You know those projects you *think* about for ages but never quite get around to? This was one of those. I’ve wanted to refresh this space for so long, but with the existing paneling, I knew once I started, there’d be no turning back. And honestly? I wasn’t sure I was ready to open that can of worms.
This corner particularly, has always been an eyesore, I’ve just hid the disaster with cutting boards as not to be reminded by it everytime I walked into the kitchen.
So, what started as a simple backsplash update quickly turned into a full-blown kitchen refresh—because, of course, it did!
The Beadboard Backsplash That Started It All
It all began with some leftover beadboard from my breezeway project. Instead of letting it sit in the garage, I decided to install it as a backsplash in the kitchen. And just like that, the whole space started to feel warmer and more inviting. But then I thought… why stop at the backsplash?
Extending the Beadboard Around the Room
Once the backsplash was up, I knew the rest of the space needed to follow suit. So, I continued the beadboard as wainscoting throughout the kitchen and into the breakfast nook. Suddenly, the entire space felt more intentional, cozy, and classic—like it was always meant to be this way.
Upgrading the Details: Range Hood & Window Trim
Since I was already in DIY mode (and covered in sawdust), I decided to add some extra details. The range hood got a simple trim upgrade, instantly making it look more custom. I also decided to beef up the window trim, giving the space a more polished look.
Fresh Paint & Final Touches
No refresh is truly complete without a fresh coat of paint! Once everything was in place, I grabbed my brush and got to work, painting the beadboard, window trim, and range hood to tie the whole space together. I chose Sculptor Clay by Behr for the beadboard and trim, a perfect warm neutral, and SW Snowbound for the walls to keep things crisp and bright. The transformation? Exactly what this space needed!
And just as a reminder as to where we started in this kitchen almost 5 years ago;
What’s Next?
There’s still a bit more to do in the breakfast nook, but even with a few tweaks left (notice all the little specks of green tape everywhere), this space already feels so much cozier and more charming. I’m so glad I finally tackled it!
I love it! I love how subtle changes really add up to more sophistication!
Author
Could t agree more! The hanks Erin 🥰
Carli, your kitchen refresh is looking fantastic! The way you’ve used paint to transform the space is truly inspiring. I recently undertook a similar project in my own kitchen, and it’s amazing how a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into a room. Choosing the right color was a journey—I wanted something that would brighten the space and make it feel more open. After some deliberation, I settled on a soft sage green, and the difference it made was incredible.​
Your attention to detail and the cozy, charming atmosphere you’ve created resonate with my own experiences. It’s encouraging to see how thoughtful design choices, like your paint selection, can have such a profound impact. Thank you for sharing your journey; it’s both motivating and delightful to follow along.
Your progress is so inspiring—thanks for sharing the journey with us!