After we received this Layout Dilemma out of Houzz user Christina (such as this snapshot from move-in day) I understood why she was looking for help. Since it is for most homeowners, a complete remodel is not in the cards at the moment. And she has been living with this particular kitchen (minus the shifting boxes, naturally) for five years from fear of spending money on small fixes that she might not enjoy.

Christina is ill of the wallpaper border, mauve blinds and pink countertop. She’d love a black kitchen using a contemporary, vintage-eclectic design. However, “I am debating about where I begin,” she writes. “What do I spend in first, great countertops (black)?? ANY info is appreciated. My Bad home needs help! ”

Okay, Christine, it’s time to plunge headfirst into this facelift. There are a lot of ways to get huge bang for your buck with no complete kitchen remodel, especially if you’re available to new countertops. Continue reading for 8 quick fixes you’ll be able to begin on now.

See Christine’s Unique question

No. 1. The largest liabilities within this kitchen are things that may be fixed good old DIY design: Get rid of that wallpaper border and pink window treatments that match the countertops.

No. 2. You have classic white kitchen cabinets, and that is a plus. Even if they’re not your preferred style (increased panel vs. Shaker) or material (I am imagining thermafoil instead of wood). Who cares? They are white! I can guess there are lot of folks out there now bemoaning their ’70s honey oak cabinets as we speak.

No. 3. Now, alter that countertop. Go for a timeless honed black granite as opposed to a polished granite.

No. 4. And while you’re at it, then paint the walls. Offset the sharp white cabinets with a deep neutral such as a taupe like this, or move for a light gray/blue. Whatever you do, don’t stick with walls: It may appear drab once you’re looking for a shift.

International Marble & Granite

Absolute Black Honed

Black and white never goes out of fashion. If you want a classic black- and-white kitchen, then go ahead and replace those countertops!

DuPont

Medea Corian

If granite is not in the cards budget-wise, consider an alternative like this terrific charcoal grey color called Medea out of Corian.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

No. 6 and 5. Change out that light fixture for something more vintage and architecturally interesting. And include a cute vintage chair to that bare looking dining room place in your kitchen. Accessories like lighting and chairs may add as much style. Do not underestimate the ability of a single well-chosen accessory.

Pottery Barn

Tolix Café Chair – $199

These classic vintage Tolix chairs are the perfect complement to your black-and-white kitchen. If you’re terrified of it going out of fashion, don’t be. The French-bistro look has existed for a very long time and doesn’t appear to be going from favor anytime soon.

Schoolhouse Electric

Wilamette 6 Pendant Light – $129

Schoolhouse pendants are a perfect accent. Go for a bronze finish to add drama instead of a silver finish like chrome or polished nickel.

Restoration Hardware

Harmon Pendant | Restoration Hardware – $349

If you want a somewhat different appearance, there are lots of pendants on the market, and each will slightly modify the appearance of your kitchen. From schoolhouse vintage, to industrial contemporary …

Restoration Hardware

Vintage Barn Pendant – $199

… to farmhouse chic.

Paul Moon Design

This is another fabulous black and white kitchen to encourage you!

No. 7. Change out the hardware for a fresher appearance.

Gracious Home

Baldwin Bronze Oval Knob – $13

Vintage and classic oil rubbed bronze knobs.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Hard Candy Knob – $8

Or move a bit more vintage glam with crystal.

Rebekah Zaveloff | KitchenLab

Pietre Knob, Flower  – $12

Or have some fun with this black and white beauties from Anthropologie.

Kristin Petro Interiors, Inc..

No. 8. Insert a subway tile backsplash. This proposal requires somewhat more commitment:Hire someone to put in a classic white subway tile backsplash. White subway tile is the cheapest thrill on the market. It may be ridiculously inexpensive, and installing tile is really easy. I’ve done it myself so I am telling the truth here (although my husband did do the cutting of the couple tiles that had it). Go for white subway tile with white grout, or …

… go for charcoal grout to find that whole black-and-white palette.

The Home Depot

Merola Metro Chelsea Subway White – $7.44

Subway tile may come in a couple of distinct sizes, but the timeless dimension is 3×6. If you would like to mix this up a little go for a 2×6 for a appearance that is different. I trust you find these suggestions helpful and that individuals see that your “After” pictures on Houzz soon!

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More: 15 Quick Kitchen Fixes

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