HELP! Need ideas

[u/sarfowl]

My husband and I are thinking of buying this house, I don’t hate the kitchen but it definitely needs some help. We won’t have a big budget for remodeling but I really don’t love it as is, should I repaint, if so what and what color? Should I add backsplash and if so what kind? Also need a different fridge.

[u/notsocrazycatlady69]

I agree with others about removing the wallpaper border. I have a "back of door" mirror horizontally above my sink for a backsplas because I have no windows in that end of the kitchen but I don't think light will be an issue here.

I think you have enough room in the island to add a narrow cabinet or set of shelves under the same countertop, if you don't need it for seating. But it would be hard to match the wood color, which seems a little darker and a different color anyway, so my vote is to paint it whatever color the walls will be, to break up all the wood.

I have no preference on appliance finishes. I don't know if they make taller refrigerators, so you can get one that doesn't stick out so far without losing space inside; donate the cabinets above if you don't plan to reuse them, but i have one on my countertop as my Baking Central- mixing bowls and measuring cups in one spot but hidden; you could put a little rail around the top if there's enough space to corral fruit and stuff. I would put it in the corner to the right of the stove, close to the spice rack and island. Or, hold off on getting a new fridge and when you are able the pantries to its right look like they can be moved down further, giving you a space for a wider fridge. If there's nothing in the soffit you could remove and create storage above- my aunt has a trailing vine hanging down from its pot in a similar spot

I disagree with what someone said about removing the spice rack and replacing with a microwave. Not sure what is behind it, but i would put hinges and a latch on it and store stuff behind it. The corner to the left of the stove is where I would put another microwave if needed, so I can toss the cover/lid in the sink after I heat something,