Cool in concrete

Undeterred by their lack of skills or expertise, these first-time homeowners created their dream kitchen with durable countertops and stylish open shelving.

WWhen Hennie and Mari swapped the Boland for the Garden Route in 2016, they were thrilled about purchasing their first home in the coastal town of Mossel Bay. The fact that the 40-year-old house had never been updated didn’t put a damper on their excitement, as they were keen to tackle the renovation themselves.

“In the kitchen, the cupboards were in such a dire state that we simply couldn’t restore them,” says Mari. “The previous owners had tried to salvage them by adding wallpaper on the insides, but without much success.”

The Barnards decided to rip out all the cupboards and replace them with open shelving and built-in units under the counters. The old-fashioned floor tiles also had to make way for a contemporary painted cement floor. The showstopper, however, turned out to be the new concrete countertops, which both Hennie and Mari adore.

“Although the kitchen is not yet complete as we still need to add more built-in cupboards under the counters when our budget allows, we’re pleased with what we’ve achieved so far with minimal help from contractors but lots of advice from our parents,” says Mari. >>

WHO LIVES HERE? Hennie and Mari Barnard WHERE Mossel Bay, Western Cape SIZE 14.6m² The small seating area caters for four people; it’s perfect in the semi open-plan kitchen and allows the couple to entertain while they cook. Hennie assembled and fitted all the cupboards and doors; the colour of the wrap doors is Folkstone Grey. The bin cupboard close to the sink boasts a broad handle so Mari can hang a tea towel on it. Cupboard carcasses by Boardware; doors made by Doortech Cape; pendants from MRP Home

Paint colours Cornices painted in Duram Wall Sheen in the colour Silver Side and walls painted in Duram Wall Sheen in the colour Knights Night.

A striped wall, an inexpensive DIY project, creates an interesting focal feature. Décor accessories from Beach Sand; hanging plants from Woolworths and Greenstudy

The staircase (left) to the living room located opposite the kitchen also underwent a mini makeover with a beautiful new wood and tile finish.

Proppie the rescue dog loves to help!