Have you heard of the term un-kitchen? It is the feeling and the mood that I think I have been trying to create in my kitchen and dining area for the past few years. But, the term un-kitchen is new to me and it means creating a kitchen that feels cozy and warm space that feels more like a living space than a utilitarian space.
We are VERY slowly working on creating such a space in our kitchen. And while I painted my cupboards almost five years ago, we are currently working on the next remodel steps. Here is my mood board for our kitchen:
Keep reading to learn more about the un-kitchen and to see the details I am using to create this feeling in my space. My cupboards are a dark navy blue on the lowers and a stone/tan color. You can see them HERE. I have been living with blush/pink Corian counters and backsplash for years. My color-blind husband couldn't see the pink so it never bugged him. The faucet was leaking so badly (into the sink, not under it) and it was rusted so badly that we decided it was time to remove the whole built in sink and counter. We are replacing that counter with butcher block. We are tiling the backsplash with 3" x 12" white subway tile that we will place in a stacked arrangement. What is happening with the pink tile and Corian on the island is up in the air. One step, one bite of the elephant at a time. For years I have been unsure about using butcher block because I know it will ding and dent. But, after watching an episode of Capturing Home (the show that has also inspired me to create mood bords), they talked about how butcher block ages and wears beautifully and how the dings and dents add character, I was sold on it. Warm wood is crucial in the un-kitchen vibe.
There are beautiful tiles out there--lovely colors and designs. But, I know myself and I change my color schemes and style fairly frequently so we chose basic white tile. I am happy to repaint walls or furniture every 3-5 years, but pulling out tile and redoing it? No thank you! Keep the big projects, the hard work jobs and big expense items neutral. We are stacking rather than staggering the tile for a more modern look. The white will help to add light to the kitchen too, which is needed.
Part of the un-kitchen idea is to remove upper cabinets. That is not happening right now. I will be using other elements that are typically in other home spaces. Lamps placed on the counters, vintage cookbooks, worn cutting boards, brass candlesticks and greenery all add to the warm and cozy style that I am hoping to achieve. I use lots of colors in my home--white and wood, navy blue and tan, rusty oranges, deep yellows and dark greens. They all work together and help to create a personal and unique space that is welcoming and certainly not a blah and outdated kitchen space. Stay tuned for finished pictures!
I am anticipating a remodel, too and have decided to use butcher block for many of the same reasons as you are. I think it will add warmth. My sister-in-law is apalled at my choice. But it will go with anything and is less expensive than a stone counter would be.
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