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A dark kitchen with brown cabinetry was transformed using earthy green paint and shaker-style fronts.
The project
We transformed our dark, dated kitchen into a calm and organic space. The original brown cabinetry and harsh contrast were replaced with soft shaker-style fronts, all painted in a beautiful earthy green. We built out the island to add character and improve function, then added warm brass lighting and woven leather stools for texture and warmth. Subtle details like new hardware and natural accents help bring everything together. The result is a fresh, timeless kitchen that feels inviting and blends modern simplicity with a relaxed, organic vibe.
Before photos:
Steps
Step 1
We unassembled the existing cabinet sides and backings, and removed the sides of the stove benches, and the kickboards from all the cupboards. An electrician was brought in to disconnect stove, island power and pendant lights.
Step 2
Tiles were removed from the floor and replaced with hybrid flooring. We took some measurements and mocked up and built the frame for the island side pillars.
Step 3
Cut and installed the sheets of MDF for the new sides next to the stove, and installed using wood screws. Cut and installed the sides, backing and leg surrounds for the island. Cut and installed the new kick boards using nail gun, compressor and Liquid Nails. New side panels on the upper wall cabinets were cut and installed. Cut out and installed new power point on the side of the island. Electrician was brought back in to reinstall stove and reconnect power back to the kitchen island.
Step 4
Cut a heap of 4mm MDF strips at 60mm, then ran those same MDF pieces through the table saw again at a 25 degree angle to create the desired shaker profile. We then added the shaker look detail to the island sides and back, using nail gun and Liquid Nails. Wood filler was used to cover joins and nail holes, before the entire island was sanded fully.
Step 5
Primed entire island and new door fronts.
Step 6
We converted two of the cabinets on the far side of the kitchen into sets of drawers to utilise the space better.
Kitchen Island, new door fronts, oven side panels and kickboards all painted in Porter's Paint Oakmoss. Island, and kickboards were painted with a roller. All door fronts and side panels were spray painted. Two coats of paint were applied to all doors, panels and island, sanding in-between.
Step 7
Soft close hinges were installed and all doors mounted with new knobs and handles. Hand towel rail was installed on the side of the island.
Step 8
Pantry was repainted to match the new kitchen colour scheme.
Step 9
Sit back and enjoy the new kitchen.
Tools and materials
Materials used in the project:
- MDF sheets
- Pine timber panel
- Construction adhesive
- Wood filler
- Prepare and prime paint
- Porters paint Oakmoss Aquasatin
- Brass cupboard handles and knobs
- Hybrid flooring sandblasted Blackbutt
- Pendant lights.
Tools used in the project:
More inspiration for your kitchen makeover
Bunnings Workshop member Lucille used paint and new benchtops for her Heritage-style kitchen makeover.
Experienced community member Rufaro used a new benchtop and paint for a cosmetic kitchen makeover.
Get more inspiration from our Top 10 most popular kitchen projects, 20 kitchens transformed with paint, and 10 budget kitchen makeovers.
