For awhile now we have been thinking about remodeling our kitchen. Galvanized steel countertops and poor quality veneer cabinets have to be replaced. Eventually we would also like to get new appliances. Unfortunately, kitchen remodels can be expensive, especially when looking for high quality items and materials. Using unconventional or recycled furniture in a kitchen or dining room can save you money and add character.

• 1 Venessa Zochetti is a journalist, who lives in an old toy factory with her family. We love the open layout of her kitchen. The oak cabinet with lots of drawers came from an old linen shop. The sliding-door cupboards were used as storage in the old factory.

• 2 This Parisian dining room features the original built-in cabinets. They were repainted for a modern look and are a great backdrop for the Knoll dining set. The parquet floors are also original.

• 3 We love this kitchen. Stainless steel seems in perfect harmony with the concrete walls.

• 4 A beautiful black and white kitchen. Industrial dining table offers extra countertop space and is a more flexible solution to a built-in kitchen island. The long bench creates additional seating.

• 5 This bright green kitchen has a Middle Eastern feel. It belongs to Izhar Patkin, a contemporary artist, who lives in an old school building that was restored. Professional stainless steel appliances replaced the traditional sink, stove, countertops, and cabinets. In combination with the unusual lighting and glossy hardwood floor, the space is intimate and functional at the same time.

Marie Claire Maison is a great source of ideas when looking for kitchen remodel inspirations.

Photos: Marie Claire Maison