After weeks of dedicated effort and inspired DIY projects, we’re thrilled to present David’s remarkable kitchen transformation. If you’ve missed the previous installments, catch up with the
before post and the
step-by-step guide. David partnered with
Frigidaire to incorporate their new professional-grade appliances, seamlessly blending them with simple DIY improvements that completely revolutionized his kitchen. Prepare to be inspired by the incredible results!
David’s perspective, courtesy of ManMadeDIY:
The kitchen: the undisputed heart of any home. It’s often the most utilized and arguably the most crucial space. Unfortunately, my kitchen was falling short. It felt like that uninspiring roommate you’re stuck with – blending into the background, offering nothing of value.
After years of enduring this mundane reality, I decided enough was enough. I embarked on a mission to revitalize the room, incorporating new Frigidaire Professional appliances and undertaking a series of DIY projects to achieve a dramatic and impactful transformation.
After several busy weeks of work, I’m thrilled to share the final reveal with you today. Here we go! (To catch up on everything we did, check out the first two posts: the
planning, and the
process)
The appliance upgrade was surprisingly simple. The new Frigidaire Professional appliances perfectly matched the footprint of the existing ones, requiring only a straightforward swap-out. The delivery from Lowe’s marked the beginning of a quick and seamless transformation to a more modern and functional kitchen.
This project was particularly exciting because once we began, the changes materialized rapidly. Painting the cabinetry required a significant time investment, but the other DIY projects were completed swiftly, resulting in a substantial and immediate improvement to the overall aesthetic.
The painted cabinetry, enhanced with crown molding, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the kitchen. This transformation showcases the power of paint and simple architectural details.
The installation of a skylight proved to be an easy and impressive upgrade, dramatically increasing the amount of natural light within the space. This simple addition has completely transformed the ambiance of the kitchen.
A simple faucet replacement provided a significant visual upgrade, instantly modernizing the entire sink area. This small change created a fresh and updated look.
With the freshly painted cabinets installed, the anticipation for the arrival of the new stainless steel appliances was palpable. Lowe’s delivered the appliances directly to our door, and within hours, they were installed, and we were preparing our first meal.
The difference that professional-quality appliances make in both the ease of cooking and the quality of the results is truly remarkable. Cooking with these appliances has been a completely different experience. Achieving great results has become simpler, and the ease of use and cleanup have reignited our passion for dinnertime. Furthermore, the Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel feature effectively resists fingerprints, making cleaning effortless.
The most impactful upgrades were undoubtedly the stove and refrigerator. Replacing the glass-top electric range with a gas stove represents a significant change. The pans now heat up quickly and evenly, providing exceptional control. The
Frigidaire Professional range features excellent burners, well-organized controls, heavy-duty knobs, and exudes a sense of high-quality craftsmanship.
The
refrigerator boasts an abundance of storage space, adjustable shelves, and a rapid ice-making capability, which is perfect for accommodating guests. The two large ice makers filled up quickly and effortlessly kept up with the demand.
The new
microwave hood introduced a feature that we didn’t realize we needed: a convection oven mode. This allows the microwave to function as a small electric convection oven, ideal for smaller tasks that don’t require heating up the large gas oven. We used it to cook sweet potatoes and chocolate chip cookies on the first night, and both turned out perfectly in roughly the same amount of time as the larger oven. This is also an excellent feature for keeping food warm while preparing a meal for guests.
The soft LED lights on all the appliances represent a significant improvement over the old yellow bulbs. While seemingly minor, the crisp white glow enhances visibility. Another unexpected but appreciated feature is the audio alerts on the appliances. Say goodbye to obnoxious timer sounds; these appliances now use soft beeps that are effective without the jarring noises of the past.
The features we appreciate most in the
dishwasher are its clean front with hidden top touch buttons, adjustable racks, and 30-minute quick cycle.
Full Product List:
- Refrigerator –
Frigidaire Professional® French Door Bottom Mount Refrigerator with Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel - Range:
Frigidaire Professional® Freestanding Back Control Range with convection and temperature probe - Microwave:
Frigidaire Professional® Over-The-Range Microwave - Dishwasher:
Frigidaire Professional® Dishwasher - Cabinet Hardware:
allen + roth pewter cabinet pulls - Paint:
HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams paint and primer (Snowbound SW 7004 & Web Gray SW 7075) - Backsplash Tile:
American Olean Starting Line White Subway Tile - Faucet:
Giagni Fresco Stainless 1-Handle Pull-Down Faucet - Skylight:
VELUX Sun Tunnel
This project was a significant undertaking, but the results are undeniably rewarding. The kitchen is now brighter, more functional, and embodies the essence of a truly great kitchen – a space where family gathers, friends are welcomed, and life unfolds.
This post is sponsored by Frigidaire Professional, but all opinions are mine alone. Thanks for supporting the brands that support ManMade and Curbly.
Key Takeaways from David’s Kitchen Remodel
- Professional Appliances Elevate Functionality: Upgrading to Frigidaire Professional appliances significantly improved the cooking experience and overall kitchen efficiency. The improved features and performance made meal preparation more enjoyable and efficient.
- DIY Projects Offer Budget-Friendly Transformation: Simple DIY projects, such as painting the cabinets and installing a new faucet, created a dramatic transformation without breaking the bank. These smaller projects complemented the appliance upgrades to create a cohesive and updated look.
- Natural Light Enhances Ambiance: The addition of a skylight dramatically increased the amount of natural light in the kitchen, creating a brighter and more inviting space. This simple addition had a significant impact on the overall ambiance of the room.
- Small Details Make a Big Difference: The soft LED lights and subtle audio alerts on the new appliances added a touch of modern sophistication and improved the overall user experience. These details may seem small, but they contributed significantly to the overall transformation.
- Prioritize Functionality and Aesthetics: David’s kitchen remodel successfully blended functionality and aesthetics, creating a space that is both beautiful and practical. This approach ensures that the kitchen is not only visually appealing but also a joy to use.
- Planning and Preparation are Essential: David’s success was partly due to his meticulous planning and preparation. Having a clear vision and a well-defined plan helped him stay on track and achieve his desired results. Referencing his planning post is a must before embarking on your remodel.
Expert Tips for Your Own Kitchen Upgrade
- Assess Your Needs: Before starting any renovation, carefully assess your needs and priorities. Identify the areas of your kitchen that require the most improvement and focus your efforts accordingly.
- Set a Realistic Budget: Establish a realistic budget and stick to it. Research the costs of materials and labor, and factor in potential unforeseen expenses.
- Consider Professional Help: While DIY projects can save money, consider hiring professionals for tasks that require specialized skills or knowledge, such as electrical or plumbing work.
- Choose Durable Materials: Opt for durable and long-lasting materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. This will help ensure that your kitchen renovation remains beautiful and functional for years to come.
- Prioritize Storage: Maximize storage space by incorporating clever storage solutions, such as pull-out shelves, cabinet organizers, and vertical storage racks.
- Don’t Forget the Lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in the ambiance and functionality of your kitchen. Incorporate a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit and inviting space.
In conclusion, David’s Frigidaire Professional DIY kitchen upgrade serves as a testament to the power of thoughtful planning, creative execution, and quality appliances. By combining professional-grade elements with personalized DIY touches, he has transformed his kitchen into a space that is not only visually stunning but also highly functional and enjoyable to use. His experience provides valuable inspiration and practical guidance for anyone looking to embark on their own kitchen renovation journey. So, take the leap, unleash your creativity, and transform your kitchen into the heart of your home!