The Ikea cabinets are officially purchased, and I’ve got the hefty bill to prove it. (Even with the 15 percent gift card rebate, it’s a big number to swallow.) I’m still very nervous about the choice. When surfing the net, looking for reassurance, I found a few design layouts using the Ikea Lidingo that turned my stomach. Awful, awful…. But I know design works in combination; a few good choices can set something off beautifully, a few bad ones can destroy a look completely. (Just like fashion. The same skirt on two different girls can look totally different.) I just have to believe we’re going to rock this style, no matter what.
It’s also a learning experience. Maybe on our next house, we’ll have all the contacts and know-how to investigate other options. We’ll also be confident enough to try a craftier, more recycled approach to kitchen design. Or maybe we’ll do exactly the same thing because we know it works smashingly well. We’ll see! But choices move us forward, that’s why we have to make them.
Next big decision? Countertop surface. (The countertops weren’t part of the Ikea sale so we’re shopping around for good deals and good ideas.) We can do wood (cheaper, something with a dark stain to play off the white cabinets.) Or stone. (The FC has a lead on a place for granite at a good price.) We could also consider a white tiled countertop, which would be very thrifty. As always, any good ideas or contacts welcome.

Dark wood sets off white cabinets beautifully and also reflects light. Love the light fixtures and vintage white stools.

White tiled countertop has a homey, country style vibe and is easier on the wallet. The rounded wood edge gives definition between the white tiles and white cabinet base. It also picks up the wood door handles. But maybe this look is a little too country for me.

Stone is costly, but durable and gorgeous. Love the gray and black speckled stone. It's a softer look than using black stone, which we're considering.

Uninspiring use of Lidingo. But maybe that's the icky light fixture's fault. I also don't like the countertop colour, or the microwave and stove area. We chose a sleek fan and a stove with the controls on the front. Both would help this kitchen considerably. Right now, it's just overstuffed with cabinetry. Nothing breathes.