When the idea of a kitchen redesign comes to mind, images of large marble slabs, islands the size of Hawaii, decadent hardwood flooring, and top-of-the-line appliances might come to mind. In spite of what you may have heard, you don’t actually need to spend thousands of dollars on a kitchen renovation to get that updated look you’ve been after. Consider these 5 simple and inexpensive design tips the next time you need to hit the refresh button on your kitchen.
1. Hardware
One easy way to keep your kitchen looking current is to install new handles and knobs on your cabinets and drawers. They are easy to install, and you can find a large selection at any home improvement store. Going for that industrial look? You might consider stainless steel hardware. If you want to give your kitchen more of a rustic cottage feel, iron pulls and knobs are the best way to go. Regardless of your kitchen’s theme or design, updating the hardware is a subtle yet perceptible way to class up your space.
2. Paint
Adding a fresh coat of paint to your walls or cabinets is a great way to transform your prep area. Whenever you’re approaching a new color scheme for your kitchen, it’s important to avoid having too much of the same color, as a completely homogenized scheme can come off as boring or too loud. For example, there is nothing wrong with having white cabinets against white walls over a white floor if your countertops, hardware, appliances or other feature pieces can somehow complement them. Painting an accent wall is another great way to add a splash of color and variety to your space without going over the top (or spending a lot of money).
3. Backsplashes
If you find you don’t have much room to paint or you’re satisfied with your current paint job, adding a simple backsplash above your stove and counter space is another way to make your kitchen unique and interesting. While some higher-end backsplash designs are most expensive, you can find a large style selection of vinyl tiles that will fit almost any design as well as your budget.
4. Faucets
Similar to updating your hardware, changing out your kitchen faucet is a simple way to add some elegance to your kitchen space. In addition to the number of contemporary designs now hitting the market, some faucets come equipped with touch or motion sense technology that allows you to activate your faucet without so much as lifting the handle. Whether you’re looking for something more traditional or are exploring more exciting options, a new faucet can really bring your kitchen into this century.
5. Lighting
Purchasing a brand new lighting fixture or rerouting your electrical wiring are not the only ways to change up the lighting in your kitchen. If you like the ambient light of under-cabinet lighting, you can easily install some stick-and-click fixtures that will highlight your counter space. You could also install rope lights above your cabinetry for a similar effect. If you absolutely need to replace your current fixture, look for something that will go with the space. For example, an oversized chandelier or low-hanging fixture probably isn’t the best choice for a cramped space.
Whatever changes you decide to make, keep your space and design at the front of your mind.
About the Author: Michael David is a freelance journalist and blogger living in New York City. Michael loves writing about DIY projects, home improvement, and garden-related topics.
Good tips!! I love the new Cascading tiles “peel & stick” …it really can spruce things up!
I have learned over the years that when changing out the faucets you want to go with a brand where replacement parts are readily available. I use Delta products now but there are others that have parts available at most hardware stores or that the plumbers usually keep on their trucks. If you don’t do this you will find yourself changing out the whole faucet more often than you really want too.
Great blog post on 5 inexpensive ways to update your kitchen. You made some great points and tips readers can definitely apply. I agree that Moen faucet is a great faucet brand and is highly recommended. Thanks for a good read.
Recently I am trying to decorate my kitchen but can not be thinking how to start to create modern kitchen instead of the old kitchen.Your article helps me much.thank you