In my last post I was so excited about the work I’ve been doing in our bedrooms, but this week things have really kicked up a notch. I’ve got the builders in! After months of planning and waiting for building warrant approval, there’s finally a skip in the drive and dust everywhere. I’m loving it! I’m such a weirdo, I know.
Admittedly, it’s not a huge job. The dividing wall in our existing extension is coming down and french doors are being fitted leading to the garden. The wall is non-load-bearing, which normally would see me reaching for the sledgehammer and taking it down myself (see obligatory pic).
However, in this case the structural engineer has specified a “wind post” which is a first for me. Has anyone else encountered these? Apparently it’s a vertical piece of steel used to brace the exterior wall to increase stability and protect against hurricane-strength winds. According to the builder these have appeared as a requirement in the last year or so and are completely pointless! Hey ho, got to keep the planners happy.
The next step will be to fit the kitchen, which has already been delivered and I can’t wait to get started. I’ll be doing most of the work myself, then bringing in a joiner to do bits like the worktops which really benefit from a professional finish.
So, full speed ahead! However, there is one remaining question which has been occupying my thoughts this week. How do I add character to a low-spec diy-store kitchen? In my last project we turned a small, dingy kitchen into a bright open-plan kitchen diner with cream shaker-style units (pictured above). However, it lacked some of the character that makes a house feel like a home. This time round I want to add more warmth and a bit of individuality, while still keeping an eye on the ultimate goal to sell the house in the next twelve months.
First. I returned to the colour palette I created when I was planning the overall look for the house. This is something I always like to do when I’m starting a project. It helps me to focus my ideas and provides a reference point if I’m struggling to bring my ideas to life.
Next, I turned to another of my favourite sources of inspiration – Instagram. One of my favourite accounts is At Lucy’s House. Her Scandi-style home, in a palette of whites and greys, is given real warmth and character by use of natural materials and playful, cosy textiles. Black accents add a contemporary twist.
Melanie Jade Designs has written a blog post detailing her multiple attempts to add character to a rather ubiquitous shaker-style kitchen, experimenting with colour and wallpaper. It’s inspiring to see how her final choice of Farrow & Ball Hague Blue has added so much character to the underlying simple (and widely appealing) design elements, such as white units, an oak floor and a spacious layout.
When it comes to adding character The Pink House is hard to beat. Her kitchen has been completely transformed by the addition of colourful tiles and patterned wallpaper. At first I didn’t even realise the units hadn’t changed! I love the way it feels like a complete and beautifully styled room and not just a kitchen.
For my own new kitchen diner this image from Fiona Duke Interiors is one I keep returning to. A pretty bland white box has been given bags of character with some subtly patterned wallpaper, a geometric rug and colourful pops of yellow and navy. So simple yet so effective.
Simone Isaksen, featured by Design Sponge, has created a similar effect with faux-brick wallpaper and upcycled wooden furniture. Not only does it look great but is achievable on a tight budget. 👏
Also beginning with white walls and wooden flooring, Renovating Ethelwolf has created a beautifully individual dining space. An industrial-style table and chairs are combined with more opulent touches, such as the teal wall, Vogue cover prints and gold cushion.
So, what have I learned? First, that neutral walls, wooden floors and white or grey units provide the starting point for most new kitchens. Second, you don’t have to stop there. Don’t be afraid to add colour or pattern to create a kitchen that’s truly yours. Use cushions, rugs and accessories to create that cosy vibe (and then take them with you when you move!)
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I’ve created a mood board to keep me on track. I’m planning pale grey shaker-style units and oak-effect laminate flooring, with white faux-brick wallpaper in the dining area. I’ve also been keeping my eyes peeled for character-adding textiles and accessories in the January sales. I can’t wait to get started and will write a full blog post when the project is finished. Wish me luck!
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