stephmodo: Kitchen Sink Spruce Up No.2

Kitchen Sink Spruce Up No.2

• 27 February 2009




















I love discovering easy ways to improve some aspect of my living space...you know, little makeovers that only take minutes to complete but have a huge effect on your surroundings. Of all the easy makeover tips I've read over the years, this one has to be my favorite.

Because kitchens are often the gathering spots in most households, you'll enjoy the benefits of this spruce up every single day (like I do!). If you're concerned about achieving a sweet new "look for less", this is the one to tackle. And you don't need to consider yourself a "DIY'er" to handle this one.

Step 1. Remove everything from your kitchen counters that isn't used 2-3 times per week. For me that meant storing my blender in my cupboard and relocating the toaster. This one feels so good to do...talk about instant gratification!

Step 2. Find two simple glass bottles, whether they be vintage or new, and fill one with dish soap and one with liquid hand soap. I like Dawn with Bleach because of its pretty neutral color. Bright blue soap doesn't match everyone's color scheme :) My sister-in-law discovered that adding a little water to the soap makes it flow easier.

Step 3. Pick up a hardy plant (less work for you!) and a pot you'll enjoy seeing everyday. Terracotta pots, like the one pictured here, are not only inexpensive but colorful too.

Step 4. Add a natural sponge and soap dish to hold the sponge.

Voila! You have an entirely new look in your kitchen! What I love about this project (besides how easy it is) is that anyone can create a new look despite the design of their kitchen. It doesn't matter if your kitchen is new or old; or whether you have Formica or Carrara marble. You can still acquire a pretty look with just a few additions and a few relocations :) It's amazing how a simple plant, set of bottles, and big, squishy sponge can dress up an often-utilitarian space so nicely. I love it.

Sources:

Sponge: Nordstrom Rack; however, you can find something similar at other bath supply stores or even art supply stores.

Dish: TJMaxx/Homegoods

Glass Bottles: Cost Plus World Market; not near one? Check out this post for more online options.

11 comments:

  1. lovely. I have been doing the bottle for dish soap since college when it seemed very avant garde to my roomies- I used a huge old win bottle then- I just love how it looks in the window light. lovely. I love coming here and being reminded of how the everyday can be elevated. xo

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  2. I think a lovely plant like that would make me happy in the kitchen.

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  3. love it! you have inspired me to de-clutter my counters!

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  4. I'm keeping this post in mind for when I move in a few months. Thanks!

    p.s. I just saw your super duper cute self with that awesome haircut on justinhackworth.com. It's so great it may have convinced me to stop growing mine out!

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  5. That first pic is my all-time favourite Martha image! And thanks for the watering down tip - I've tried this a few times and have a great bottle to use, but the dish liquid was always a bit too thick. Thanks! :)

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  6. Thank you for motivating me, Stephanie. After I cleaned up the sink and all other counters, the kitchen looks nice again. Even my husband noticed when he came back home. ;) Have a great weekend.

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  7. Thanks for the inspiration.....I usually keep our counters clear except for a stainless-steel bread box and a really cute little watercolor painting in a gilt frame leaned against the backsplash. I put it there accidentally one day and I really love how unexpected it is there.

    Now....I could sure use some ideas for good-looking, affordable dishcloths and dishtowels. I change my dishcloth and dishtowel daily...so the affordable part is key. Any ideas?

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  8. Trish, you just gave me an idea for a future post...thanks :) Stay tuned for an answer to your question!

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  9. I love this. Isn't it amazing how little changes have such a big impact?

    I'm totally digging your blog, by the way :)

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  10. I love it! Where did you get the stoppers for the bottles?
    If my kitchen sink looked like this, I would just stand there doing dishes all day, with a dreamy look on my face...sigh...

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  11. Caitlin, I bought my bottles (stoppers included) at Cost Plus World Market. I think they were $5 each.

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Thanks so much for taking the time to drop a line. I really appreciate it!

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