When I mention to people that I want to use butcherblock countertops in my kitchen, I always get that look, with the inevitable question, “Are you sure you want to do that?” And then follows a long laundry list of reasons why the person believes I should rethink my decision.
So I was very happy to hear from Melinda of Pure Home, who not only grew up with butcherblock countertops, but also used them in her own kitchen remodel.
Here’s the before of Melinda’s kitchen (taken before she owned the home):
And here’s the dramatic “after”:
She’s not quite done with the remodel, as they still want to add recessed lighting and beadboard on the ceiling (amazing!!). But that’s quite a change, huh? I love how light and airy it is, and those two unique pendant lights really steal the show. The countertops are gorgeous as well, and the mix of butcherblock around the perimeter and honed marble on the island is a nice combination. I also really like the open shelving along the back wall. I had initially planned on open shelving in my own kitchen, but I learned very quickly that that’s not an option for me because of this:
Mmmmm…now doesn’t that make you want to come to my house for dinner? 
Needless to say, we don’t use that cabinet now, and won’t until I get the doors back on.
Thank you so much, Melinda, for sharing your kitchen with us!!
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I'm a self-employed interior decorator-turned-blogger, and a DIY fanatic. I hope you enjoy your visit here at A2D! If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to 
Hi there! I just featured one of your projects on my blog! C'mon over and check it out!
WOW its awesome design.I am thinking to go for some of designs for to embed with my existing kitchen…
Hi Kristi,
Thanks so much for the nice compliments. Keep up with the drudgery of sand and paint. Can't wait to see the finished product.
Your cat cracks me up! Mine would so do the same. I guess I'll never have open cabinetry either
Love the kitchen remodel!
Such an amazing makeover – gorgeous! And, kitty's so sweet, too
I have decided that I want to paint our kitchen cabinets white. What is a good product to make the paint stick to current cabinets with a coating on them? The cat in the cabinet is priceless lol. Thanks for showing.
Places like Home Depot and Lowe's sell a product called liquid sander. I've never used it, so I can't tell you if I would recommend it or not. I generally use a power sander to remove the shiny layer and give the surface some "tooth". After that, you'll want to use at least one coat of a quality primer. I always use latex Kilz. It comes in an oil-base also, but there's no need to go to the trouble.
BUT…I always, always, ALWAYS, recommend using an oil-based paint on kitchen cabinets. My favorite brand of oil-based paint is Kelly Moore.
Hope that helps! And if you decide to take the dive and start the project, I'm going to have Progress Report Mondays, starting this next Monday, for those of us with large projects. We'll be able to share our progress and cheer each other on in our progress.
Maybe if you put baskets or some other containers to fill the space on the bottom shelf, your cat wouldn't be able to get into it?
Just a thought? I have a cat too. ☺
AHAHAHA i love the picture with the cat its so adorable! Love the look of the kitchentoo
I have decided that I want to paint our kitchen cabinets white. What is a good product to make the paint stick to current cabinets with a coating on them? The cat in the cabinet is priceless lol. Thanks for showing.
WOW its awesome design.I am thinking to go for some of designs for to embed with my existing kitchen…
This post is sample for marvelous, gorgeous, and artful designing.
Because in this post kitchen hall itself seems to be like glorious
chamber. All because of creative designing, marvelous painting, and
wood and metal furniture so classic. We can’t imagine like this great
and elegant look.