From Outdated to Outstanding: A 90s Kitchen Makeover with Heart, Function & Style

A modern, more functional kitchen with warmth & character. More before & after photos below.

One of my favorite kinds of transformations is a kitchen remodel—especially one like this, where we had the chance to turn a dark, dated space into a bright, welcoming heart of the home. This 90s kitchen in our Dublin home had good bones, but it was burdened by forest green laminate tile floors, heavy cherry wood cabinets, and black appliances that sucked the light right out of the room.

The goal? To create a modern, more functional layout without losing the warmth and character that makes a kitchen feel like the soul of a home. Below, I’ll walk you through the design story—divided into the functional improvements that made the kitchen work better, and the aesthetic decisions that brought it to life.

Function Meets Flow: Enhancing Usability

1. A Smarter Layout

The original kitchen layout felt heavy, cave-like and inefficient. We reimagined the floor plan to create a better flow and opened up the space by removing visual clutter. One of the most impactful changes? Adding a small but mighty island. Built by local artisan Magnolia Cabinetry, this piece adds storage, prep space, and even includes a power outlet—perfect for small appliances or charging phones. With soft-close drawers and a beautiful painted finish, it brings a subtle pop of color and craftsmanship to the room.

2. Integrated Trash Cabinet

A small detail, but one that changed the everyday functionality: we added a designated trash cabinet. Previously, the trash bin was tucked away in the pantry which was fairly far from the kitchen cooking space. This hidden cabinet now makes clean-up more intuitive and visually clutter-free.

3. Banquette Seating + Narrow Custom Table

To maximize the dining area, we incorporated a built-in bench paired with a custom-made narrow table, designed to fit the space perfectly without overwhelming it. The upholstered bench added not just seating, but also softness and personality to that side of the room—introducing a cozy, inviting texture that breaks up the hard surfaces of wood, tile, and cabinetry. It became a true anchor for casual family meals and morning routines.

4. New Flooring That Opens the Room

One of the most transformative updates was replacing the dated green laminate with whitewashed wide plank pine flooring. Not only does it make the room feel significantly brighter and more spacious, but the natural grain adds a soft, organic texture underfoot that balances modern lines with rustic charm.

Design Details That Elevate the Space

1. Lightened Materials & Rich Texture

We said goodbye to dark finishes and introduced a fresh, modern palette. White cabinetry instantly lifted the room, paired with neutral tiles that kept the space feeling airy and timeless. To avoid a sterile look, we layered in texture and warmth:

• Floor-to-ceiling shiplap on a feature wall added richness and vertical interest.

• 1/3 wall shiplap around the remaining space created a soft, cohesive wrap.

• The whitewashed pine floors not only visually expanded the room, but added a calming, cottage-like foundation.

• Brass hardware added a touch of warmth.

• Paneled dishwasher reduced the amount of visible stainless steel.

2. Custom Wood Beam Range Hood

To anchor the space and bring contrast to the white cabinetry, we added a custom wood beam integrated into the range hood. This rustic yet refined touch softens the starkness and draws the eye upward, acting as a functional piece of art.

3. Antique Accents & Vintage Personality

No space is complete without layers of character. This kitchen is accessorized with a thoughtfully curated collection of antique tools, vintage furniture, and unique artwork—each piece telling a story and adding warmth. Whether it’s a worn wooden stool or an old copper ladle hanging on a hook, these finds balance the newness of the renovation with soul and history.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Modern and Meaningful

This transformation wasn’t just about updating materials—it was about reimagining how the space feels and functions. With smart design choices and thoughtful craftsmanship, we turned a dark 90s kitchen into a bright, open gathering place full of charm and personality.

The whitewashed pine floors, artisan cabinetry, custom wood accents, and upholstered banquette all work together to create a space that’s as beautiful as it is functional. Soft where it needs to be, efficient where it counts, and filled with stories that matter.

Here’s to kitchens that work better, feel bigger, and make you smile every time you walk in.

-Lindsey Reis

BEFORE PHOTOS (SCROLL)

AFTER PHOTOS (SCROLL)