Should I remove the high bar countertop, paint the cupboards to match the green trim, and what should I do with the kitchen floor to match the dining room?
Asked by Ronald Roberts 
8 months ago
Last Updated: May 1, 2024
I’m thinking about giving my kitchen a makeover! I definitely want to upgrade the countertops, switch up the backsplash, and get rid of that green trim on top of the cabinets. I’m on the fence about whether to take out the high bar countertop and make it even with the other counters, and if I should paint the cabinets (I assume I’d need to in order to match after removing the green trim?) and what to do with the floor (my dining room has a grayish tile while the kitchen has hardwood). Any suggestions (big or small) would be greatly appreciated! I’m not the best at making design decisions 🤪
By the way, how long is your peninsula to fit those 4 chairs so perfectly?
I would consider lowering the high bar as the seating is ideal for gatherings and it also conceals the sink. I wouldn’t want to look at dirty or drying dishes from the living room.
Definitely maintain that lovely floor! Keeping the high-top seating can also be beneficial as you age, as it becomes more challenging to rise from a standard chair.
Our kitchen features cabinets slightly lighter than yours, hardwood floors, green granite veneer with black and copper flecks, copper backsplash, black appliances, and sink – all of which were present when we bought the house. We plan to keep the beautiful floor and are considering painting the cabinets ivory, installing butcher block countertops, and changing the backsplash, in addition to upgrading to stainless steel appliances. Alternatively, we are thinking of painting the cabinets a beachy blue, using off-white quartz with a grey vein for a marble-like look, and installing an off-white herringbone backsplash. Initially considering a light sage green, we decided against it due to its popularity. With neutral cabinets and flooring, the possibilities for color schemes are endless. It might be helpful to browse through magazines or online to explore different color combinations for inspiration.
Ps – I preferred having our breakfast bar at the same level as my sink and dishwasher. We only used it for quick snacks and found it comfortable. With the high bar in this place, it’s really awkward for my husband, myself, and our little grandchild who is with us frequently, to navigate.
Just paint over everything. The excessive brown tones are overwhelming the space.
The raised bar conceals a mess.
The kitchen has a great size! Instead of completely getting rid of the green trim above the cabinets, I would suggest stripping it. Opting for a light white countertop with a bit of movement, such as granite or quartz, could be a good choice. There are so many fun backsplash options, especially since you have a small area to work with. I’d recommend keeping the cabinets natural and maybe adding a pop of color by painting the island. Removing the raised lip on the peninsula would create a more inviting and open feel. Is there a way to bring in more natural light, perhaps by changing the door in the corner to glass or installing skylights? Lowering the lights over the island and adding under-counter lighting could also enhance the space. Continuing the hardwood into the dining area and updating the faucets and hardware are other suggestions.
What a lovely kitchen design! I personally think removing the green trim would be a good idea, but only if you’re planning to paint the cabinets too. In that case, I’d try to find a paint color that matches your cabinet color as closely as possible. Changing the countertops and backsplash, adding some colorful elements like rugs, and then assessing the overall look would be my approach. It’s always easier to make more changes later, but once the cabinets are painted and the floor is replaced, it’s hard to undo. Of course, all of this is based on the assumption that you don’t absolutely hate everything about it as it is.
It looks like your stools are counter height while the upper counter is bar height. Consider replacing the stools for better comfort. Update the counters, fill and paint the cabinets for a fresh look, add under cabinet lighting, replace the pendants, and you’ll have a brand new kitchen. The floor can remain as is since it’s classic and neutral.
Let’s also update the backsplash.
I suggest keeping the cabinets and focusing on updating the backsplash, countertops, hardware, sinks, lighting, and hood. These changes will completely transform your kitchen while maintaining the classic look of your wood cabinets.
What a stunning kitchen! With just a few changes, you can really enhance the space. Consider updating the backsplash, making the bar one level, replacing the countertops, updating the sinks and faucets, and painting the cabinets a neutral color. The floors can stay as they are.
Your chairs are lovely, but they’re being overshadowed by the high countertop. Removing the high top will allow your chairs to shine and complement the kitchen decor. Consider painting the cabinets, installing a new backsplash, and refinishing the floor to match your tile. The transformation will be amazing!
And of course, we need new countertops.
I work in this field, and I have to say, lowering your countertop to cabinet level can make a huge difference in the overall look.
Your cabinets are so beautiful! I think keeping them the same color is a great idea. Changing the flooring, countertops, and backsplash would really elevate the space. Consider updating the hood over the stovetop with a navy blue or peppercorn color. A light-colored backsplash like white or cream would look fantastic. And go for a darker wood flooring, something with more variation than what’s currently there. And for the barstool counter, it’s best to get a counter that doesn’t require brackets underneath for support. Your kitchen has so much potential!
I would advise against painting those gorgeous cabinets. It might end up making them look cheap. How about some terrazzo-look flooring to add some brightness instead?
You really can’t go wrong with white subway tiles and a marble-look granite veneer for that modern touch in the kitchen. Maybe go for a counter height bar to really update the space. Removing the green trim could also make a huge difference. Consider adding two oversized pendants for a more modern look. Your cabinets and flooring seem to be in great condition! Even though I couldn’t get AI to cooperate, you can still get a good idea of how the colors will come together.
Thank you, ! It looks fantastic!