When we moved into our builder-grade home in 2020, I made it my mission to transform it into a space filled with charm, cosiness, and a touch of whimsy. My goal was to blend my love for vintage and antique pieces with practicality—without breaking the bank or hiring contractors. Here’s how I’ve added character to our kitchen while keeping things budget-friendly and DIY-focused:
1. Stained Glass Window Panel
To create a magical focal point, I hung a stained glass panel from Amazon in front of our kitchen window. While I strongly believe in supporting artists by commissioning custom pieces whenever possible (and encouraging everyone to do so if they can), I opted for a more affordable option for the time being. It’s a simple installation that brings colour, light and privacy into the space.
2. Brass Rail
Behind the range, I installed a brass rail from Target to hang my thrifted copper pans and utensils. This was an easy way to fill the space and add a vintage touch. Some worry about grease splashes, but I cook every day—our Italian-American household thrives on fried meatballs and chicken cutlets—and I’ve had no issues. I mainly use the front burners for frying, and the items on the rail are easy to wipe down if needed.
3. Backsplash Decor
I found a small shelf with peg hooks, and it’s been such a great addition to my kitchen counter. I use it to store a few essentials like my mortar and pestle, and I added a little basket to hang our fruit. To break up the white tile backsplash in our new home (since ripping it out and adding colour isn’t an option), I’ve also hung vintage framed pictures and a framed copy of a handwritten note from my kids’ great-grandmother directly on the backsplash. Adding these vintage touches has brought so much charm and warmth to the space!
4. Copper Displays
To break up the white in our kitchen, I’ve been collecting copper bakeware and pans to display. I use small picture frame nails for heavier items, but command hooks are a great alternative. These displays add warmth and ensure there’s always something interesting to look at in our kitchen. I’ve gotten most of mine at local thrift and antique stores, but Etsy, eBay and Facebook Marketplace are also great places to find some!
5. DIY Vent Hood
We replaced the large microwave above our stove with a custom vent hood. My dad helped install the vent and build the hood, while I added my touch by painting the hood with Rub 'n Buff in Gold Leaf and embellishing it with an antique brass cherub (I love cherubs!). The hood is a seasonal decor favourite—I enjoy switching out decorations throughout the year.
6. Practical Magic-Inspired Dish Cabinet
Inspired by the open plate drying cabinet in the Practical Magic movie kitchen, I created a similar look. Using square and round dowels, wood glue, a hand saw, and a drill, I built a dish rack for everyday dishes. The top shelves hold cups, bowls, and charming decor, while the back is lined with beadboard-effect wallpaper for added texture (I used double-sided tape to apply it - in case I ever change my mind). Appliques from Amazon complete the look with vintage flair.
7. Apothecary Cabinet for Tea Storage
I created a DIY apothecary cabinet to store teas. Using a base (I used two of these stacked) and adding jewellery box feet, I gave it an antique-inspired look. As a longtime Harry Potter fan, I couldn’t resist labelling the drawers with ingredients from the books, adding a little magic to our daily tea routine.
8. DIY Coffee Bar
One of my favourite spaces is the DIY coffee bar. The antique cabinet was a roadside find that I transformed with basic shelving I spray painted the black brackets gold using Rustoleum), syrup dispensers, and hooks for mugs . It’s a magical spot for my morning coffee and a fun area to decorate for different seasons.
9. Dishwasher Curtain Hack
To disguise our stainless steel dishwasher (goodbye, fingerprints!), I used a lock-seam rod and hemmed fabric to fit. This gives a French country vibe and adds softness to the space. It’s a quick, affordable project that works beautifully for us. It’s also been so fun to switch out the curtain for every season!
10. Family Heirloom Chandeliers
Chandeliers are a must for me, even in the kitchen. The chandelier over our table came from my dad’s childhood home in East Boston, and the island pendants were one of the first purchases my husband and I made over a decade ago. Each piece has a story, which makes them even more special.
Upcoming Projects
I’m planning to add wallpaper soon to bring even more charm to the space. My philosophy is that you don’t need expensive renovations to create a cozy kitchen. With paint, thrifted treasures, affordable decor, and a little creativity, you can design a space that feels magical and personal.
Every piece in our kitchen, from the copper pans to the tea cup wall planter, tells a story. When family and friends visit, it brings me so much joy to see them enjoy a cappuccino or a cup of tea surrounded by the charm and whimsy of our space. And I ALWAYS use the fine China, life’s too short!
If you’d like to see more of our home nestled in New Hampshire, please visit me on all my socials! I’d love to share more of our cosy spaces and decor inspiration with you!
Creator: Elisa
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