Create a Killer Kitchen: 10 Tips for Updating Your Kitchen
Changes to your kitchen can dramatically increase the value of your home. Even if you don’t have any plans to sell your house in the near future, it’s still worth making some minor updates so that you have less to do when the time to sell does come around.
While kitchen updates are highly lucrative, they can also be stressful. This is especially true if you’re new to the remodeling and redecorating world.
Whether you’re working with a limited budget or simply don’t know where to begin, listed below are some great tips to help you get started and feel less overwhelmed.
10 Tips for Creating a Killer Kitchen
-
Update the Floors
New floors can make all the difference to an old, outdated kitchen. If you’ve had the same linoleum for years, try updating to tile.
If you’re not ready to rip up the floors altogether, consider re-staining or repainting your floors instead. If you have old wood floors that are still in relatively good shape, this is a great way to revamp them without breaking the bank.
Blue and pale grey are great options that will make your kitchen look a little more modern. Avoid white, though, unless you and your family are unnaturally clean people.
-
Add More Storage
Who doesn’t want more storage in their kitchen? If you’re planning to stay in your house for a while, you’ll appreciate the extra space. And, if you’re going to sell soon, potential buyers will see additional storage as a major bonus.
One of the easiest ways to increase the storage space in your kitchen is to add simple wood shelves.
These shelves are easy to install and add plenty of functional display space. They’re perfect for showing off cute dishes or keeping everyday small appliances within easy reach.
-
Change Your Hardware
Another way to subtly enhance the appearance of your kitchen is to consider replacing your hardware (cabinet handles, knobs of drawers, etc.)
This update is also very affordable, as long as you pay attention to the price of the new hardware, of course.
This shouldn’t be too hard to do. There are lots of attractive pieces out there that are less than $10 apiece.
Be sure to count the number of knobs and pulls in your kitchen before you head to the store. That way, you won’t have to make multiple trips to be able to replace all the hardware in your kitchen.
-
Add New Window Treatments
To easily brighten up your kitchen without a lot of labor, consider hanging new window treatments. Some brightly colored curtains can make a big difference in the kitchen’s overall look and feel.
If you’re hanging curtains over the window above the sink, be sure to choose ones that don’t have a lot of extra fabric. Consider something like a Roman shade that can easily be pulled up when you’re washing dishes. That way, you don’t have to worry about splashing and damaging the fabric.
-
Repaint Your Cabinets
Repainting your cabinets is a great way to change the look of your kitchen without doing a total remodel.
Paint your cabinets a color that compliments your countertop and other appliances. For example, if your countertop is black, you might want to use light gray or white for the cabinets. You can also do a fun, bright color like lime green or yellow if you really want to brighten things up.
If you need help choosing paint or doing the actual painting, consider hiring a business like this company to help you get things done as quickly as possible.
-
Add a Backsplash or Accent Wall
Another way to add a pop of color is to add a backsplash or paint an accent wall. Both of these options add some excitement to a drab kitchen.
They’re also easy and affordable. You can even use stick-on wallpaper or paint to change the look of your kitchen without making any lasting changes — this is perfect for renters.
-
Invest in New Lighting
New lighting can make all the difference to a dark, dreary kitchen. Look for a big, bright lighting fixture that breathes new life into your space and makes you excited to cook again.
-
Add an Island
If you have the bandwidth to handle a bigger project, consider adding an island. Kitchen islands are a great selling point for potential buyers, and they also provide you with a lot of functional space.
You’ll be able to store dishes or small appliances underneath, and they provide you with additional seating. You’ll love having more room to prepare meals, too.
-
Change Your Countertop
An updated kitchen countertop is similar to updated kitchen cabinets. It can dramatically improve the appearance and make it look like you had a total renovation.
When it comes to updating your countertop, granite and marble are great choices. They won’t scratch, they’re more resistant to stains, and they’re easy to clean. What’s not to love?
-
Update Your Appliances
Another big update — but one that you’ll appreciate later on — is to update your kitchen appliances. This one definitely isn’t going to come cheap. But, you may end up saving a lot of money further down the road, especially if you invest in energy-efficient appliances.
Most new refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers are designed to use less electricity and water, which is great for your wallet and the environment.
You may also find that you’re more inclined to use your kitchen once you’ve spent the money to switch to appliances that work properly and help you save money!
Looking for More Advice on Kitchen Updates?
As you can see, kitchen updates don’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. Sometimes, simple changes like freshly painted cabinets or a new lighting fixture can totally revamp the space.
Once you’ve tackled your kitchen, you might be ready to take on other areas of your home and give them an upgrade. When that time comes, be sure to check out the home improvement section of our site.
We have tons of tips and tricks available that will help guide you through the process of updating any room.
