Sandra McCarthy Studio

View Original

My Low-Budget Kitchen Renovation: A Labor of Love and Nostalgia

There’s something so special about creating a space that truly feels like home, and my kitchen has always been the heart of my house. After a year of dreaming, I finally decided to renovate it again, yes! Again, and all on a small budget—and let me tell you, it turned out amazing! But what makes it even more special is that this kitchen now reminds me of my grandma, who taught me how to cook. The memories I have of cooking with her inspire me every time I step into this space, especially when I’m cooking for my husband, which I absolutely love to do.

The Cabinet Color: Pashmina by PPG—A Breath of Fresh Air
When it came to choosing a color for the cabinets, I wanted something that felt cozy, elegant, and timeless—but I also wanted to stray away from the classic “white kitchen” trend, because I did the first time that I painted my kitchen cabinets. That’s when I fell in love with Pashmina by PPG. It’s this gorgeous neutral shade that’s a soft blend of greige (gray and beige), giving the kitchen warmth without overwhelming the space. Let me tell you, white is not always the answer if you’re looking to make a kitchen feel bigger and brighter. Pashmina did exactly that, while also adding a calming, sophisticated touch. You can definitely go with other neutral colors to achieve that airy feel without losing character.

DIY Countertops & Epoxy Magic
Another big project I tackled was the countertops. Instead of splurging on new ones, I decided to paint them! I used a durable countertop paint in a marble-inspired shade, then topped it off with a light coat of epoxy. The result? It looks like I spent thousands, but I barely spent a fraction of that! The glossy finish is sleek, durable, and oh-so-satisfying to see.

 My beautiful handles are from Amazon follow the link. https://amzn.to/3YnUnQK

Crown Molding: My Proud Moment
Installing crown molding by myself was one of those “I can’t believe I just did that” moments. It was a bit of a learning curve, but the sense of accomplishment I felt when it was finally up? Priceless. The crown molding gives the kitchen that high-end, polished look and really ties everything together.

A Space Full of Memories
This renovation wasn’t just about making the kitchen look good—it was about creating a space that feels personal. My grandma’s influence is everywhere in this kitchen, from the smell of her Colombian recipes to the joy I feel cooking meals for my husband, just like she taught me. Every time I stand by the stove, I can almost hear her giving me tips on how to get that perfect Sancocho de gallina criolla. This is why the renovation was so important to me—it’s a tribute to her and the love for cooking she passed down.

Dining Room Harmony
One of the best parts? The dining room now perfectly matches the kitchen! I carefully chose decor that complements the kitchen's neutral tones, bringing a seamless flow from one space to the other. Now, when we sit down to eat, whether it's a holiday meal or a casual dinner, the vibe is just right—welcoming, harmonious, and full of warmth.

So, if you’re thinking of renovating your kitchen, remember: you don’t have to stick to white to create a bright and open space. There’s a whole world of neutral tones out there, like Pashmina, that can give your kitchen personality and make it feel like a true reflection of you.


This post does contain affiliate links, which mean if you choose to purchase something while clicking a link in my post, I may receive a small commission.