DIY Kitchen Makeover

DIY kitchen ideas and inspiration from the projects and sources used to makeover 1980s orange oak cabinets in a New England Colonial.


When we moved in, our kitchen was a little dreary and in need of some updating. Since it was such a dark room, I knew that I wanted to paint the cabinets white. I made sure to research and test the best methods for achieving a long-lasting finish. The final result surpassed even my greatest expectations! Our DIY kitchen was featured in Elle Decor, House Beautiful, and Better Homes & Gardens (August 2016 issue).

phase one kitchen projects

Click the photos below to explore our phase one kitchen project by project.

In 2019 we embarked on a full kitchen remodel. You can see our new kitchenย here!

DIY Kitchen source list

Some of the links below are affiliate links. This adds no extra expense to you but means I may make a small commission if you purchase. Please see our disclosure here for more information.

Wall Color โ€”ย Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
Cabinet Color โ€” Insl-x Cabinet Coat White (untinted), Oak Cabinet Painting Tutorial
Trim Paint Color โ€” Benjamin Moore Simply White in Eggshell
Flooring โ€”ย Read my dark hardwood floors post here,ย Similar Look Here
Window Shades โ€” No longer available, alternativeย here
Kitchen Island โ€” Tutorial Here, Similar Here
Backsplash Subway Tile โ€” here
Lantern Mosaic Range Accent Tile โ€” here
Appliances โ€” Electrolux, models no longer sold
Farmhouse Sink โ€” Ikea Domsjo, discontinued (similar here)
Drawer Pulls โ€” similar here, satin nickel
Knobs โ€” similar here, satin nickel
Faucet โ€” similar here