We know that not everybody has the time or budget to take on a full kitchen remodel. If that’s the case for you, but you’re sick of looking at your outdated kitchen, then these 10 tips for easy and affordable upgrades might be the change you need!
1. Install a new eye-catching backsplash
A unique backsplash can be the showpiece of your kitchen. Find some tiles that you love and that fit within your kitchen’s style. Removing and replacing a backsplash can be done easily and quickly, and can really add interest in the space. A pretty backsplash can take the attention away from other things in your kitchen that you may not love such as outdated cabinets or countertop. Just make sure that it all matches and flows together!
2. Paint or refinish existing cabinets
It’s no secret that replacing kitchen cabinetry can be expensive. If you’re dying to replace your outdated cabinets but have a limited budget, consider painting or refinishing your current ones instead. This can make a HUGE difference in the overall look of your kitchen, and costs about half the price of getting all new cabinets.
3. Upgrade your cabinet hardware
Replacing the cabinet and drawer pulls/knobs in your kitchen is one of the cheapest and easiest changes you can make. You’d be surprised how big of a difference this simple change makes in the overall look of your kitchen. Find something unique and even trendy. You can always change them out again later! Just make sure that the size of the new hardware is the same as the old, so that the nail holes don’t show.
4. Use a unique table as an island
Every kitchen, small and large, should have an island. Kitchen islands balance the space, and allow for more prep and storage space, and even an area to display yummy treats and baked goods. If you don’t have one, find a unique table that fits in your space and flows with your kitchen’s style. If limited space is an issue, find a table that has wheels and put it away somewhere else when you need the kitchen to be open.
5. Add more task lighting
Anyone who spends time in the kitchen knows that having sufficient lighting is important. This may not be the cheapest change to make, as you will have to hire an electrician or contractor, but it will definitely be worth it. Add some unique pendant lighting over an island or peninsula, some LED task lighting under the cabinets, or even just some added recessed lighting if you need it.
6. Add some open shelving with unique decorations displayed
Open shelving provides added visual interest in a kitchen, and can really open up the space when compared to typical upper cabinets. It allows you to display your favorite dishes and other kitchen décor such as cookbooks or herbs.
7. Hide your less-used appliances
If possible, find a space such as a pantry, cabinet, or kitchen island to hide away your small appliances such as a microwave, toaster oven, air-fryer ect.
8. Hang a large mirror above the sink
If you don’t have a window above your sink, hang a large mirror to emulate the feel of a window. This will make your kitchen feel bigger, and will allow you to see something other than the wall when you are washing dishes. Try to find one that even has paneling like a window!
9. Display your pots and pans on a hanging rack
Hanging your pots on a rack will clear up space in your cabinets and drawers, and allow for easy access when cooking. It can also be a really cool design feature, especially if the material of the pots matches other finishes in your kitchen.
10. Replace outdated furniture and décor with unique & interesting ones.
Furniture and decorations make as much of an impact as cabinets and backsplashes. Find some unique antique barstools, a cool rug, plants/vases, pretty dishware, or even just some artwork that you like. Make sure it all flows together and fits well within the space.