Sister's Kitchen Before and After

I just love before and afters.  Don't you?  There's nothing more inspiring than seeing something that could use a little help be transformed into something beautiful.   Today that something is my sister's kitchen.
The "before" of this kitchen was nothing to write home about.  The lighting, the cabinet layout, the countertops- everything needed a makeover.  And that is exactly what she and her hubby did (along with the help of his dad).  Aside from installing the countertops, they did just about everything themselves.  And I have to say, I think they did a great job! 
Before

 After

The additions include new a countertop, undermount sink, faucet, backsplash, outlet covers, cabinets and extended pantry.

Before

The kitchen seemed smaller and closed off with the overhead cabinets blocking the view and the fluorescent lights did nothing for the space.

After

The overhang cabinets are gone and more storage was created by adding cabinets to the outside of the extended counter.  They replaced the fluorescent lights with recessed lights and extended the cabinets out over the refrigerator for even more space.  They also installed a microwave above the stove (It was previously on the counter across the kitchen).  That's my little niece, Allie, in the bottom of the photo. :)

 Here's one more before of the entire space.

And now the after.

Quite a change, wouldn't you say?

And just for fun, here's a before and after of me and Mer (my sister).

Before

Crazy Hat Day at daycare - circa 1988.  We were totally rockin' those hats.

And here is us last summer at my wedding.  Doesn't Meredith look exactly the same?