In the time since I bought my 1938 home in June, 2001 I’ve made several improvements including:
- Converted from oil radiator heat and electric hot water tank to instant gas Navient Unit that supplies instant hot water for both radiators and hot water sources.
- Replaced all windows
- New garage roof
- Installed 4-car carport in back yard
- Installed privacy fence all around back yard
- Replaced back porch with larger back deck
- Replaced front porch and removed concrete steps and replaced with wood steps.
- Replaced back door and screen door with energy efficient
- Replaced washer and dryer with energy efficient
Now it’s time to do something functional, pretty, and fun. It’s time to do the kitchen.
When I started the process in a previous year I was planning on selling a collector car and paying just the bare minimum to upgrade. That plan included keeping appliances, adding laminate countertops, inexpensive cabinets, vinyl flooring, and a narrow dishwasher.
Last November I sat down with Cyndi Metts DeNeal of Solutions By Cyndi I pulled out all the stops. Cyndi and I see eye to eye on so much and she has great vision and brings a sense of usability to the kitchen design.
My small kitchen had the original cabinets that are good wood. The one on the far end is difficult to reach and isn’t usable. There’s not enough counter space. I got a hand-me-down smooth top stove a few years ago which gave me some extra work surface. I don’t have a dishwasher so dirty dishes seemed to always be piling up and couldn’t keep up some days which left to less space.
I only had two small drawers one for silverware and one for knives. I had a carousel holder for cooking utensils and a pot rack that hung overhead.
The freestanding sink base had been replaced by the former (second) owner with a cheap, mismatched piece that’s an eyesore and is on my last nerve!
I used the radiator to stack extra groceries and supplies on and a metal grocery cabinet from my grandmother for a pantry. I also used a wooden shelf for extra storage and a microwave cart.
I’ve sold the stove in about 5 minutes on Facebook marketplace. I’m cleaning out cabinets and getting ready for the crew to arrive tomorrow and start tearing everything out. It’s exciting and I know will be quite an ordeal.
I’m going to have them move the refrigerator to my dining room after they disconnect the water lines so I can use it for a few weeks. My microwave and cart will be moved there.
I do have the benefit of a basement apartment and kitchen downstairs, but am not ready to be using it at the moment because I stack laundry on the stove…I know! I had intended to put a small refrigerator down there as I loaned my apartment size one and it came back so disgusting I had to get rid of it. I should be more prepared. Life gets in the way. It will just make an interesting adventure!
We have extra propane and charcoal for the grill and will be eating out more often. I’ll be posting with photos and info as much as possible.
On Beth's Mind 