This “Beige Box” ’80s Kitchen Got a Polly Pocket-Inspired Makeover

Apartment Therapy

by Sarah Everett

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Amanda Davies transformed her once-bland, beige kitchen into a vibrant, eclectic space inspired by the playful designs of Polly Pocket. After participating in the One Room Challenge, she removed upper cabinetry, added open shelving, and painted her cabinets with bold, custom colors—pink, blue, and lavender—to create a fun and inviting atmosphere. The overhaul not only breathed life into the 1980s kitchen but also taught Davies valuable lessons about DIY projects, such as matching cabinet doors before painting and being prepared for unexpected setbacks like repainting cupboards after a mishap with spray sealer. The transformation began with a deep clean and the removal of unnecessary upper cabinetry, which gave the space a lighter, more airy feel. Davies then took her design to the next level by mixing custom colors: a cotton candy pink for the top cabinets, a frosted blue for the lower ones, and a lavender base that ties the room together. She also added whimsical touches like a swirly green pattern on one wall and installed marble laminate on the cabinets, which she described as an easy-to-use material. The final touch was a vintage-inspired star stencil on the floor, completing the kitchen’s playful, maximalist vibe. This project highlights how small changes, like adding open shelving or repurposing materials, can make a big impact in design. Davies’ journey emphasizes the importance of planning and being willing to experiment, even if it means learning from mistakes. Her approach is a testament to the idea that DIY projects don’t have to be perfect—what matters most is expressing personal style and creating a space that brings joy to daily activities like cooking. For anyone interested in design, this

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Originally published on Apartment Therapy on 2/13/2026