keen on design: Before and After: Light and Airy Kitchen

A very well thought out and budget conscious kitchen remodel. My favorite details are the cabinet paint colors and the glass backdrop.

After two years of living with a dreary kitchen, it was finally time for Lindsey Ellis Beatty, Decorating Editor, who shares the space with her husband and two boys. After spending an entire year researching, compiling tear sheets, and planning the space, Lindsey devised a manageable renovation plan.

"I know that anything requiring construction cannot be easily changed, so I played it safe and spent money wisely." Having saved in other areas, Lindsey was able to invest in white quartz countertops, dark, easy-to-mop hardwood floors, and a new tongue-and-groove ceiling - all materials that will hold up well over time.

Being experienced in the remodeling process, Lindsey ordered all of her paints, fixtures, and appliances before construction even began to prevent delays waiting on products to arrive.

Raising the existing cabinets to the ceiling gave Lindsey space to install the floating shelves above the countertops. That extra space is so smart!

Mindful of her need to save money but not one to cut corners, Lindsey kept the kitchens original footprint and placement of appliances. She designed a new custom pantry with double doors that echo the look of the refrigerator. The extra storage space now houses the microwave and helps anchor the refrigerator against the wall.

As for the breakfast nook, Lindsey continued to work on a budget. She found the camelback sofa at a yard sale for $25. Having saved so much on the sofa, she reupholstered it in a bright coral.