Transforming Small Kitchens: 11 Before and After Inspirations
Welcome to the world of small kitchen remodels! In this article, we will explore 11 impressive transformations that showcase how a little creativity and a touch of DIY spirit can turn even the tiniest kitchens into stunning, magazine-worthy spaces. Whether it’s a complete overhaul or simple updates, these before and after photos will surely inspire you to see the potential of your own kitchen space.
Before: Dark and Outdated – Joanna’s Tiny Bungalow
Joanna Hawley, the founder of lifestyle blog jojotastic, once described her original kitchen as “dark, dingy, and very, very sad.” But with a tuxedo-inspired makeover featuring black shaker cabinets, Georgia Marble countertops, and brass accents, Joanna’s kitchen now shines bright and modern. The addition of H-shaped geometric tiles in blue pays homage to her late grandfather, Harvey, adding a personal touch to the space.
After: Bright and Modern – Embracing Change
Joanna’s kitchen transformation is a testament to the power of paint and design. By embracing change and thinking outside the box, she was able to completely revamp her small kitchen into a space that is both stylish and functional.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace the power of paint to transform cabinets
- Add personal touches to make the space your own
Before: Wood on Wood – Christina’s Tiny Campers
Christina Dennis, from The DIY Mommy, knows the struggles of small kitchen spaces all too well. With not one, but two tiny campers to renovate for her family, she used BEHR paint and functional details to create a pastel dream kitchen. The vintage-inspired mint green lower cabinets and charming shelf under the sink add character to the space.
After: Pastel Dream – Functional and Cheery
Christina’s kitchen makeover is a lesson in utilizing color and design to create a cheerful and functional space. The addition of mint green cabinets and thoughtful storage solutions proves that even the smallest kitchens can be transformed into a dreamy oasis.
Key Takeaways:
- Use pastel colors to create a cheerful ambiance
- Incorporate vintage-inspired elements for charm
Before: Builder-Grade Bland – Beth’s Renovation Project
Beth Light of 1111 Light Lane took on the challenge of transforming her parents’ small kitchen from a builder-grade bland space to a brilliant and bold oasis. With Semihandmade cabinetry, open shelving, and subway tiles, the kitchen now boasts a fresh and cohesive look.
After: Brilliant and Bold – Adding Personality
Beth’s kitchen remodel is a masterclass in adding personality to a space. By choosing tasteful touches and thoughtful design elements, she was able to breathe new life into an uninspired kitchen, creating a space that is as functional as it is stylish.
Key Takeaways:
- Opt for open shelving to showcase personal items
- Choose cohesive design elements for a polished look
Before: ’90s Oak Takeover – Jess’s Quick Makeover
Jess McGurn of Bright Green Door gave herself just one weekend to transform a friend’s small kitchen from drab to fab. By spray-painting oak cabinets, adding faux shiplap, and updating the lighting, Jess created a simple and stunning space in just three days.
After: Simple and Stunning Swaps – Quick and Effective
Jess’s kitchen makeover proves that a simple and quick update can make a big impact. By focusing on key elements like cabinet paint and backsplash, she was able to completely change the look and feel of the space in a short amount of time.
Key Takeaways:
- Choose high-impact updates for quick transformations
- Don’t underestimate the power of lighting in a space
Before: Brick and Brown – Erica’s Budget Remodel
Erica Van Slyke of Designing Vibes took on the challenge of remodeling her small kitchen on a budget, and the results are nothing short of farmhouse fresh. By painting the cabinets and installing DIY flooring, she was able to achieve a professional-looking space at a fraction of the cost.
After: Farmhouse Fresh – Budget-Friendly Elegance
Erica’s budget remodel is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to break the bank to create a beautiful kitchen. By carefully choosing where to splurge and where to save, she was able to achieve a fresh and elegant look that rivals more expensive renovations.
Key Takeaways:
- Prioritize where to spend your budget for maximum impact
- Consider DIY options to save money on labor costs
Before: Fixer Upper – Lauren and Austin’s Project
Lauren and Austin Day of the day shift blog took on a small fixer-upper kitchen in their home, resulting in a modern charm that is both stylish and functional. By making tweaks like taller cabinets and two-tone colors, they were able to maximize the space and create a room that feels open and inviting.
After: Modern Charm – Functional and Stylish
The Days’ kitchen makeover showcases how subtle changes can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of a space. By focusing on details like cabinet height and color choices, they were able to create a room that is both modern and charming.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider cabinet height to maximize storage space
- Experiment with color choices for added dimension
Before: Wasted Space – Aimee’s Storage Woes
Aimee Page, aka The Crazy Craft Lady, struggled with a lack of storage in her small kitchen. By creating DIY raised cabinets and adding shiplap, she was able to maximize space and bring new life to the area for a minimal cost.
After: Raised Uppers – Maximizing Storage
Aimee’s storage-focused makeover is a great example of how a little creativity can go a long way in a small space. By thinking outside the box and utilizing vertical space, she was able to create a functional and stylish kitchen without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways:
- Utilize vertical space for added storage
- Consider DIY options for cost-effective solutions
Before: ’80s Chic – Cori’s Colorful Refresh
Cori George of Hey, Let’s Make Stuff transformed her dated kitchen into a warm and inviting space with a colorful refresh. By refinishing cabinets, swapping out countertops, and adding new lighting, she was able to create a look that reflects her bright and fun style.
After: Warm and Inviting – Personalized Touches
Cori’s colorful refresh is a great reminder that a little paint and creativity can go a long way in transforming a space. By focusing on elements like lighting and backsplash, she was able to create a kitchen that is both warm and inviting.
Key Takeaways:
- Choose elements that reflect your personal style
- Don’t be afraid to add bold colors for a pop of personality
Before: Closed Off – Sara’s Open Concept
Sara Davis of Sincerely, Sara D. transformed her closed-off kitchen into an open concept space by tearing down a wall and updating paint and fixtures. By reimagining the layout and maximizing space, she was able to create a modern and functional kitchen that is perfect for entertaining.
After: Open Concept – Spacious and Modern
Sara’s open concept makeover showcases the power of reimagining a space to create a more functional and inviting environment. By focusing on details like paint, pulls, and layout, she was able to create a kitchen that is perfect for both cooking and entertaining.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider removing walls to open up a space
- Choose fixtures and finishes that reflect a modern aesthetic
Before: Half Wall and Honey Oak – Lisa’s Smart Renovation
Lisa Mabey of Mabey She Made It transformed her small kitchen by removing a half wall and maximizing floor and cabinet space. By focusing on smart design choices like shaker cabinets and light finishes, she was able to create a kitchen that feels spacious and airy.
After: Small No More – Maximizing Space
Lisa’s smart renovation is a great example of how thoughtful design choices can make a small kitchen feel larger and more functional. By focusing on maximizing space and creating a cohesive look, she was able to create a kitchen that is both stylish and practical.
Key Takeaways:
- Remove barriers like half walls to create a more open feel
- Opt for light finishes to maximize natural light
Before: Rental Kitchen Woes – Elizabeth’s Personal Touches
Elizabeth Van Lierdo of The College Housewife didn’t let the fact that her kitchen was a rental stop her from making it her own. By adding shelving, a marble-topped accent table, and plenty of greenery, she was able to create a space that is both personal and inviting.
After: Natural Light and Lots of Green – Adding Personal Flair
Elizabeth’s rental kitchen makeover is a great example of how adding personal touches can completely transform a space. By focusing on elements like shelving and greenery, she was able to create a kitchen that feels like home.
Key Takeaways:
- Add personal touches to make a rental space feel like your own
- Incorporate greenery for a fresh and inviting feel
In conclusion, these 11 before and after small kitchen remodels showcase the transformative power of creativity, design, and a little DIY spirit. Whether you’re looking to completely overhaul your kitchen or just make small updates, these inspirations prove that even the tiniest spaces can be turned into stunning, magazine-worthy rooms. So, go ahead, embrace the potential of your kitchen and let your imagination run wild!
