I spotted this picture included in a great Houzz ideabook last week and it has me thinking. . .
This spot in our house certainly stays busy, so what if I added a little chalkboard paint under the bar for entertainment (especially while I’m making dinner)?
This area has already taken its fair share of abuse thanks to six little, kicking feet and stools constantly being shoved against it. You can even tell in the picture how chipped the bottom strip is after two years.
I had considered painting our kitchen island at one point (in a color, not with chalkboard paint) to add some interest to our kitchen. However, I’m wondering if the chalkboard-under-the-bar route may make more sense for our family.
What do you think? Would you use chalkboard paint on your kitchen cabinetry? And, just thinking far down the road here. . .do you think would this scare off a potential buyer? I would love to hear your thoughts.
I love that idea. I would go for it. Your home is beautiful I’m sure. I doubt that one little detail would scare off potential future buyers.
genius. i vote yes. that kitchen is amazing.
I would. We have a built in pantry I am thinking about chalkboarding the doors.
Go for it!!!! If you end up not liking it you could then paint the whole cabinet. I painted my kitchen cabinet “wall” back in the fall of 2010 and my kids love it (they are 14, 11, and 7)! It was so worth it :)
Your are never to old for a chalkboard!
Carolynn
http://www.charmingcarolynn.blogspot.com
In a skinny minute…and in terms of scaring off buyers…NO. they/you could always remove the paint or repaint or cover with laminate…any number of things!
I think it is a great idea. It is a small area so the potential buyer wouldn’t freak out too much. I know that if I saw it in a house I wanted to buy, I wouldn’t spaze.
Love this!!! I think it would be great!!! No I don’t think it would scare anyone off, and if it did it’s an easy fix ;)
I did a post on chalkboard paint in the kitchen last week– I think it’s inspired, especially for busy families!
I personally would not do it because mine have doube doors so I can access it from both sides, however I think chalkboard paint in the kitchen somewhere is a fun idea! If the space isn’t being used any other way why not??
Jen
I love the idea and you should definitely go for it! I would do the island, being a worrisome mom of twin toddlers, I would be worried about them popping up and hitting their heads on the counter top so I wouldn’t do it by the stools just for that reason.
I don’t think it would scare off potential buyers. Someone buying your home would most likely have a family looking for a family home. If not, it is an easy enough fix to paint over!
I love love the idea of chalkboard paint in the kitchen- I think I’d stick to a wall rather than the island though.
I like the idea alot and I think it would add a fun element to your kitchen. I’m a big believer that you shouldn’t always think about making your home yours and not worrying too much about when it comes time to sell. If you think it might hurt then simply paint the cabinet the color you were originally thinking.
Yes! Do it! I saw that Houzz ideabook too and loved that one. It’s prefect for an area like that.
I just painted a little coffee nook in my kitchen with chalkboard paint, I love it… every day I put up a new quote for my kids to read.
I am, of course, all for the chalkboard paint and honestly it was so tastefully done in your pictures. Honestly if you were to erase everything I don’t think most people would even notice it.
My vote… go for it
Go for it! Your kids will love it and dinner time will be so much easier on you.
abby
Why not? Someone could always strip it if they want to. You may want to check out this colored chalkboard paint: http://www.hudsonpaint.com/
That would be a great spot for chalk paint Emily! The kids would love it.
-Rene
Love this idea! You have the perfect spot for it.I think it would be an asset to a home sale. Keep us posted!
I think it’s a great idea. You could always cut finish plywood (or another piece of wood or MDF) and attach it to the cabinet and chalkboard paint it. That way you can always pry it off later with virtually no damage to your cabinet. Very excited to see what you do. Love your blog!
It would look great ! Also look into a good quality chalkboard vinyl it would do the same trick without being so permanent… I would paint your stools as well (maybe with black spray paint to blend in ..or another color to stand out!)
Karen
http://chalkboardartist.webs.com
Okay, I love the idea of chalkboard in a busy kitchen… I have one in mine! But I don’t like the idea of it on the island where people sit and would be rubbing their knees and clothes up against… I would maybe go for a wall or a side of the island where people wouldn’t be sitting or on a wall or door.
I would probably scare off a lot of potential buyers, if I painted a chalkboard here and then later put my house on the market I would paint over it with a color that coordinates with the room and cabinetry.
It is always an interesting balance doing what you want in a home while thinking about the possible reality of resale down the line.
Janell
I like the concept but I am not sold on the function, considering how low it is. The good thing is, you can always paint over it!
I love chalkboard paint anywhere and think that is a great spot for it. Both fun and functional! I am addicted to Houzz!
I like the idea. It’s just paint, it can always be painted again! I think you should accommodate your own style, not the style of a “potential owner.” Plus, let’s be honest, your style is to die for. Who wouldn’t like it!
Could you paint a piece of plywood and tack it over the wood? That way, if you don’t like it, it’s not permanent. AND it doesn’t scare off potential buyers.
Yes! Do it! And whatever you do, don’t paint it with regular paint. If you think it looks bad now, you can’t imagine how bad it looks when you see scuffs and scratches all over paint. (I know.) Chalkboard would hide all that.
This is SUCH a cool idea! One of those brilliant little details that makes me say to myself “why didn’t I think of that?!” I’d totally go for it. I have an island back that is crisp and new now, but will probably get abuse over the years–this would be a great and interactive way to mask the “distressing” :) Thanks!
I think it is such a great idea! Especially since you can get colored chalkboard paint now!!
I think it looks great as an accent on an island. Very fresh, even though chalkboard paint has been used everywhere! I don’t think it would scare off potential buyers because it can easily be covered with a lick of paint. It would only turn someone off who really loves natural wood and dislikes painted cabinetry in general. I would go for it!!
I saw that photo, too. I think it would look great in your home! I’d say go for it! It’d be subtle, yet whimsical and would add interest.
What a clever space for the paint. I vote yes!! Homes need to be lived in not always preparing to sell
This comment has been removed by the author.
I think that is a FANTASTIC idea! What a great area to play while you are making dinner. What a FUN place to leave little messages for your family! You could even put the day’s menu on there once in a while! Or notes to your hubby. I LOVE IT! The more I write here, the more I WANT IT!! ;o)
I love the idea, I vote yes, but paint the rest of the island too…just paint under the bar in the chalkboard paint and paint the rest of the island a dark color.
How fun for your kids, and it could be a conversation piece for when you entertain adult friends! Scare off potential buyers? Maybe, but it is just paint, you can always just paint over it when you are ready to sell (especially because you were considering painting the island to begin with!) Can’t wait to see pics!
i think chalkboard paint is cute, but it’s not my style. and i don’t mind it on easily changed things, like a wall-hanging, etc. on walls is getting out of my comfort zone, but on cabinetry in the kitchen is waay over the line.
i’m in my late 20s and looking to buy our 1st home on our next move. chalkboard paint on the cabs would def be a mark against a home i might otherwise love. here’s my thinking… i’m all about DIY, but both my husband and i are academics… meaning if you want someone to research decor, we’re down… we both def lack in the handy dandy department. i wish we were better… but i know our limitations. and in a new home, i’m happy to have some fun challenges… but this is a little more than i’d want to bargain for.
there’s my opinion. sorry if it’s a bit strong… i still love your blog, even if you choose to paint cabs with chalkboard paint :)
Do it! Pick a nice bright color and go for it!
I love it in THEORY, but I’m always worried about giant quirky changes that would affect the resale value of my house (even if I’m not lookin’ to sell…) so I think I would probably buy some great trim, and make a giant chalkboard that took up the whole space, and hang it. Same vibe, but if you go to sell, or even if YOU decide you’re over it, it’s a much easier task to remove it.
I struggle with permanent decisions like that… probably why I don’t have a tattoo as well!! ;)
Normally I’d say no to putting it on cabinets, but your space is actually perfect for it! And the color would be great. Not to mention perfect with 3 little ones.
And if it got bad looking, simply repaint, or paint over!
I actually LOVE that! And if you wanted to paint the island anyway, why not paint it all the color you wanted {gray, green, cream, whatever} and then just paint the back in chalkboard paint! :)
would the chalk and chalk dust all over the place bother you? it would bother me in the kitchen as I am already constantly picking up crumbs and spills there, it would be just one more thing to monitor…and i agree with some of the “love it in theory/not sold on function” comments. good luck!
Love your blog!
I used to have my kitchen island covered in chalkboard paint and it was fabulous! The kids loved it and i enjoyed filling it with different designs and pictures to keep it fun. The only issue was the chalk always being rubbed off by those little feet. I tried chalk markers which are great, but if the design was left on too long the marker would stain. I decided to go for a chalkboard wall instead and painted over the island…it is now cream.
Good luck and can’t wait to see what you do! I know it will be gorgeous!
Danielle
i say go for the chalkboard. it could inspire potential buyers.
I have been wondering about adding chalkboard paint to my kitchen too! Mine would be on a door. I think your kitchen would be perfect with paint in that spot and paint won’t scare off a serious buyer!
I LOVE the idea because the kids will absolutely love it and black will look great. I’m thinking about doing the whole chalkboard thing down my hallway….not sure yet. Thoughts?
I think you should. I’m sure the kids would love it. Also, Martha Stewart has a “recipe” on her website that tells you how to turn ANY paint color into chalkboard paint. This way you aren’t stuck with the few options they offer at the store and you may be able to keep stylish and practical together for this project. Good luck!
I think you should. I’m sure the kids would love it. Also, Martha Stewart has a “recipe” on her website that tells you how to turn ANY paint color into chalkboard paint. This way you aren’t stuck with the few options they offer at the store and you may be able to keep stylish and practical together for this project. Good luck!
I think you should. I’m sure the kids would love it. Also, Martha Stewart has a “recipe” on her website that tells you how to turn ANY paint color into chalkboard paint. This way you aren’t stuck with the few options they offer at the store and you may be able to keep stylish and practical together for this project. Good luck!
I think you should. I’m sure the kids would love it. Also, Martha Stewart has a “recipe” on her website that tells you how to turn ANY paint color into chalkboard paint. This way you aren’t stuck with the few options they offer at the store and you may be able to keep stylish and practical together for this project. Good luck!
I think you should. I’m sure the kids would love it. Also, Martha Stewart has a “recipe” on her website that tells you how to turn ANY paint color into chalkboard paint. This way you aren’t stuck with the few options they offer at the store and you may be able to keep stylish and practical together for this project. Good luck!
Funny! I have the exact same spot with stools that look very similar and 6 little legs that thump against the back of the counter and I’ve been contemplating doing the same thing. I hope you do it! I can’t wait to see how it turns out! I have my can of chalkboard paint just waiting to be used (but I’m too chicken to do it first, haha)
It will create some dust but for that spot I think it would be great… Very clever and contained!
i say definitely do it! i LOVE chalkboards in kitchens! we have one and my kids both love it! if you get tired of it, you can always paint over it :)
I don’t have a seperate island, but the cooking area and kitchen table are seperated by an “island”. I was considering painting the back part of it with chalkboard paint. This makes me consider it even more…
i lvoe the idea of a chalkboard in the kitchen. this space is beautiful. (so is your blog! i am a new follower!) xoxo jcd :: cornflake dreams
I vote yes on painting the kitchen cabinetry. You only live once! It would add interest to your home and be a creative outlet for your little ones.
If you’re not sure, I would research how much time, money, elbow grease would go into restoring the cabinetry and make a pro/con list. I love lists. And chalkboard paint.
http://www.turnuptherad.blogspot.com
I think you should totally GO FOR IT! Love!
I haven’t read every comment before mine, so I might be throwing a spanner in the works here when I say: enough with the chalkboard paint! :)
The dust. The mess. It’s cool to kids for awhile, but down low like that, you’re not even going to find it remotely useful if and when the kids abandon it.
Can you tell I think chalkboard paint is overdone?? :)
Oops! Forgot to address resale value. Yes, it would negatively impact your resale value because you actually have nice cabinets. If your cabinets were of a quality/condition that necessitated a makeover for the next homeowner, they probably wouldn’t be bothered by the chalkboard. However, your kitchen is gorgeous and modern. Anyone without kids (or without little kids) is going to think twice about a chalkboard there.
I love the idea. But you could also make a removeable one and attach it to the island. Then when you move, take it off and take it with you. Plywood and molding should accomplish it pretty easily. Go for it!
Personally I wouldn’t do it. And if I were looking at your house to buy I think it would be a definite strike against it. It would just be a pain to change. (Sorry to be the negative Nancy! I think you have a beautiful home!)
I think I would do it on a cabinet door or a pantry door but definitely not under a cupboard. Just think of the little feet that like to swing and hit the cupboard and how messed up it will always look. It looks great in the pictures all pristine but in reality I think it would be a mess. I do, however love the idea of a colored island!!
I love the idea. It’s a great way to have the kids in the kitchen with you but not under foot. When they are young they feel like they are helping just to be in there with you. As far as resale, it’s very neutral or can be painted over quickly. Great family idea.
Love the idea. Geat way to have the kids in the kitchen with you while you cook. Even when they are with you they feel like they are helping. I think it can be pretty neutral but you can also paint over it quickly if it was really an issue! Have fun!,
i have done the same thing in our kitchen. I love it and I know our kids will love it the older they get. I actually used a magnetic primer underneath so that the kids can put magnets on it too. I think it cost around 30 for both the primer and the paint and I still have enough for another area. You could also go the vinyl route to make it less permanent. Here is the blog post with pics of my black chalkboard island area. It was a little easier to integrate for ours since the area under the bar was not actually cabinet material but you could work it in with the trim area and start with that and do the whole thing of you wanted.
Here’s the link to the pictures! Love your blog and have enjoyed reading and seeing your projects for a while now.
http://ryanandstacybeck.blogspot.com/2011/02/my-house-dining-roomkitchen-updates.html
stacy_beck@sbcglobal.net
I painted the entire end of a cabinet, floor to ceiling in my last house in chalkboard paint. The new people that moved in after me LOVED it, however I am not so sure how it ranks with resale value. If you don’t plan on moving anytime soon, I would say GO FOR IT!
I say go for it! It’s a perfect space for it. And you can always add some beadboard under the bar area later for resale, or just repaint. I’m trying to add beadboard under my bar right now, and of course I’m having a hard time. Stupid crooked walls. :)
My first time visiting your blog…and it is just beautiful. I love this idea, I think you should do it!
I’ve always loved that image from Houzz. I believe it’s a great idea especially trying to keep the little ones busy!
We did. :) We painted all the faces of our kitchen cabinets with black chalkboard paint. It’s been great! Easy to make lists, spontaneously draw pictures or write silly things. We definitely like it!
just read all the comments out of curiosity and here is my kitchen designer/mom opinion!
1. i think it would look better to paint the existing cabinetry than try to attach a separate piece onto the back – if it ever needed to be removed for future resale, laminate with a new piece of wood. that’s relatively easy to do. but honestly, since chalkboard paint comes in lots of diff. colors, i don’t think it would ever need to be removed or changed for resale. a potential buyer may not even know it was chalkboard paint unless they were informed!
2. love the idea of adding the magnetic primer!! a second activity, plus you can hang an eraser and a cup to store the chalk in – keep it organized with magnets.
3. as far as mess, i could see that as being a downside… but the nice thing about a chalkboard is the mess is easily removed with a wet papertowel (for company or a dinner party etc…) question is: are you the type of person that would be bothered by the mess and are you willing to get down and wipe it every day? personally it wouldn’t bother me too much – depends on how visible the back of the penninsula is to the rest of the house.
i have always loved the idea of a chalkboard somewhere in the kitchen. and chalkboard paint makes choosing a location virtually limitless!
Our traditional chalkboard is a bit messy.
I just saw this brief blog post regarding “dustless chalk”. Check out her pantry makeover while you are there.
http://honeyandfitz.blogspot.com/2011/02/dustless-chalk-is-decidedly-not.html
A friend of mine likes the chalk markers.
As Katie mentioned, the dust thing is an issue but we have a large chalkboard we created on a wall in our kitchen and it’s not totally unmanageable. I did make the switch to the chalk markers though for this reason. Regarding resale – I think Janell is right…a lot of buyers would look at that and not be able to wrap their brain around how to get it off, etc. Have you considered using chalk Wallies? They are a repositionable chalk contact paper. I blogged about them here and it sounds like it might be the perfect, non-permanent solution to your issue.
http://honeyandfitz.blogspot.com/2011/01/chalkboard-contact-paper.html
I took the chalkboard plunge this past weekend. Here’s my kitchen chalkboard…
http://fisilis.wordpress.com/2011/03/17/how-to-paint-a-chalkboard-wall/
The idea for chalkboard paint in any room of the house is brilliant. I even found this great website http://www.hudsonpaint.com which allows to have this chalkboard paint idea, in color. The things you can do with this paint is endless, and the fact that they have about 28 different colors to choose from is great. These colors liven any room, and are fabulous.