See How a Signature Blue Tile Transformed a Boring Beige Kitchen

High school sweethearts and parents of two Lisa and Kenny made great strides in renovating their home when they first bought it, but with busy careers in the music industry things stalled as life got in the way. Now, with a little nest egg of savings and the need for a family friendly kitchen, they’ve enlisted the help of designer Sabrina Smelko and contractor Sebastian Clovis. Here’s how the dynamic duo managed to bring this kitchen in at thousands less than the other quotes, while also convincing the homeowners to embrace a pop of modern colour or two.

1 / 10

Before: Dull and Beige

There was absolutely no colour going on in this kitchen before Sabrina and Sebastian got their hands on it. A tired backsplash, old cabinets and a dysfunctional island left these homeowners completely frustrated.

2 / 10

Before: A Cramped Style

Despite the open concept layout of the kitchen and living room, the space didn’t feel maximized or warm. Instead it felt haphazard and awkward — especially the island, which featured no actual seating potential thanks to the lack of an overhang.

3 / 10

After: A Pretty Blue

Bright new cabinets, updated appliances, a new countertop and some colour in the backsplash completely transform this kitchen into a gorgeous new space for thousands less than it would have cost had the homeowners called in other professionals.

4 / 10

After: Hues of Blue

This pretty blue backsplash was just the right amount of colour for the colour-wary homeowners. Its unique design is modern and eye-catching, and pops when paired with the bright white finishes featured elsewhere.

5 / 10

After: A Bargain Finish

Okay so the homeowners liked some colour, namely in this rich red runner. A great Sabrina tip? Always try to secure the floor model. Not only will it be ticketed at a much lower price, but the fact that the item is gently used means it comes with extra character.

6 / 10

After: A Gorgeous Island

These homeowners wanted a new island and boy did they get it. Just look at all of the storage space (not to mention a built-in microwave) that this unit has. The best part? Lots of space for prep AND extra seating.

7 / 10

After: A Whole New Space

Check out the kitchen from this angle: it feels modern, bright and welcoming for thousands of dollars less than it should have cost. Another great way the homeowners saved a few bucks? Prefab cabinetry: it’s always a good bet when you’re looking to trim extra expenses.

8 / 10

After: A Touch of Copper

Gold was too much for these homeowners and Sabrina agreed that it felt to showy in their case. But she did manage to talk them into these gorgeous copper stools, which feel warm and elegant. The best part? She got them at a steal thanks to a little bargain hunting.

9 / 10

After: Pretty Blues

Speaking of bargain hunting, these designer chairs were hundreds off the original price tag, and added up to more than $1600 in total savings. Add in a pretty blue throw rug and fresh paint on the door, and this space feels cohesive and brand spanking new.

10 / 10

After: A Pantry Nook

It’s incredible what a little wallpaper and some floating shelves can do to a space, but the real talking point here is the DIY project Sabrina conceptualized: a fully functioning, wireless speaker. Now that’s how you make the hearts of homeowners — who just so happen to work in the music industry — sing.