Home idea with IKEA: a fresh take on a 30-years-old kitchen

About the kitchen in her apartment in Rakvere, Ines said: "My kitchen is as old as I am — even the ceiling lamp is about to fall down. At first glance, it doesn’t look too bad, but the furniture is 30 years old..." She dreams about kitchen cabinets doors that actually close and hopes for the outdated wall mural to be painted over.

Before: a small kitchen longing for a fresh start

Ines' L-shaped kitchen has served her for many years, and the furnishings are well past their prime. The cabinet doors, covered with dark film 15 years ago, have become misaligned over time and no longer close properly. The dark color of the cabinets makes the already small space look even smaller. The worktop is limited, there could be more storage space, and the ceiling lamp is indeed on the verge of falling down.

After: a bright and functional space where cooking is a breeze

Our small, dark-toned kitchen has been transformed beyond recognition. To design the space, IKEA interior designer Caroli Heimonen was inspired by Ines’ vibrant personality. Ines isn’t afraid of color, so the kitchen walls were painted green, and the backsplash behind the stove is also colorful. Caroli found a new spot for the washing machine, adding valuable countertop space that Ines was previously missing.

Kitchen

Various kinds of storage

Wall and floor cabinets are essential in every kitchen. In this space, Caroli complemented them with rails and hooks, making items more accessible and freeing up counter space. Instead of a cabinet above the countertop, she installed a shelf, which gives the space a more open feel.

Wall organisers

Everything at its place in the base cabinets

All utensils together with the pots and pans have found their place in drawers and other closed storage. A corner base cabinet with carousel helps to maximize the use of space. A waste sorting system that goes under the sink is always handy. And the scrubbing pads hang readily right nearby.

Kitchen storage, organising & waste sorting

A drop-leaf table that creates space for both crafts and hosting

For Ines’ kitchen, our designer Caroli chose a drop-leaf table. "Ines uses the kitchen table not only for eating but also for sewing, and sometimes her friends or family come over, so she needs a bigger table. Then, the table can be folded out, and afterward, it can be folded back to create more space for her everyday activities in the kitchen," says Caroli.

Dining

Tips and tricks to furnish a similar kitchen

Opt for lighter furniture that reflects light and instantly gives the room a brighter look. Accent colors can be added with details like accessories.
Consider using open shelves instead of wall cabinets to create a more open and spacious feel.
Whenever possible, use a variety of lighting solutions (general lighting, spotlights, and task lighting for countertops).

Previous makeovers