New Before and After . . .

The spring bathroom project is finally nearing completion.  All we need to do is add more towel hanging fixtures, reroute the bathroom fan to vent outside, and have fun with art work.  See the link below . . .

The Bathroom Before & After

Butcher Block Countertops . . .

Thank you IKEA!!  Although it took 2 trips to IKEA to obtain my solid beechwood counter top, I think the result looks fabulous.  Now, we will see how it holds up to the general wear and tear of a beach cabin. 

The original counter top was a close match to the existing material used by the sink and stove, however, it was not secured to the cabinet.  During our brainstorming session on "how to secure a counter top we don't really like", I ran across the pre-made butcher block tops at IKEA.  It had a a lot of pros going for it . . . it was solid wood, it came in beech and oak, the dimensions were close to perfect, and the price. 

The next step after installation was treating it with oil (something I forgot to investigate -- lucky for me I have an amazingly resourceful hubby).  So instead of another trip to IKEA for the fruitwood oil they recommend, we used food grade mineral oil . . . you know the kind found in the laxative aisle at the grocery store.  It seemed to absorb in just fine.  Here are the before and afters . . .

Before -- note "unlidded" kitchen cabinet

After -- just oiled

Overview of kitchen so far!