French Quarter-Inspired Kitchen

The Solution
The walls are primed and painted a rich, two-tone Merlot color. New Roman shades cover the windows, and a custom suspended wrought-iron light box hides the unattractive fluorescent light. The last project to complete the transformation involves stripping out the shelving in the cabinet underneath the bay window. A faux brick interior, new paint and new barstools create a mini breakfast bar with a stunning view of the backyard.

The Cost:

Paint and supplies – $160

• one gallon Minwax gel stain for cupboards, 76078, $8.84 each – Lowe's
  
• one gallon American Traditions paint, 144509, $21.94 each – Lowe's
  
• two gallons American Traditions paint, 144513, $21.94 each – Lowe's
  
• two gallons American Traditions paint, custom color, $21.94 each – Lowe's

Cabinet appliqués – $40

• wooden appliqués, $5 each – Superior Mouldings

Wine nook – $60

• wine rack, 000000030298, $19.99 – Cost Plus World Market

Wine glass rack – $20

• glass rack, $19.99 – Cost Plus World Market

Breakfast bar – $125

• brick board for breakfast bar, 4' x 8', $25 each – Lowe's

Stools – $50

• stool, birch, $19.99 each – Linens 'N Things

Window treatments – $110

Lighting – $110

• glass globe, $5 – Lowe's
  
• fleur de lis wrought-iron grille for light cover, $25 – Marshalls

Clock and plates - $40

• clock plate, $8.99 – Marshalls

Accessories – $170

• accessories, vases, dishes, cutting board, spices, etc. – Marshalls

Plants and rugs – $108

• rug, Soft Step, 010892454768, black/beige, 30" x 50", $29.99 – Linens 'N Things

Total – $993