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Organic Modern Neutral Kitchen Design

It’s been awhile since I threw my hat into the One Room Challenge ring, but I’m so excited to join the fun in my new house. I’ve been tackling a few smaller projects since I moved here a few months ago (like my black fireplace and closet nook) but I’m really excited to take on my kitchen update! This house is a quirky 1930’s bungalow with some really fun characteristics but lost some of it’s charm over the years. It’s also craving for functionality so I’m hoping to add both with my Organic Modern Neutral Kitchen Design.

outdated kitchen with oak cabinets before painting
kitchen before

For this kitchen remodel, I’m leaning into an organic modern neutral style because it blends everything I love—clean lines, natural textures, and a timeless colors. I want the space to feel fresh and modern without being cold, so mixing in warm woods, texture, and contrast helps create that perfect balance. This is my general go to style and I’m excited to see it come to life here. Ok, let’s get into it all the things on the list to get this kitchen updated!

Neutral Kitchen Design To-Do List

  1. Demolish outdated tiled countertops & back splash
  2. Remove some of the upper cabinets – not functional in an awkward corner
  3. Replace countertops with Silestone Consentino in Et Statuario in Suede finish
  4. Replace sink with Blanco Silgranit in Cinder (update: see my favorite black kitchen sink installed)
  5. Paint cabinet bases with Sherwin Williams Iron Ore
  6. Reface cabinet doors & drawer fronts
  7. Update kitchen stove with Kitchen Aid Gas Stove
  8. Install tile back splash and entire wall (I haven’t decided yet, but I wrote before about Alternatives to White Subway Tile)
  9. Mount oak wood shelves for floating shelving with Black Brackets (p.s. this is my brother’s bracket business and I work with him there!)
  10. Replace light above sink with cute pendant light – I’m undecided but this one is a good option!
  11. Style with plants and new artwork
old kitchen with oak cabinets

These photos from the real estate listing really have the kitchen looking it’s best, but it’s definitely still outdated and tired. Because it’s a small space in an old house, I’m not changing the footprint (who knows what you’ll find when you start ripping things up!) but am looking to add more function and updated finishes.

I’m really looking forward to ripping out those cabinets and adding in shelves. Check out my Guide to Making Wood Shelves from the shelving I created in our last home.

outdated kitchen

The cabinets are solid wood but that orangey oak that is past its prime. Because they are in good shape, I’m keeping the cabinet bases and will updated them with paint, new doors, and hardware! Even just changing the cabinet hardware would be a huge upgrade. It’s on my list of Easy Home Projects Under $200.

Kitchen Sources:

neutral kitchen design elements
neutral kitchen design board

Slide through and click to shop:

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited to finally dive into this kitchen project and share it with the amazing One Room Challenge (ORC) community! It’s been a while since I joined in, and tackling this space in my quirky 1930s bungalow feels like the perfect way to jump back in. While I’ve done a few smaller updates around the house already, this kitchen is definitely the heart of the home—and it’s time it reflects the style, warmth, and function I want for this next chapter.

Choosing an organic modern neutral kitchen design will mix timeless materials with natural textures and create a space that feels both modern and cozy. I’m keeping the footprint the same but updating every surface for maximum impact—goodbye orange oak, hello sleek quartz and warm wood shelves! I hope this process inspires you, whether you’re also working with a small kitchen, navigating an old home, or just dreaming up your next project.

Want to see the final project? Jump ahead to see all the details on this Small Kitchen Remodel Before & After.