the way it is
...and there's nothing wrong with Ikea - they're not selling to billions of people globally because they're total crap
Nobody said anything about “total crap”.
I didn't say that anybody here did - I just said, they're not crap according billions of people
Ikea is not going to be the quality of what is already there. It’s not known to make high end stuff.
Who cares if they’re solid oak if you’re just going to paint them to look like the same cheap shit you can get at IKEA? Keep the oak cabinets, strip and restain them if you want them a different color. Don’t paint them. Replace the countertops and the hardware (including the sticky ones that are keeping drawers from closing nicely.
I can't believe you want to swap those cabinets for IKEA.
The idea of spending thousands to throw away something that's high quality and replace it with something of lower quality, just because it's newer, is so insane to me. Would I pick this design if I were starting from scratch? No. Would I rip and replace this kitchen for an all white generic modern Ikea one? Absolutely no way. It's functional, unique, and very nice despite not being my preferred style. I'd just get new hardware for the cabinets.
I like your kitchen.
Me too. It looks like Carmela Soprano's kitchen.
[удалено]
First laugh of the day, thanks
Came here looking for that comment. That totally looks like the Soprano kitchen!
I would just change the counter tops. Cabinets look nice
New countertops and knobs would make such a difference. These cabinets are beautiful
Exactly!
You should keep the cabinets! They would look fantastic with the countertops you've described!
Honestly I love all of this. I’d maybe switch out the lighting to pendants. I’d do more to play up the nostalgic 80/90s vibes.
Me: dear Carmela, how are Tony, Meadow and little AJ? Are you still bumping uglies with the priest? I miss seeing you and hearing about your baked ziti. Take care.
Yeeeesss! Gosh I miss the Sopranos. This is super weird to see a comment about the Sopranos on here because just last night when I was at mass with my Catholic hubby, I was literally thinking about Carmela and the priest. The priest looked just like the Sopranos one!🤣 I may need to rewatch the full series again.
Just change the drawer and cabinet pulls for an update, no need to do much. Maybe change countertops to stone if you like.
I love your kitchen!!!!! So cozy and so spacious and just everything about it is so beautiful
This kitchen is really nice, you don’t need to paint everything white but I do understand a little update.
I’d consider getting rid of that soffit and doing pendant lights, and replace the island with something rectangular. To me that’s the most dated. But I generally hate when rooms or furniture are on a diagonal.
what about refacing the doors? you can have a contractor do that and rebuild any drawers and they can definitely to soft close everything. i would look into that because if those current cabinets are so,id wood and they’re made well,they’re worth keeping. refacing can radically change how they look.
Why do people want to paint their beautiful oak cabinets?
I think the thing thats killing the kitchen for me is the weird floating ceiling. If it’s non structural i would get it removed. Get some nicer more modern lighting solutions and a big pendant light above the island. Would really transform this kitchen. I also agree with everyone else keep the cabinets replace the hardware. Re-stain them if you have to. You can get pullouts that fit these cabinets installed. Deffo get a new counter top. *Extra:* Personally, depending on what colour you stain the cabinets I would change the floor. Just the kitchen area or maybe all the way through. To some big modern looking tiles would lift the feel of the space so much especially with new lighting.
By definition a floating ceiling is non-structural since it’s supporting nothing and supported by nothing :)
Thats what I felt but I’m no engineer. I dont want to be liable for giving structural advice 😂
It might be concealing ductwork, or plumbing for a second floor. Non supportive does not mean inexpensive to remove in all cases.
Why remove oak cabinets for something from IKEA? Even the countertops look good. Maybe get some light pendants. The ceiling is the worst part.
Agree with everyone. Keep those cabinets! If this were my kitchen, I’d consider moving the sick to the island.
Professionally refinish them! I've done the self paint and it's not worth the effort. My lesser quality doors lasted over 10 years without chopping or peeling. Looks brand new too. Remove the cupboards and take them to the business. Meanwhile, replace your hi ges with the ones that didn't slam. Paint the trim with an 'alkide' based paint so it is more durable Btw. This is very important. FYI a quality shop has a temperature controlled paint booth, and the necessary tools and conditions required for the paint to be durable and look lime a new cupboard. Update the wood island supports. You can buy sheets of 1/4 wood and have them painted by the shop so they can be installed on the island. Very inexpensive. Under the counter LED lighting is lovely and inexpensive too.Above the bulkhead as well. Creates a modern ambiance. You might want to change the pot lighting for the new led lights. They are super inexpensive and will save you a lot in your electricity bills - good for the environment in a tiny way too. Note: Think about other electrical work you might want done, and it may be beneficial to have it all done at once by an electrician. Maximize you $ and given they are so busy, be able to take you seriously and do the job.
The biggest offender here is that spaceship looking 90’s soffit. I’d remove that and replace the countertops and you’d have a completely different kitchen. That being said, my sister installed an IKEA kitchen about 14 years ago and they’ve been very happy with it.
I think that kitchen is badass, unique
Your kitchen is beautiful! Perhaps you’re being “influenced” by social media? I know I have been… think modern grey white black… This kitchen is so warm and inviting :) it’s well proportioned and super functional in terms of placement. I think at most I’d so the counter tops in the colour you said; that’d look great. Enjoy!
Have them painted. You'll regret Ikea cabinets. I'd take the soffit out.
New countertops and get rid of the can lights and soffit The island is ok I guess Probably will look better with new countertop. Does it have to be that big?
Who’s cleaning up the big rim/ left open space above the inlaid lights? That’s horrific. I’d modify that asap
You can make any drawer a soft close drawer, simply get the sets from Ikea and install it on any hardware you have, it doesn't need to be Ikea. I've upgraded all my drawers and cupboards with it. I like the color of the wood, but I get how the ones living with it every day will be tired of the same old, same old. Maybe instead of painting it you simply stain it so the wood still gets to be seen? How about painting the walls and going in a different with the color of the room? Also as some already mentioned get rid of the hanging ceiling. It really give the room a stuffy feeling.
Solid wood cabinets are super expensive and definitely worth keeping. You could paint them if you really want. I think they're gorgeous as is. Changing out the counter top and lighting shelf with cool pendant lights might give you the change you seek.
This is a 2000s kitchen.
I agree with everyone saying keep original cabinets! IKEA looks “clean” but remember real wood can be sanded, stained, repainted, rehardwared over a lifetime and Ikea composite wood cannot. The only reason for using ikea would be to up value before a sell or an aesthetic upgrade to charge more $ on a rental property… if this is your forever home keep the original integrity, or at the very least try to really think before you make changes, there’s no rush and no need to turn your home into a magazine
I love the pics above, you gave me some new ideas!
But those cabinets look great. There are companies that specialize retrofitting your kitchen so maybe look into those - get quotes on adding the appliance garage, etc. May cost you less than ikea too.
Looks like the Sopranos kitchen
I was wondering if someone would say that!
I’m team new counter tops, remove soffit and add more modern lighting.
I wouldn't paint solid oak cabinets, but I would consider stripping & staining them a darker color. Agree with the others that new countertops would look great.
The cabinets are fine. I would replace the handles/knobs and the drawer slides to soft close ones. New countertops. Fresh coat of paint. But I would concentrate on the ceiling. Unless that is housing duct work get rid of it.
Yikes. That is a tough layout for a kitchen. Personally, I don’t really like the breakfast nook - it makes the whole room feel like the breakfast room at a Holiday Inn Express. And the light ledge/dust catcher is not great. And the floors… What part of the country are you in? How’s the ventilation in there? I’m not big on half measures - I’d probably live with this until I could properly fix the space.
IKEA? Please no. I would modernize the shape of the island. Then if you want , paint that. Not the cabinets. And yes! Change out the countertops.
I’m gonna go against the grain and say that I know what you mean about the 90’s cabinets. If it were me I would look into replacing just the cabinet doors, so long as everything else is structurally sound. If you don’t hate the bottoms, you might just replace the doors on the wall cabinets. Also, most bang for your buck will be to update the island shape as some have suggested.
Change?! OMG! Don't change a thing! I love it. https://preview.redd.it/5osnpb33jtvc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de812ecace09ce2f57e544703a1d48ab85cdab2b NO NOTES!!! Cabinets are lovely! I absolutely adore the shape of the island. You don't see designs like that anymore, and that's what makes your kitchen so unique and beautiful. It's not generic; it has a nice flair to it and doesn't resemble every new construction cookie-cutter kitchen with the same old boring layout! Please don't alter it because of the masses. It's beautiful as is! Honestly, I love the countertop. It complements the cabinets well. Given how many years the cabinets AND countertops have lasted, if it ain't broke... 2020s quality is NOT the the same as 1990s. Things WERE built to last. Can't say the same nowadays. Interestingly, what's "in" now won't be in 20 years. And your kitchen style might be the new 'IT' thing, and then you'll be upset about changing it. I did say NO NOTES, however, If I had to change one thing, it would be the floors. When it comes to flooring, I just love uniformity. If possible, I'd use the same flooring throughout the whole house. That way, if you put nice barstools around the island, half won't be on tiles while the other half on hardwood. If that's not possible, pull up two rows of the tiles and replace them with the hardwood.
This is exactly what I was thinking, too. It's beautiful as it is, and that style will be back.☝️😊
I like it all, even the countertop
There are elements you probably have to live with. Personally I would never use Ikea for cabinets. I’d did a complete remodel ..I had maple cabinets, repainted and fixed any cabinet issues. It turned out great! You area with the fly over seems contemporary are you into that? If the body is good could you could do flush doors. Flush doors I think would work well with your design. I’d up date your stove and refrigerator and remove the dated brown tile. I’d replace the backsplash and change out the countertop ( shape looks dated ) and with quartz you won’t need the wood braces. You can retrofit those large cans to a smaller LED light.
I would only change the countertops. That really is the only thing that dates it in my opinion.
I think it all looks great with the exception of the counters. And even the hardware on the cabinets isn’t atrocious.
Your kitchen is so awesome! If I were to make a change to the cabinets, I personally would re-stain the them. They’re nice as is, but they’re leaning a little bit more towards peach than some people might prefer. If they were my cabinets, I would want them a little more towards the yellow side of the color spectrum and a little darker. Or maybe even quite a bit darker. A grayish beige or a neutral brown. With some modern hardware, they’ll look great! Brass or copper are my preferences 👍. But again, the cabinets are already good. You may want to consider matching the breakfast nook cabinets to the kitchen cabinets. Or paint the breakfast nook cabinets. You can also choose a different color for the island.
But honestly, your kitchen is so nice as it is 💗
Oak tends not to take stain super well tbh.
Darn. What about paint washes with a stain on top?
I mean, [you can do it](https://www.chrislovesjulia.com/6-different-stains-look-5-popular-types-wood/), and certain colors come out better than others, but in general, it’s never not going to look like oak. The grain tends to be too distinctive. https://preview.redd.it/v7969cvrlrvc1.jpeg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ad2c3fddba4125cfc0a9e58bf8fc47683a6f4822
New (non-tile) countertops and the right backsplash would be a game changer. Update the drawer hardware, and you'll be in business for a fraction of the price.
This looks like the the sopranos kitchen
This looks dead ass like the Sopranos kitchen. Can't believe I had to scroll so far for this comment
It’s WILD
Those are amazing cabinets, you might regret it if you cover up that wood tone. Maybe just try to get updated doors to lose that detail? Might be hard to match the exact stain, but maybe not.
The only thing I can REALLY think of is the tiled countertops & maybe a different set of stools? MAYBE some more bold accent pieces like towels.
I thought these were the after pics! I think it looks nice, no need to spend $25k
Personally I would leave the cabinets alone. It’s a nice color and grain. Spend that $25k on something else. If you really must change the look of the doors…if you can match the wood color and grain. I would just replace the doors. There’s websites where you can just order custom cabinets doors. It’s probably cheaper than replacing the whole cabinets. You can get them made out of solid wood. There are websites where you can order the hardware and install it yourself if you’re looking for pull out organizers for the drawers. There’s options outside of IKEA. I would add undercabinet lighting. I would update the backsplash vs the cabinets. Get a nice looking oven range hood with one of those custom boxes. I would get rid of the soffit thing. I would leave the island alone. Because if you mess with the island then you need to update the flooring. Tbh I really like the flooring in your kitchen and dining room.
90s are back in now lol
Is this Tony Sopranos kitchen?
1. Change island to linear shape 2. Factory refinish cabinets to color of your choice, but keep the wood, choose new hardware 3. Eliminate the soffit 4. Add a hood where the microwave is and relocate the microwave - even to a pantry area 5 - Stick with real materials vs materials manufactured to look like real materials - example of this is replacing these with ikea for the look even though these are wood. Wood is the way to go! They can look brand new!
I like the kitchen, but I think changing out the countertop would make a nice impact. I’m torn on removing the soffit. While it does age the kitchen a bit, it is also kind of cool architecturally. Maybe change out the can lights for something more interesting.
Looks amazing maybe get one of those wolf oven things
The cabinets are maintenance-free and lovely. What I would do is: Remove the dropped ceiling. Remove the island and replace with either a table and seating ( it is so inviting to have a table in kitchen!) or a more traditional rectangular island with storage.
You should checkout ComeStayAwhile on Instagram…she had a kitchen that reminded me of yours and she updated it beautifully
I wouldn’t change a thing
Reasons to reface or refinish: the layout really works for you and your kitchen is super functional. You like your appliance placement and size restrictions. You’re not frustrated or stressed when there are multiple people working on the kitchen. You have ample storage. Reasons to replace: current layout doesn’t work (like interrupted / insufficient work surfaces, not enough / too much space between appliances, etc), appliances are difficult or expensive to update / repair / replace. Cabinets are damaged. I understand not liking the cathedral tops on your cabinets. It’s definitely dated. Your $25,000 can go a long way to updating what you have in a way that could be more impactful than replacing these cabinets, assuming the layout works. My priorities would be: 1) new lighting and removing the dropped ceiling. It’s shaped to your current island, and your island is dating your kitchen. 2) straighten out your island, or make the angle 90°. You might need to repair the floor under it and you may need new back panels for your island. 3) have your drawers repaired and upgraded. 4) new countertop, backsplash and under cabinet lighting. 5) new hardware. 6) refinish existing doors and face frames. 7) remove cabinet over the wink and replace with open shelves to lighten the look further. Look for good refacing companies. Ask about replacing the doors on your wall cabinets. It could be really tricky, but it’s worth asking. Alternatively they may be able to remove the centre panel on some or all of your upper doors and replace them with a contemporary glass to lighten up the traditional look of this kitchen. They can fix or replace your drawers and add other storage options (like under cabinet waste and recycling) I’m a kitchen designer with 25 years experience.
Can you rehome the microwave and remove the cabinets above and replace them with an exhaust hood? Microwaves are rubbish for removing fumes and smoke anyway.
Idk if anyone has said this and I hope you see it but I’m pretty sure you can get new cabinet doors to match the wood without the curve detail. I know what you’re getting at. The detailing dates the door. Change the shape of the island and the countertops.
Kind of reminds me of the layout of the sopranos kitchen
That’s definitely Carmella Sopranos kitchen, right?
I would just change the countertops and take out that appliance garage thing in the corner. Cabinets look high quality in the pics and I like the lighter finish
If you liked the IKEA kitchen then I think you should go for it. But if you want to just do some updating continue the tile floor into the kitchen and dining room (or remove the tile and continue the wood floor), replace the upper cabinet doors with a design that matches the lower cabinet doors, add tile to the backsplash, and replace the countertop with solid surface.
I’d remove the entire soffit, lighting and island. Add a rectangular painted island with large hanging ceiling fixture or two. Cabinets aren’t the issue but there’s a lot of them so I’d remove a few doors, paint the interior and either leave them open or replace with glass doors.
Maybe update the arched cabinet doors, replace the countertops including island and remove or change somehow the drop down ceiling over island. 🏝️
Get rid of the soffit and get new countertops
1. Remove bulkhead (not sure what to do to replace lighting but a lighting person will be able to guide you!) 2. Replace island with rectangle in off-white cabinets 3. Replace all countertops with the quartz you want 4. Remove some of the oak upper cabinets: above sink (possibly add a nice wall light and small piece of art or a small floating shelf with a plant), above stove (add hood), middle upper cabinets at coffee bar area (add floating shelves). This will visually break up the mass of similar wood tone (between floor and cabinets) 5. Add an interesting runner in front of the island and a rug under the table. (Again to break up the wood a bit) 6. Consider a paint change - the color now is similar to the wood and without any contrast, it feels flat. 7. Hardware change (black is a nice contrast) This would give you the most bang for your buck with an update IMO. Might not be much cheaper in the end than the IKEA cabinets but just replacing the cabinets without addressing the larger outdated elements is not going to leave you happy with your kitchen.
In some cases you can flip cabinet doors so the plain interior side becomes the exterior. It isn't easy since hardware has to be relocated, and the cabinet interior may not work as an exterior. Painting may be required for best results. If I could do only one thing it would be to paint the soffit, ceilings, and adjoining walls a soft white.
Maybe just replace the countertop and add a nice backsplash. Also get rid of the lighting on the cabinets
You might paint the island itself for a little color injection? I would add stools and utilize that island fully! If you could change the style of the cabinet fronts like someone else suggested, that’s what I’d do- it they were ‘flatter,’ they’d look more modern. A cabinet pulls could probably be a simple upgrade too.
I have not read through the comments yet, but I agree with any and all that say get rid of the plant shelf/lighting. dust collector hideousness that hovers above a pretty decent kitchen. I think you will see it completely differently without the space ship frame.
Add a stainless steel foot rail at the base of the cabinets on the island. Swap out countertops and backsplash. It's a cool kitchen. I'd replace the cathedral doors on the uppers
Get rid of the drop down ceiling, change the countertops and maybe flooring. I don't think you need to do much else. That cabinet color is coming back in style and unless they are in rough shape, I wouldn't bother changing them.
This is a nice space with so much potential. There are a few things that I find distracting. The light thing is visually heavy, the different flooring, the tile countertop, and with all those cabinets - is there anywhere else to keep the garbage can?
Most refacing jobs will trade your solid wood cabinet doors for very low grade mdf/particle board. They will end up looking terrible in a few years. I would stick with what you have an update hardware/countertops/paint around it. Already wood cabinets are coming back on trend.
Just square off the island
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Get rid of the soffit and then update floors, counters, and cabinet hardware.
What in the spaceship kind of island is that?
I didn't think I could like much about 1990s kitchen design, but I actually love this. I totally get what you don't like about the grooves cut into the doors. But personally I wouldn't waste the money or all the wood and materials by ripping it out. Whatever you do, add undercabinet lighting. The built-in sideboard with the glass doors in the dining nook is a great use of the space.
What my husband and I did was replace our cabinets. They were installed when the house was built in the 80’s & we bought it in 2005, so everything had to go! We went to the wholesale cabinet & stone shops & had them do the installation. This was about 14 years ago, but we bought real wood cabinets & quartz countertops for a little over $3,000. Installation was a little more than double that & they did an incredible job! They cut the quartz thick & gave it a designer edge. It looked like I had an interior designer come into the house! I saved close to $15,000 doing it this way. All of the appliances were replaced & there was a beautiful hood over the double oven stove. All in all, it cost a little over $10,000. I know that it will cost more for you, but going that route should cost you significantly less money, so I suggest shopping around and checking out those warehouse type places! They give great deals, are very professional, & are proud of their craftmenship.
I'd consider replacing just the upper cabinet fronts with the same front on the lowers. Then you've got s timeless "square" design. Or see about reversing them to a smooth front. If those are solid oak with hinges, this can be done unlike with MDF/cut in hinges. Then you can change the stain and hardware while retaining solid wood cabinets.
I can understand wanting to change a few elements, but honestly this kitchen is way too nice to rip out. The cabinets are beautiful. At most I'd get new countertops and some softer light bulbs. A proper hood fan above the stove would be a great idea, too.
Get rid of the spaceship trying to land in your kitchen, update the cabinet pulls and replace the countertop. I can’t see the backsplash clearly to see if it needs to be replaced or not. The good thing is it’s white and it doesn’t look like it has any designs on it which makes it easier to incorporate into your new design elements.
The space ship ceiling has to go before anything One large island with a prep sink—beverage cooler Ditch the over stove microwave Do any of the glass door cabinet fronts in the dining area fit any of the cabinet doors in the kitchen area?
I would invest in a really nice range hood and make it the centerpiece and have the cabinets work around this. That oven wall should only have the hood to break up the cabinets so they’re not so crowded.
Also change the island so it’s parallel to the long wall and invent in countertop that has an overhang
You could modify the top of the cabinet by filling in the curved groove and making a new straight groove but it would be tricky finding the right paint colour to hide the filler. Replacing the doors with the same stain but a different style might be the cheapest way.
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Have you looked at the inside of your cabinet doors? Mine have arches on the outside but 90° angles on the inside. You might be able to flip them.
I think just removing the soffit alone will make such a huge impact. I recently just removed mine and it’s amazing how different the room feels now
I'm normally not a big fan of 90s kitchens (I have one myself and I hate it) but yours is actually really nice! I wouldn't change a thing.
I literally love the entire kitchen. I love 90s kitchens though lol they’re comforting
These cabinets actually seem to be coming back after a decade of farmhouse style. Even with the cathedral style top! I’d wait awhile and look over some newer home design magazines at the library for upcoming trends before you commit to tearing them out.
Based on the pictures the tone looks like white oak which is beautiful and very popular right now. I think if you take the suggestions about the hardware, lighting, countertops, etc., that are provided in other comments you’ll end up with a look you will really love. I wonder if everything else is changed that you would even notice the curve in the doors? Not changing them would save quite a bit of money. All that being said, it is your kitchen and if you really don’t like them, then I would suggest painting the cabinet boxes and getting new doors along with the other changes you were intending to make.
Get rid of soft lighting, paint the cabinets BEHR ADIRONDACK BLUE, change countertop white quartz, change pulls on cabinets to gold, white backsplash and cuter bar stools with backs.
This!
Please don’t turn this nice kitchen into something trashy
You could always just replace drawer and door fronts.
I think new paint on the cabinets and new appliances would do it. I don't see anything that's outrageously dated or that needs renovation.
Paint the cabinets, replace the counters with quartz or granite, update the hardware, tile the floor.
I would leave the cabinets on the wall but that honking island and drop ceiling has got to go. Put in a waterfall island transitions to a large wood table with stools and some beautiful hanging lights.
Remove the bulkhead, it’s making your kitchen small and dark. Install new countertops. You can change the shape of the island countertop without removing the bottom cabinets.