Your kitchen may have started to look run down or dated, or maybe you simply want to give it a new look. Perhaps you want to change the style of your kitchen to something more contemporary.
While the cost of redoing your kitchen can be quite expensive, there are certain things you can do to upgrade the look without having to break the bank. Repainting your cabinetry or replacing the doors or hardware can give your kitchen a new facelift. Adding a new backsplash or lighting fixtures can also improve the look.
Even resurfacing or replacing the countertops can be within your budget depending on the materials you use. Given the range of attractive modern options, you might be surprised just how affordable this option can be.
When starting out, consider the areas of the kitchen that you feel require the most updating. It could be the flooring, the walls, the countertops, or perhaps the cabinetry. Focus your efforts on these areas first. But, keep in mind the collective look you are after for the entire kitchen.
Replace Your Cabinet Doors
People often don’t realize that refacing kitchen cabinetry without having to completely replace the cabinets is an option. Not only will it improve the look of your kitchen, but it is a more budget-friendly alternative.
Less expensive than having to fully replace the cabinets, refacing cabinetry can look just as sharp as newly installed cabinets. The trick is to make sure that your current cabinets are in good enough condition and structurally sound.
If your existing cabinet doors are solid, you can consider replacing them with doors that have glass. Both clear or opaque, such as frosted glass can work. You could even opt for a more open look and forego the glass.
Paint Your Cabinets
If replacing the cabinet doors is not an option financially, one of the quickest and easiest ways to instantly add new appeal to your kitchen is to repaint the cabinets.
The great thing about repainting your cabinets is there are limitless possibilities in terms of the colors you can use. You can even use one color for the top cabinets, and another for the bottom cabinets.
Repainting your existing cabinets can have the effect of giving your kitchen a completely new look. If your cabinets are already painted or have a varnish finish, you may need to sand them down first before repainting.
Replace the Hardware
Getting new pulls and handles for your cabinet doors is another quick and easy option. It can add new visual appeal to your kitchen. Best of all, it will barely budge your spending limit.
You may want to upgrade the handles and pulls to a more contemporary metal finish. Maybe you want to get creative and use fixtures that are more colorful or intricate in design.
One thing to look out for in order to make your life easier and require less installation work is to stick to fixtures with similar attachments. If your current hardware has two attachment holes, measure the distance and find new pieces that match.
Add a Backsplash
Apart from its functional purpose to protect against moisture, a backsplash can help add new texture and color to your kitchen walls. The area you choose to cover can vary from only in front of the sink, to a full wall.
Backsplashes have become easier than ever to install with new peel and stick versions available. Likewise, colors and materials can vary from stone to tile, glass, and even different metals with varying patterns.
Replace your Faucet or Sink
Chances are your sink is starting to look old, stained, or faded, why not replace it with a new one? You can find sinks in various materials from stainless steel to ceramic.
If replacing the sink is not currently in your budget, you can consider replacing the fixtures instead. A new faucet can make your sink area appear new.
This is an opportunity to replace your old fixtures with something more contemporary or in a material finish that you find more appealing. Find fixtures that combined well with any hardware you are replacing.
Resurface the Countertops
Believe it or not, it is possible to resurface your countertops rather than having to fully replace them. There are a variety of new materials available that look great and can work for your kitchen.
Many of these modern materials come in a finish that closely resembles natural stone and can be applied over MDF, plywood, particleboard, and other surfaces.
Another finish to consider is fine concrete mixed with spreadable stone, glass or decorative chips, and an epoxy topcoat. Other cost-efficient options include self-sticking laminate, ceramic tiles, and paint.
Add New Lighting Fixtures
New light fixtures can add a touch of elegance to your kitchen. At the same time, they provide a needed functional purpose. They are attractive and can generally be purchased and installed at a relatively low cost.
Recessed ceiling lights or LED track lighting can give a kitchen a more modern feel, while pendants or even chandeliers can help create a more traditional look.
Lighting fixtures can provide general lighting or specific task illumination. Lighting can also be added under cabinets to increase visibility on countertops or within cabinets to showcase content.
Consider Replacing Your Flooring with Vinyl
You’d be amazed how far vinyl has come along from where it was at one point in time. Available in a variety of colors and textures, it is a cost-effective alternative to natural wood, stone, or tile.
One of the more attractive types of vinyl flooring available today is the wood-look vinyl flooring plank type. Not only does it look great, but it offers many of the advantages that vinyl offers including water resistance and easy installation.
Closing Comments
Upgrading your kitchen doesn’t need to take a large bite out of your wallet. While many people love the look and feel of expensive materials, you can achieve a great deal by intelligently using alternate modern materials.
If you feel that you want to stick to natural materials such as stone or natural wood,
You can still achieve a great look if you place greater emphasis on certain elements and make more budget-conscious decisions in others. And remember, that a fresh coat of paint can go a long way in making any space or surface look fresh and new.
Share this Post