Not all projects that I am involved with are huge in scope. Remember the Cambridge Workman's Cottage? You can read all about it here. It is a wonderful home that my dear friend, Leonard, renovated. Years before when budgets were tight a simple renovation was done to the kitchen. 
Here is the before. Cabinets were painted and new stainless appliances were purchased but the kitchen was largely as he had acquired it. In truth I really did not think the kitchen was as awful as Leonard did. Yes, the red counters were bad and I agreed that counter space was limited. Also, the stove seemed strangely out of place with about 24 inches of unused wall to the right. But Leonard's choice of cabinet color was really great. I especially loved how he refused to put in any upper cabinets. It kept the space wonderful and airy.
Here is the after - At first glance not terribly dramatic until you really take a closer look at all the details. First notice the gorgeous apron front soapstone sink and counters. A wonderful addition to a house seeped in history. We also moved the stove under the window and extended the counter to the doorway, this added significant workable counter space. Now he has two longer spaces of counters which definitely allows for more prep area. Drawers were chosen over cabinets for extra storage of pots and pans. The corner cabinet was outfitted with high quality pull outs to maximize the usable interiors. New KWC faucet and Cliffside cabinet hardware latches and pulls added the wonderful accent and ties in the stainless appliances wonderfully.'
Not terribly expensive to do, but a huge impact in terms of workability! And if you take a much closer look, I think you will agree it is an excellent improvement - a kitchen worthy of a house with so much charm and history!
(all photos Willow Decor and not to be used with out permission)
