See impressive before-and-after photos, and get inspired to remodel your own space with our kitchen makeover tips.
basic white and wood kitchenBefore: Clean But Basic
When a pipe burst under the sink, this homeowner knew it was time to remodel. Outdated appliances, dark wood cabinets, and a boring light fixture were swapped out to brighten and lighten up the space.
Plus: Try these 12 quick makeover projects »
After: Unified White
To ensure that the new bottom cabinets matched the old upper units, the homeowner painted both with Benjamin Moore's Linen White -- a move that lightened up the whole kitchen.
Laminate countertops were removed in favor of Ikea's affordable oak option -- which cost just $800 total and can be sanded down when cooking blunders occur.
Before: Uninspired Space
The counters and cabinets in this kitchen needed a chic update, but the vintage stove had too much charm and potential to get rid of.
Plus: Fantastic deals! Check out these 50 finds for less than $50 »
After: Bright White
The homeowner kept the kitchen's old Chambers stove and cabinets -- now improved with new fronts and a coat of Benjamin Moore's Patriotic White -- but jettisoned the Formica counters and dark backsplash in favor or marble and white subway tiles.
Before: Dark and Cramped
This kitchen's heavy, wood island and dark brick backsplash created the feeling of cramped quarters.
Plus: The ultimate guide to kitchen decorating »
After: Open and Airy
Designed Sara Story and her sister, Lisa, share a laugh in Lisa's much-improved Connecticut kitchen.
Sara banished the awkward upper cabinets -- and dated wooden valance -- from the wall with a pass-through window. She replaced the rest with sleek custom units and got rid of the hulking island. Sara also scrapped the bricks and installed plain Sheetrock painted white.
Before: Needs Some TLC
The owner of this Pennsylvania home, Mary Jane McCarty, planned a "kitchen de-modernization" project that included replacing dated linoleum with stock tile from Home Depot, laid at an angle to achieve the charming look of an old pharmacy.
Plus: 100+ bedroom design ideas you'll love! »
After: Updated Vintage-Look
McCarty also hung custom cupboards above a vintage basin, installed a teakwood countertop around the sink, and added a marble backsplash. The flower-shaped table belonged to her grandmother.
Before: Unfinished Shell
This unfinished kitchen was basically an empty shell and needed a lot of work. The renovation team started from scratch.
Plus: 40 more incredible before-and-after home makeovers »
After: Finished Favorite
"Now the kitchen's my favorite place in the house," says owner Sacha Dunn, who updated the space with stainless-steel appliances and custom maple cabinets with butcher-block tops.
See more from CountryLiving.com:
Our Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Decorating »
40 Amazing Before-and-After Home Makeovers »
10 Ways to Design a Colorful Bedroom »
20 Easy Ways to Update Your Kitchen »
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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
