Seeing the possibilities...

I never really thought much about the ability to look at a space and envision what it would look like differently.  Even as a kid I could see something and just picture it a different colour or configuration.  Honestly, I thought everyone could do that.  Like breathing.  Then I got older and realized that not everyone can do what I do in the same way that I am seriously lacking in math skills.

This kitchen was no different.  I could see the cabinets, countertops, tile and the coveted range hood before we ever tore any of it out.  I knew that with the right design this 9x12 kitchen could bring it.

Here are a few shots of where we started:

The original cabinetry was actually in very good shape.  The construction was solid and they were built on site...back in 1970.  I toyed with the idea of keeping the lowers, but the configuration of them on the right side included a built in oven, and there was no way to convert that into anything usable.  Along with Travis' crazy work schedule and us having to be moved in by August, we opted to purchase new cabinets.

Then came the demolition part.  Funny tidbit, we started ripping the kitchen out before it was funded through the lender.  I think our real estate agent had a small heart attack when he called and could hear hammering in the background.  It all worked out fine, house funded just as we were pulling out the last cabinet ;)

Here is what the kitchen looks like today.  It was a complete gut job, but well worth it in the end.  We still have a smidge of trim work to finish up, but I am calling this kitchen "finished"...

Range hood by the talented Tuesdays with Dorie stove is a GE drop in...

Cabinets are Kraftmaid in Mushroom...

Light from Kenroy Home

Open shelving designed and built by Travis...

Fridge only by Frigidaire...

Molasses man sat in my Grandmother's kitchen...

I get asked a lot about how I am liking the marble.  I love it, as in sometimes I sneak downstairs at night, pet it and softly sing to it.  Yes, it scratches- we already have a few, and yes, it stains- those are coming I'm sure, but I find beauty in the imperfections.

Hope y'all are having a lovely week so far.  I am still sorting through things in the garage and slowly, but surely thinning it all out.  Downsizing has been a process, but I feel 100 pounds lighter for it!