Jennifer from Making Pretty Spaces pulled off an incredible DIY kitchen transformation that’s both functional and family-friendly.
She spent 8 months tackling the project in phases, starting by knocking down a major wall to open up the kitchen and living area for her family of six.
To keep costs down, she kept the plumbing and range in place but upgraded to a double oven gas range—adding a gas line for just $500.
For cabinetry, she used IKEA boxes paired with Semihandmade DIY Shaker doors, which she painted in Benjamin Moore’s Quarry Rock.
She opted for 90% drawers in the lower cabinets and even customized a 40″ IKEA cabinet into a 35″ counter cabinet to fit her 9′ ceilings.
The countertops are a mix of DIY white concrete along the perimeter and a splurge-worthy black soapstone island.
She added Espresso Rough floating shelves from Shelfology, cut to size for her asymmetrical layout.
The island was designed to seat four kids without crowding the walkway, with tucked-away stools for a clean look.
She removed the wall separating the kitchen and the family area to open up the space…and did it ever!
The finishing touch?
A ribbed Kohler Whitehaven farmhouse sink she’d dreamed about for years.
Jennifer’s kitchen is a masterclass in balancing budget, beauty, and practicality.
You can see the full reveal and all the DIY details on her blog at Making Pretty Spaces.
DIY IKEA Kitchen Remodel Summary
Materials Used:
- IKEA Sektion cabinet boxes
- Semihandmade DIY Shaker cabinet fronts
- Benjamin Moore Quarry Rock paint
- Black soapstone countertop (island)
- DIY white concrete countertops (perimeter)
- Espresso Rough floating shelves from Shelfology
- Kohler Whitehaven apron front sink
- Double oven gas range (with new gas line)
- Custom cabinet hardware
Steps Overview:
- Demo the old kitchen and remove the wall to open up the layout.
- Install IKEA Sektion cabinet frames and customize dimensions where needed.
- Paint Semihandmade doors with Benjamin Moore Quarry Rock.
- Pour and finish white concrete countertops for the perimeter.
- Install black soapstone countertop on the island.
- Hang floating shelves and adjust lengths to fit unique wall space.
- Install farmhouse sink and new range with a gas line upgrade.
Key Tips:
- Plan your layout carefully—she used 90% drawers for better storage.
- Customize IKEA pieces when needed—Jennifer trimmed a cabinet to fit a taller ceiling.
- Save on some materials so you can splurge on statement features like the island countertop.
- Use Semihandmade fronts for a custom look without the full custom price tag.
What DIY’ers Are Saying About the Renovation
Smart Cabinetry Choices
Commenters say that they appreciate the clever use of IKEA cabinets combined with Semihandmade doors, which provides a custom look at a more affordable price point.
Efficient Storage Solutions
The decision to incorporate 90% drawers in the lower cabinetry is praised for enhancing storage efficiency and accessibility.
Balanced Countertop Approach
The mix of DIY white concrete countertops on the perimeter and a splurge on a black soapstone island is highlighted as a smart balance between cost-saving and investing in a standout feature.
These choices demonstrate how thoughtful planning and creative solutions can lead to a functional and stylish kitchen renovation.