It’s funny how you can look at something for years and never see the obvious. When we moved into our home 4 1/2 years ago I was bewildered by what to do with these cubbies surrounding a window in our kitchen area. It seemed obvious to display plates or knick knacks, but whatever I put in this spot looked unfinished and disheveled. We remodeled the entire kitchen (you should see the before pics!!!), except for this wall…it was the only spot that just needed a coat of paint! But for some reason, I couldn’t bring this little nook of the house together. Maybe I had to much else to work on. :/
Then a few months ago it hit me…add a rail and make these cubbies into a built in plate rack. Duh. What was I thinking all those years?
Sometimes it’s the smallest things that makes a difference! 
I hit the aisle of the hardware store in search of a molding that would blend in with the woodwork in my house. Two sticks and about $8 later I was on my way. I cut down the molding with a chop saw to fit the openings in each cubby. We used an pneumatic nail gun with finishing nails to secure the new rail (you could use a regular hammer and nails). I used a bit of wood glue for extra security. To finish the joints off I used wood spackle for a seamless joint and painted it all to match the built ins. This is before sanding and painting…
You could copy this little addition to a bookshelf or built in in your home too. It was such an easy and inexpensive upgrade that finally has these shelves making sense! The fun part comes next…styling!
I wanted a decorated space that blended in without drawing to much attention, or looking to busy. I pulled out white dishes from the cabinets for the main structure. 
Next I layered in a cutting board I had and one given to me by my amazing friend. She makes these cutting boards with her dad from reclaimed wood that they harvest from her family land in Crawford, Texas. Each one is unique and seriously stunning! You should check out her facebook page if you are interested in buying or gifting one. They are gorgeous and the story behind them is nothing short of sweet. Look at that raw wood edge, can you hear my heart pitter pattering through the screen?
The white coffee and tea pots are one of my favorite finds from the Spring Round Top Antiques Week Show. Can you believe I paid about 50¢ a piece for these cuties? 
Of course sometimes renovating and updating snowballs and one change begets another. Now that I have a purpose for this space I envision the plates changing out for the holidays, or maybe just getting seasonal accents layered in. 
That idea has me wanting to change my curtains! I love these and the 60’s vibe they add to my 60’s ranch house, but I think I am ready to move on to something more neutral. You’ll have to let me know what you think!? 
It takes time to build your style and décor and it’s a constantly moving target as trends come and go. Focusing on one little space at a time helps me not feel overwhelmed and small victories keep me going. Hopefully this tiny update will motivate you to see something you’ve looked at a million times and get a fresh new vision. Have fun putting your new ideas to work and beware of the snowball! Do you have a spot that gets you stumped? Let me know, maybe I can help think of a new twist!
What a great use of wasted space! I love your decorating style, it is fresh and clean without being minimalistic.
thanks a ton, I can’t believe how long I left them ugly, lol!
Just the perfect fix! Wow! Look how patient that wall has been waiting for you to figure it out…
Glad it was patient because that is definitely not my virtue, lol!
Great idea! Love your style. I see you have quite a few bird nest. I collect them too. I enjoy your post very much.
blessing, donna
Aren’t they incredible. I am so intrigued by nests, my kids gather them for me all the time, we have a ton around the house!
The plate racks look amazing and add so much character to the room – what a great idea! I think neutral curtains would look great in that room! Thanks for sharing….
thanks and glad you agree, I am really leaning towards a change…
I think your room is beautiful. And I especially love the cross art arrangement on the wall. I’m slightly obsessed with crosses right now, but haven’t found a way to set one up without it looking like an after thought. I just might copy your idea ????
please do! The “frame” thingy you see it in is an old fireplace surround. My friend got one this last trip to Round Top and I think she paid $40 or $60 for it, can’t remember. They are super heavy, but a great focal piece!
I love it!!!!
thanks Kristina!
All the heart eyes!
back at ya!
Love it! I love those “light bulb” moments!! Always am thankful for those idea bursts from God! 😉
He is way more creative than me that’s for sure!
Your plate racks look so perfect in your room. You were truly inspired 🙂
thanks, proof that you don’t have to have a ton of $ to pull stuff together!
The plate rack was an awesome idea! I really love it!! It looks great with the white ironstone. Calming to the room. I like your curtains too, but think that neutral curtains might be a refreshing change. Blessings!
Thanks, I am working on the curtains now!!!
Amazing how an inspired idea will float and land. Perfect. I agree about changing your curtains. Love the pillows and rug and the dark floor! Thanks for sharing. Blessings and smiles, Emilou ????
Thank you, I agree time for a change!
Oh my goodness Kim. I have a cookbook case that looks pretty much just like this. I don’t even use those cookbooks anymore. You just inspired me to empty and donate them and replace it with my pretty serving bowls that I’ve been looking for a home for. Thank you…..be safe. <3
I’m so excited this gave you that idea!!! Its gonna be awesome, use some of you cookbooks in it too!!
Looks great!! Plate racks are so functionally beautiful IMHO. Just a thought, but what about just removing the valance and leaving the space open?
Pat
Did I miss a link to the facebook page for ordering a cutting board?