Welcome back to my Renovation Diaries (if you have to see the previous 5 posts click here) . From here on out, things should start getting a bit more exciting. While progress sometimes feels like it’s moving at a snail’s pace—especially with a few unexpected delays (like needing to change some windows and LOTS of rain)—we’re finally starting to see momentum. The roof arrived (sitting and waiting to be installed once windows are in) and the windows should be arriving within weeks. Two major boxes checked! I’ve decided to ditch any strict timelines. Managing expectations is key, and if we finish earlier than planned, it’ll be an incredible surprise.
Today, I’m diving into what many of us call the heart of the home: the kitchen. That’s especially true for me. I genuinely enjoy cooking and entertaining. It’s funny to think how different that used to be—once tucked away and only utilitarian, kitchens have evolved into lively gathering spaces.
As I’ve been dreaming up this space, one thing is clear: I know what I like, and I tend to stick with it. I’ve never been one for trends. My style leans heavily classic and traditional, with maybe a few cleaner lines considering the home’s coastal setting. Since the kitchen will open into the breakfast room and look out onto the water, I knew from the very beginning that it had to be white.
Below is looking from the kitchen onto the future breakfast room-
Here is the actual space of the kitchen (first picture is the big sink window) and second picture would be looking out into the breakfast room with water view
I know—some may call white kitchens “boring”—but to me, when done right, they’re timeless and stunning. It’s all in the details: the cabinetry style, hardware, moldings, countertops, flooring, backsplash, and lighting all work together to bring character and soul to a space.
These below exemplify to me, a classic white kitchen. Having some glass fronted cabinets is a must for me, had them in all kitchens that we have done and loved the look.
I’ve created a little mood board (below) that captures the aesthetic I’ve been envisioning since day one. One element I’m still deciding on is the flooring. I’m leaning toward large reclaimed limestone pavers, most likely in soft, light beige tones—more monochromatic than the mix I had in my last home. Paris Ceramics has some gorgeous options, and I’m particularly intrigued by the Corfe. It’s beautiful, but I’ll be test-driving it a bit to see how it holds up to daily life.
One thing I knew without question from the very beginning of this entire process, was that I’d be using my beloved Delft tiles again. I truly love them—classic, elegant, and crisp. Had them in my first home we ever built (first picture below) and it was one of my favorite decisions! These are from Royal Delft, and after visiting their factory in Amsterdam last year, I left completely inspired. I’ll be placing that order soon!
Side note love this very soft blue with the delft, we have a pantry and I am considering doing it in a similar color
I’m also toying with the idea of using pleated fabric shades above the island. While they don’t offer as much light as open lanterns, this kitchen has great natural light thanks to its large windows and French doors. I think I can get away with it—and I just love the softness they add. Of course, this is all part of the process, and I’m sure there will be many iterations before we land on the final design.
So here is my mood board for what I foresee this kitchen to shape up like (fingers crossed)! This is just a concept for now, only definites are the delft tiles and white cabinets…love the range but looking at a broad range of them as its been over 13 years since I shopped for one!
PS If you have questions pertaining to this renovation please ask them in the comments and I will answer them there as well.
More to come soon… but I can already picture it and truth is, that day cannot come soon enough. I have been without a beautiful kitchen for 3 years and miss having that one space more than any other….one that is super important to me. And hopefully having it will “re inspire” me to cook and entertain the way I used to! What are you favorite elements to create the kitchen of your dreams? Look forward to sharing this journey as we continue along. Thanks for stopping in, until next time….
PS Speaking of kitchens and gadgets….this is BEST grater ever! I use it for vegetables, cheese, potatoes, zucchini sticks in literal seconds. This is an amazing little device and SO reasonable…a must have! Cannot even explain how easy this is making so much of the prep I normally dreaded:) Click here
White kitchens are THE BEST!!!! I also have used delft tiles as a backsplash, etc previously and love the look…… I still have my 20% overage from that project and plan to use AGAIN…… looks fabulous…..keep us updated…..
Tina, I agree with you the white kitchen is the perfect choice for your kitchen. Beautiful details shown in your pictures will make it look stunning. I love the herringbone floor. It will be one amazing kitchen.
Good morning, Tina!
You and I share the same idea regarding a perfect kitchen.
Each and every element of your mood board is spot on in my opinion. I enjoy seeing all of your ideas!
My kitchen cabinets are white, soft yellow walls. Blue and white vintage Spode plates, and some Dutch still-lifes are displayed on the walls.
When I want to change things up for different seasons, I sew a simple shirred valance for the sink window in a chinoiserie fabric and make a floral arrangement for the table in complementary colors.
The two chandeliers and the coffebar lamp wear Enchanted Home pleated shades, also in complementary colors. They add a softening effect that I love. The chairs around the table have lumbar pillows in removable covers to complement the current color scheme. They invite you to linger and relax around the table.
A functional kitchen is a must, but so is an esthetic that comforts and inspires. At the end of the day once everything is cleaned up and put away, your Enchanted Home “cane” pattern hurricanes on the sideboard glow with soft candlelight.
Your shop and all the wonderful ideas in your newsletter have helped me create a place that I never tire of. ❤️
As part of the pantry, my dream would be space to display within easy sight all the items for entertaining, including racks for tablecloths and easy drawers for napkins.
I totally agree that classic white is timeless for kitchens and like the idea of going with a soft blue for the pantry. What counter surface do you like best?
Hi Tina
You have made some gorgeous choices. Amazing taste. Just a suggestion, I have limestone floors in my kitchen installed when we built when I was 50. At 70, my knees and hips tire after standing on them for long days of cooking and baking. Hardwood has more give. Please consider your years ahead in this beautiful home.
Tina what a beautiful post. We just purchased a house and will be doing an eventual kitchen renovation. I am bookmarking this. I love every single thing that you’ve shared!! you have the best taste, do you still do your E design?
would love to know what you’re considering for countertops, I’m assuming marble? How have you found it to wear? Would love your take on using it because I do love the look..
i’m with you. I love a classic white kitchen. We bought a house about six years ago that had very nice quality oak cabinets. We had someone come in and professionally paint them white. It was such an astounding difference. We also added white Carrera marble and beautiful brass hardware.
I love the direction you’re going in, it will stand the test of time. I love the flooring. Is it real limestone or porcelain that looks like limestone? Would also be very interested to know what appliances you will choose because some of ours need to be replaced in the next year or so and I am very out of the loop as far as what’s new and good in the appliance world.
I am so glad someone mentioned the problem with the limestone flooring. I have downsized and had to adjust to not having my wood flooring. Please think about yourself when you decide.
I agree that white kitchens are timeless and are wonderful in just about any home. Your inspiration photos are amazing. I loved your previous kitchen, but I have a feeling this new kitchen is going to knock our socks off. I love your designs. Looks like you are having lots of fun. Enjoy.
Tina you helped me about 6 years ago to create my dream kitchen via your edesign and there is not a morning that I go in there that I don’t think to myself, how much I love it…even 6 years later. You steered me away from going too trendy and helped me to create a beautiful kitchen that will stand the test of time. Your patience and kindness will never be forgotten. You are well on your way to creating your own magnificent dream kitchen, love every single detail!
A fan for life,
Leslie A. from Boston
Planning on redoing mine as a “white kitchen”. I am struggling with what white sink to use with the marble countertop. I currently have a custom sink made out of the same granite as the countertops and it is huge – I don’t want to give up the size, but a custom marble sink would not be practical 🙂 would you mind posting a link to the sink you plan on using?
I will be using most likely Shaws farmohouse sinks in white again. I loved them and they are a great size 36″. There are a few newer options which I will explore as well and if anything great comes my way, will share it here!
I love, love, love your inspiration. What is the type of cabinets you are using in this kitchen? They are beautiful, and they are not. Shaker style. What are they? They are elegant yet functional. Do you have a name for them as I am remodeling my kitchen and stuck on cabinet style right now. I love the Paris pavers you are using on your floor! Stunning.
I love what you are dreaming! My husband remodeled our kitchen 10 years ago and to this day, I would not change a thing: white cabinets w/glassfronts, lots of windows, also lots of lighting, and hardwood flooring. I stalked the internet for two years until I knew exactly what I wanted and it has held true. I’m sure the same will be for you!
Hello Tina,
Can you please let me know who are the architect and builder? I’m on planning on some home renovations and really appreciate and like your style. Thanks.
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Good morning, everyone!
Welcome back to my Renovation Diaries (if you have to see the previous 5 posts click here) . From here on out, things should start getting a bit more exciting. While progress sometimes feels like it’s moving at a snail’s pace—especially with a few unexpected delays (like needing to change some windows and LOTS of rain)—we’re finally starting to see momentum. The roof arrived (sitting and waiting to be installed once windows are in) and the windows should be arriving within weeks. Two major boxes checked! I’ve decided to ditch any strict timelines. Managing expectations is key, and if we finish earlier than planned, it’ll be an incredible surprise.
Today, I’m diving into what many of us call the heart of the home: the kitchen. That’s especially true for me. I genuinely enjoy cooking and entertaining. It’s funny to think how different that used to be—once tucked away and only utilitarian, kitchens have evolved into lively gathering spaces.
As I’ve been dreaming up this space, one thing is clear: I know what I like, and I tend to stick with it. I’ve never been one for trends. My style leans heavily classic and traditional, with maybe a few cleaner lines considering the home’s coastal setting. Since the kitchen will open into the breakfast room and look out onto the water, I knew from the very beginning that it had to be white.
Below is looking from the kitchen onto the future breakfast room-
Here is the actual space of the kitchen (first picture is the big sink window) and second picture would be looking out into the breakfast room with water view
I know—some may call white kitchens “boring”—but to me, when done right, they’re timeless and stunning. It’s all in the details: the cabinetry style, hardware, moldings, countertops, flooring, backsplash, and lighting all work together to bring character and soul to a space.
These below exemplify to me, a classic white kitchen. Having some glass fronted cabinets is a must for me, had them in all kitchens that we have done and loved the look.
I’ve created a little mood board (below) that captures the aesthetic I’ve been envisioning since day one. One element I’m still deciding on is the flooring. I’m leaning toward large reclaimed limestone pavers, most likely in soft, light beige tones—more monochromatic than the mix I had in my last home. Paris Ceramics has some gorgeous options, and I’m particularly intrigued by the Corfe. It’s beautiful, but I’ll be test-driving it a bit to see how it holds up to daily life.
One thing I knew without question from the very beginning of this entire process, was that I’d be using my beloved Delft tiles again. I truly love them—classic, elegant, and crisp. Had them in my first home we ever built (first picture below) and it was one of my favorite decisions! These are from Royal Delft, and after visiting their factory in Amsterdam last year, I left completely inspired. I’ll be placing that order soon!
Side note love this very soft blue with the delft, we have a pantry and I am considering doing it in a similar color
I’m also toying with the idea of using pleated fabric shades above the island. While they don’t offer as much light as open lanterns, this kitchen has great natural light thanks to its large windows and French doors. I think I can get away with it—and I just love the softness they add. Of course, this is all part of the process, and I’m sure there will be many iterations before we land on the final design.
So here is my mood board for what I foresee this kitchen to shape up like (fingers crossed)! This is just a concept for now, only definites are the delft tiles and white cabinets…love the range but looking at a broad range of them as its been over 13 years since I shopped for one!
PS If you have questions pertaining to this renovation please ask them in the comments and I will answer them there as well.
__________________________________________________
More to come soon… but I can already picture it and truth is, that day cannot come soon enough. I have been without a beautiful kitchen for 3 years and miss having that one space more than any other….one that is super important to me. And hopefully having it will “re inspire” me to cook and entertain the way I used to! What are you favorite elements to create the kitchen of your dreams? Look forward to sharing this journey as we continue along. Thanks for stopping in, until next time….
PS Speaking of kitchens and gadgets….this is BEST grater ever! I use it for vegetables, cheese, potatoes, zucchini sticks in literal seconds. This is an amazing little device and SO reasonable…a must have! Cannot even explain how easy this is making so much of the prep I normally dreaded:) Click here
White kitchens are THE BEST!!!! I also have used delft tiles as a backsplash, etc previously and love the look…… I still have my 20% overage from that project and plan to use AGAIN…… looks fabulous…..keep us updated…..
Tina, I agree with you the white kitchen is the perfect choice for your kitchen. Beautiful details shown in your pictures will make it look stunning. I love the herringbone floor. It will be one amazing kitchen.
Good morning, Tina!
You and I share the same idea regarding a perfect kitchen.
Each and every element of your mood board is spot on in my opinion. I enjoy seeing all of your ideas!
My kitchen cabinets are white, soft yellow walls. Blue and white vintage Spode plates, and some Dutch still-lifes are displayed on the walls.
When I want to change things up for different seasons, I sew a simple shirred valance for the sink window in a chinoiserie fabric and make a floral arrangement for the table in complementary colors.
The two chandeliers and the coffebar lamp wear Enchanted Home pleated shades, also in complementary colors. They add a softening effect that I love. The chairs around the table have lumbar pillows in removable covers to complement the current color scheme. They invite you to linger and relax around the table.
A functional kitchen is a must, but so is an esthetic that comforts and inspires. At the end of the day once everything is cleaned up and put away, your Enchanted Home “cane” pattern hurricanes on the sideboard glow with soft candlelight.
Your shop and all the wonderful ideas in your newsletter have helped me create a place that I never tire of. ❤️
As part of the pantry, my dream would be space to display within easy sight all the items for entertaining, including racks for tablecloths and easy drawers for napkins.
I totally agree that classic white is timeless for kitchens and like the idea of going with a soft blue for the pantry. What counter surface do you like best?
Hi Tina
You have made some gorgeous choices. Amazing taste. Just a suggestion, I have limestone floors in my kitchen installed when we built when I was 50. At 70, my knees and hips tire after standing on them for long days of cooking and baking. Hardwood has more give. Please consider your years ahead in this beautiful home.
Thank you Tina for sharing these great pics. They are truly inspiring. I may have to attempt to snap up a cottage to reno. Your taste is sublime.
Tina what a beautiful post. We just purchased a house and will be doing an eventual kitchen renovation. I am bookmarking this. I love every single thing that you’ve shared!! you have the best taste, do you still do your E design?
would love to know what you’re considering for countertops, I’m assuming marble? How have you found it to wear? Would love your take on using it because I do love the look..
that mood board is perfection💕💕
i’m with you. I love a classic white kitchen. We bought a house about six years ago that had very nice quality oak cabinets. We had someone come in and professionally paint them white. It was such an astounding difference. We also added white Carrera marble and beautiful brass hardware.
I love the direction you’re going in, it will stand the test of time. I love the flooring. Is it real limestone or porcelain that looks like limestone? Would also be very interested to know what appliances you will choose because some of ours need to be replaced in the next year or so and I am very out of the loop as far as what’s new and good in the appliance world.
That window is amazing!
Beautiful plans and design!
I am so glad someone mentioned the problem with the limestone flooring. I have downsized and had to adjust to not having my wood flooring. Please think about yourself when you decide.
Oh it is going to be divine! All these kitchens and mood boards are perfection to me.
I agree that white kitchens are timeless and are wonderful in just about any home. Your inspiration photos are amazing. I loved your previous kitchen, but I have a feeling this new kitchen is going to knock our socks off. I love your designs. Looks like you are having lots of fun. Enjoy.
TOTALLY GORGEOUS!! My favorite thugs are the limestone and that baby blue range ❤️❤️
Tina you helped me about 6 years ago to create my dream kitchen via your edesign and there is not a morning that I go in there that I don’t think to myself, how much I love it…even 6 years later. You steered me away from going too trendy and helped me to create a beautiful kitchen that will stand the test of time. Your patience and kindness will never be forgotten. You are well on your way to creating your own magnificent dream kitchen, love every single detail!
A fan for life,
Leslie A. from Boston
Looks fabulous!
Planning on redoing mine as a “white kitchen”. I am struggling with what white sink to use with the marble countertop. I currently have a custom sink made out of the same granite as the countertops and it is huge – I don’t want to give up the size, but a custom marble sink would not be practical 🙂 would you mind posting a link to the sink you plan on using?
I will be using most likely Shaws farmohouse sinks in white again. I loved them and they are a great size 36″. There are a few newer options which I will explore as well and if anything great comes my way, will share it here!
Tina,
I love, love, love your inspiration. What is the type of cabinets you are using in this kitchen? They are beautiful, and they are not. Shaker style. What are they? They are elegant yet functional. Do you have a name for them as I am remodeling my kitchen and stuck on cabinet style right now. I love the Paris pavers you are using on your floor! Stunning.
I love what you are dreaming! My husband remodeled our kitchen 10 years ago and to this day, I would not change a thing: white cabinets w/glassfronts, lots of windows, also lots of lighting, and hardwood flooring. I stalked the internet for two years until I knew exactly what I wanted and it has held true. I’m sure the same will be for you!
Hello Tina,
Can you please let me know who are the architect and builder? I’m on planning on some home renovations and really appreciate and like your style. Thanks.
You are an inspiration. Would you share the white colors you will use on your cabinets and white walls? And the source of the light fixtures?