The homeowner’s family had been living in their condominium unit for five years, and during that time, their kitchen was on a steady decline. The kitchen countertops, which were made of inexpensive laminate on a wood base, were starting to rot. They thus thought it was time for a proper kitchen makeover.

Real Living brought in Samantha Hontiveros—who specializes in kitchen design—and Leah Rosal, both from smth/designs. They surveyed the family’s kitchen and decided that three main things had to go: the old countertop, the unwieldy white range hood which came with the condo unit, and the dated floral tile borders running across the kitchen wall. Collaborating with the owners, they gave the typical condo kitchen a much-needed update.

Browse through the gallery to see how the makeover turned out.

Get more home makeover ideas from the November issue of Real Living Philippines, out on stands now! You can also subscribe to the magazine's digital edition.

Also in the issue:

Save the Planet!
Fresh and Airy Homes!
Family Homes Special

(First published as "Counter Attack!" in the "Real Makeover" section of Real Living Philippines' August 2008 issue. Words by Tisha Alvarez. Styling by Issa Villar. Photography by Jun Pinzon. Adapted for use in Female Network.)