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Project: A Minnetonka kitchen
Positives: Lots of storage space, room for a table and newer appliances
Negatives: Dated wallpaper border, cabinets and linoleum; too much clutter
Despite having plenty of storage space and room for a table and chairs, this kitchen's overall appearance was unappealing.
"The cabinetry was our main focus," said Lori Matzke of Centerstagehome.com. "By painting the cupboards a color that would complement the older linoleum rather than contrast, the entire space felt more up-to-date."
Here's what Matzke did to make an old kitchen more appealing.
She removed the wallpaper border, which pulled off easily. Tip: Remove tougher borders and wallpaper with a combination of 1 cup fabric softener mixed with 16 oz. of water.
Clutter makes a potential buyer think you're short of storage space, so Matzke removed everything on the refrigerator and counters that wasn't absolutely necessary and took down a bulletin board on the back wall to make the space feel tidy.
To downplay the dated linoleum and make the space feel more cohesive, Matzke cleaned, sanded and painted the cabinets an antique butterscotch. Painting the window trim the same color helps draw attention to the view.
To make the space feel brighter, Maztke cleaned the overhead fixture, replaced the bulb and put a small lamp on the empty shelf.
A bright painting on a blank wall draws your eye throughout the room.
To make the cabinets look more finished Matzke installed eight matching antique brown kitchen knobs she bought for $9.99.
Matzke used greenery and wicker planters to soften the appearance of the room, while a bright floral bouquet on the table makes the space feel cheery.
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