help! what color should i paint my new kitchen counter

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I have a great kitchen for a New York City apartment. It’s a decent size, got lots of cabinets (for which I’m still trying to find the perfect knobs) plus a new refrigerator and stove. I even have room for a little round table and chairs in one corner… well, sort of. I realized recently that after eight months of living in my apartment I had eaten at my table only a handful of times. (I know, I know sitting in front of the TV is not a proper place for dinner, but when you live alone sitting at a table solo can seem so…well lonely.) I decided about a month ago that I wanted to rid my kitchen of the table and chairs and install a space saving counter.

I purchased a piece of wood from a local lumber yard for a mere $30 and had it cut to the desired length. I asked them to round off one edge but was unfortunately shot down on that request being told, “we don’t do that here.” (”What, cut wood?” They didn’t like that comment either.) So with a borrowed hand saw and some sandpaper I put my boyfriend to work (just kidding, he offered to help) and we cut the counter top to my exact specifications.

Mounting it turned out to be no easy task. You really never know what’s behind the wall in a NY City apartment. One wall was hollow, the next backed by concrete. After two trips to the hardware store we found the right equipment for the job and I’m happy to say I have perfect working counter top today.

Now, all I need to do lay a coat of paint. I have a great turquoise wall perpendicular to where the counter is mounted so I was thinking a contrasting red might be nice (red and turquoise is one of my favorite color combos). Any suggestions? — Erica P.


6 Responses to “help! what color should i paint my new kitchen counter”

  1. BlueHillGold Says:

    Erica,

    The new counter looks great and will certainly save you a ton of space. Personally I have always preferred a more natural look and finish for wood products. Have you considered using a stain instead of paint? Do you have other exposed wood in the apartment that would suggest a complimentary color scheme? With your turquoise wall and the lighter base colors, I’m thinking that a rich, brown stain would be a nice fit.

    Hope to see the finished product in your next posting.

  2. IBA Says:

    The counter looks amazing, Erica. Your boyfriend must be incredible. Good catch, good catch.

  3. ellobie in Chicago Says:

    I agree with the stain idea, but I would use a vibrant color to add some kick to that white wall. I love the idea of turquoise + red, what about a bright red stain?

  4. Rocky Says:

    can i see a more pull-back picture of the kitchen? i think it’s always better to pick a color that goes with the space, rather than making a random choice.

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