Making small changes to your kitchen can often have a big impact. With just a little bit of effort and creativity, there are plenty of easy and affordable kitchen touches that anyone can do to upgrade the look and functionality of this important living space. From a fresh coat of paint to new cabinet hardware, let’s explore some of the top kitchen touches anyone can tackle.
Refresh the Paint
One of the easiest ways to breathe new life into a kitchen is with a fresh coat of paint. Even if you don’t make any other changes, new paint can make your cabinets, walls, and trim look updated and clean.
When choosing a new paint color, opt for neutral, lighter tones like soft whites and grays to keep things bright and airy. Cool undertones like blue-gray work well for a more modern vibe. And don’t forget the ceiling – painting it the same color as the walls makes the whole space feel seamless.
Look for high-quality cabinet and trim paint to give your millwork the smoothest, most durable finish. And take the time to properly prep and prime the surfaces before painting – this will ensure the paint adheres properly and provide the best looking end result.
Update the Hardware
Replacing tired old hardware is one of the easiest ways to give your kitchen an instant facelift. New knobs and pulls can completely change the look of your cabinets with just a simple swap.
Opt for hardware that matches your kitchen’s style – go for sleek, modern handles in matte black for a contemporary vibe or carved wood knobs for a farmhouse feel. Brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze offer an elegant, timeless look.
When choosing new hardware, make sure the scale is proportionate to your cabinets – oversized hardware can look gaudy. And stick to one consistent finish throughout the kitchen for a cohesive appearance.
Changing the hardware on drawers and appliances can make a big impact too. New knobs and handles on the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher and more will look crisp and custom.
Open up with Glass Doors
Making small changes to your kitchen can often have a big impact. With just a little bit of effort and creativity, there are plenty of easy and affordable kitchen touches that anyone can do to upgrade the look and functionality of this important living space. From a fresh coat of paint to new cabinet hardware, let’s explore some of the top kitchen touches anyone can tackle.
Swapping solid cabinet doors for glass transforms closed storage into open, visible display space. The transparency of glass doors makes a kitchen feel more open and airier. Glass-front cabinets are great for showing off your best dishware, collectibles or pretty cooking wares.
Look for glass doors with a simple frame to match your kitchen’s style. Install interior lighting to illuminate and highlight what’s inside. And keep the contents edited and styled – a cluttered glass cabinet defeats the purpose.
Glass door cabinets are especially nice above the sink, refrigerator, around the oven and anywhere you tend to collect small appliances and cooking tools. Keep everyday, less attractive items concealed behind solid doors.
Build Open Shelving
Another way to create an airy, open feel is by adding open shelving. Exposed shelves give you pretty display space for glassware, dishes or decorative items without the expense of new cabinetry.
Keep the look light and airy by limiting the amount of shelving and carefully styling the contents. Stick to a reasonable number of items – cluttered open shelves can make a space feel chaotic.
Look for wall-mounted shelving kits or brackets at your local home improvement store. Wood, metal and glass materials all work well for an attractive, custom look. Lighting built into the underside of shelves illuminates your displayed items beautifully.
Strategically place new open shelving. Above the sink provides perfect space for glassware. Beside the stove is ideal for oils, spices and cooking tools. And near the fridge makes a great coffee station.
Change Your Backsplash
The backsplash makes a major visual impact in any kitchen. Swapping out old or dated tile for a new backsplash can instantly modernize the whole space.
Stick to natural stone like marble or travertine for a timeless, elegant look. Or make a statement with bold patterns and bright colors. There are endless backsplash tile options available from hardware stores these days.
Focus your new backsplash in the main work area behind the stove and sink. Contrast your countertop and tile colors for maximum effect. And don’t be afraid to mix materials – combine glass, stone and metal mosaic tiles in an eclectic patchwork.
DIY backsplash installation is totally doable for most homeowners. Just make sure your surface is properly prepped. Watch online tutorials to guide you through the process.
Install a Tile Floor
Upgrading the flooring is another way to completely transform the look of your kitchen. Swapping out worn vinyl or dated laminate for new tile flooring makes a huge impact.
Ceramic and porcelain tile floors are durable, water-resistant and easy to maintain – perfect for high-traffic kitchen areas. Grout lines between the tile also hide dirt well.
Choose tile with texture and variegated colors for a high-end look. Or opt for a classic subway tile pattern. Mix and match tile sizes, lay them in a fun herringbone pattern or a simple brick layout.
Make sure your tile is slip resistant, especially if you choose polished porcelain or marble which can be slippery. A thoughtful flooring choice can make your kitchen both beautiful and safe.
Add Pendant Lighting
Proper kitchen lighting serves both form and function. But pendant lights hanging above kitchen islands and countertops add focal style as well.
Glass, metal and orb-shaped pendants look sleek and modern. For a rustic vibe try lantern-style fixtures. Or go ultra contemporary with sculptural mid-century pendants.
Make sure new pendant lights are high enough to not obstruct daily prep work on the counters below. Their height combined with task lighting keeps workspaces fully illuminated.
Aim for 3-5 pendant lights hanging in a linear formation for the best look. Oversized single pendants can also make an attractive statement. Mix up pendant sizes, shapes and finishes for an eclectic look.
Install a Backsplash Shelf
Backsplash shelves or floating shelves add both form and function above the countertop. This display space is ideal for pretty dishes, oils and spices or keeping cooking tools in easy reach.
Look for wall-mounted shelf brackets or rails available in a variety of materials like wood, metal and glass. Install the shelf properly into wall studs for sturdy support.
Keep items on the shelf minimal and well organized. A cluttered backsplash shelf defeats its purpose and makes your kitchen feel messy. Use bins, trays and jars to corral small items out of sight.
Consider open shelves above non-cooking countertops like islands and peninsulas. Shelves around the stove and sink tend to collect grease and require frequent wiping. Place delicate glassware out of harm’s way.
Upgrade Kitchen Appliances
Replacing major kitchen appliances gives the whole room an instant update. From stoves and refrigerators to dishwashers and microwaves, new appliances make cooking and cleaning easier and more enjoyable.
Look for energy efficient models with smart features and technology. Brushed stainless steel dominates today’s appliance trends but there are options like black stainless, white and panel-ready models too.
When buying new, think about how each appliance fits into your overall kitchen design. Their size, shape, color and finish should complement the rest of the aesthetic.
While investing in new major appliances is one of the pricier upgrades, it can instantly modernize the heart of your home in one fell swoop. Don’t underestimate their transformative power.
Add Under Cabinet Lighting
Task lighting is important in kitchens for illuminating cooking and prep surfaces properly. But accent lighting adds style and dimension to the space.
Under cabinet lighting casts a useful glow right where you need it most – on the countertops and backsplashes. The ambient lighting also adds polish with a hidden light source.
LED strip lights mount easily under cabinets and drawers. Look for self-adhesive options or small magnetic pucks to secure them in place. Link multiple lights together for a seamless run.
Use dimmers or smart controls to adjust the cabinet lighting brightness. Keep them on bright for cooking tasks, then lower for soft mood lighting. The options are extremely versatile.
Accent your finest display cabinets and glass door fronts to spotlight pretty dishware and glassware. The right lighting truly makes details shine.
Remove Upper Cabinets Completely
For a dramatically different look, consider removing upper cabinets altogether to create an open, unfussy appearance. This on-trend look works especially well in small kitchens.
Taking uppers down gives you more room for statement shelving, artwork or windows to fill the new void. You can always add functional open shelves in place of cabinetry if needed.
Keep clutter tidy and out of sight. Without cabinet doors, everything left out on countertops remains visible. So embrace a minimalist, organized aesthetic to keep the open look serene.
Removing upper cabinets is a major change that requires remodeling labor. But if your kitchen layout has excessive rows of uppers or limited space, it may be just the update you need.
Freshen Up the Faucet
The kitchen faucet sees constant daily use, and an old leaky faucet can make the whole room feel shabby. Installing a new faucet instantly upgrades both form and function.
Look for high-performance faucets with handy features like pull-down sprayers, temperature control and auto-off functionality. Touchless faucets are ideal for sanitary, mess-free usage.
In terms of style, faucets come in a range of finishes like brushed nickel, polished chrome, matte black and more. Select a finish that integrates into your overall kitchen design scheme.
Replacing an old faucet yourself is generally a manageable DIY project, even for novice homeowners. Just turn off the water supply lines and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Add a Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are extremely popular additions for their expanded countertop workspace and storage. Islands also become natural gathering spots in open floor plan homes.
Focus on function – make sure your island layout includes adequate counter area for meal prep, tall stools for casual dining and cabinets for concealed storage. Built-in appliances like sinks, cooktops and dishwashers also maximize an island’s utility if space allows.
Style your island to coordinate with your existing cabinetry, countertops and backsplash. Or make it pop as a bold standout focal point in a contrasting finish. Just make sure it fits within the overall kitchen design aesthetic.
Kitchen islands require significant construction, electrical and plumbing work if adding appliances. But even a simple freestanding island makes a major functional and visual difference.
Update Countertops
Replacing worn laminate or dated solid surface countertops is one of the most dramatic upgrades you can make. Natural stone and quartz are popular choices that instantly elevate a kitchen’s high-traffic work area.
Timeless options like white Carrara marble and gray soapstone have an organic elegance. Durable quartz counters mimic luxury stone at a lower price point. There are endless unique quartz patterns and colors to match any style.
When choosing new countertops, consider your usage – avoid delicate marble around the sink and stove where it can stain. Visit home improvement stores to view full slabs and edge profiles up close. And don’t forget overhangs for bar seating.
While a major renovation project, installing new countertops makes a huge impact by literally covering the most surface area. This single change leaves your kitchen looking fresh and totally transformed.
Use Removable Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick removable wallpaper allows you to redecorate easily and frequently. Use it sparingly to refresh a backsplash, accent wall or containers. Limiting the amount keeps the look fresh versus overwhelming.
Graphic, geometric and floral patterns add eye-catching detail, especially on a neutral backdrop. Black and white designs feel modern and tailored. Try citrus prints or herbs for a cheerful cottage vibe.
Measure the surface and cut pieces precisely to size. Watch online tutorials to properly install, avoiding bubbling and wrinkles in the material. Start with a clean, smooth and dry surface for best adhesion.
Removable wallpaper removes cleanly when ready for a change. Use it to temporarily test drive daring colors or prints without long-term commitment. Then switch out patterns with the seasons or holidays.
Add Moulding
Moulding adds architectural detail that instantly elevates a space. Modern, minimalist trim gives a tailored appearance, while ornate carved moulding lends traditional charm. Use it sparingly in high-impact areas.
Picture-frame your kitchen’s focal point – islands and range walls make great candidates for moulding. Vertical strips flanking a hood or open shelves sculpt the area beautifully. For a built-in look, frame cabinetry and side panels.
Crisp white moulding contrasts beautifully against dark accent walls or colorful cabinets. Or choose moulding in a natural wood finish that coordinates with your cabinetry for an integrated look.
Prefinished moulding makes installation clean and easy. For inside corners, use flexible corner beads for the most seamless finish. Enhance with paintable silicone caulk for an ultra polished look.
Incorporate Warm Metals
Warm metal finishes infuse kitchens with a welcoming, timeworn elegance. The patina of aged brass, copper and bronze impart vintage charm. Use these finishes in moderation as pretty accents against cool, neutral backdrops.
Antiqued brasshardware has an elegant old-world feel on contemporary cabinetry. Hammered copper apron sinks and range hoods add handcrafted personality. Bronze pulls bring an earthy touch to natural wood cabinetry.
Look for metal finishes pre-treated with an aged, oxidized effect or let pieces develop their own patina over time. If you prefer a shiny new appearance, lacquered metals retain their brightness.
Beyond hardware and fixtures, incorporate metal through woven barstools, wire-mesh cabinets and metallic textiles. Keep other finishes light to let the metals truly shine as focal accents.
Install a Butcher Block Island
Butcher block countertops infuse warmth into kitchens with their rich wooden beauty. While they require maintenance to keep them sanitary for food prep, their organic texture provides the perfect natural complement to cool industrial metals and minimalist decor.
Use butcher block selectively on low-traffic areas like islands, drink stations and tabletops. Pair it with hardy surfaces like quartz for heavy prep zones. Opt for wood finishes that conceal rather than highlight knife marks and scratches. Use cutting boards when chopping.
Proper sealing and regular oiling preserves the wood, while giving it a soft patina over time. Allow the butcher block to air dry completely after cleaning. Immediately wipe up spills to prevent stains and damage. Embrace the imperfections that make each piece unique.
Butcher block’s sustainable, artisanal quality just gets better with age. Let this handcrafted wood finish be your kitchen’s natural showpiece.
Add Architrectural Interest with Arches
Arched doorways, kitchen pass-throughs and alcoves provide beautiful architectural detail in kitchen designs. The gently rounded arches soften hard wall lines, creating visual interest and a touch of old-world charm. Framed arches also mimic the shape of traditional ovens for a fitting culinary touch.
Frame basic drywall archways with moulding trim for a polished finish. For larger openings, build wood support frames and install sturdy curved headers across the top. Accentuate decorative arches with wallpaper, tile or textured paint.
Keep the look consistent by echoing arches throughout the kitchen. Use rounded transoms over windows, arched freestanding pantry doors and curved floating shelves. Repeat design themes for a cohesive concept.
Thoughtfully place arches to open sightlines, frame desirable views, or set apart distinct kitchen zones. Let the graceful shape enhance your space beautifully and functionally.
Add Architectural Interest with Shiplap
Shiplap continues to top trend lists by bringing depth, texture and cozy character to kitchens. The subtle board lines create visual interest on wall surfaces, whether painted crisp white or left natural for rustic warmth. Keep the look fresh by using shiplap sparingly as a key accent.
Limit shiplap cladding to one wall as a textured backdrop for open shelves, range hoods or bar areas. Contrast this tactile feature wall with smooth, simple cabinetry and materials throughout the rest of the kitchen.
Crisp white shiplap has a sleek, coastal vibe that works well with contemporary and modern spaces. Unfinished neutral wood tones keep things light and airy in a cottage or farmhouse kitchen.
Watch online tutorials to prep, cut and install shiplap efficiently. Nail the reclaimed-style boards vertically with tight seams for the most attractive finish that prevents grime buildup. Let the dimensional boards make a stylish statement.
Hang Pot Racks and Rails
Hanging rails keep pots, pans and utensils organized and at hand while also serving as attractive open display. Pot racks maximize vertical storage space above work zones rather than taking up limited cabinet room.
Mount hanging racks securely into ceiling studs or support them from the ceiling with chains. Look for rails in materials like stainless steel, black metal, brass, wood and glass to match your style.
Edit your collection to just the key essentials you use most. Display these items styled in an orderly fashion for the most appealing look. Keep heavier cast iron or large pots toward the bottom with lighter items up top.
Strategically place pot racks directly above islands or ranges within easy reach. Improve visibility with overhead lighting or pendant fixtures to highlight the wares. Keep your most-used tools right where you need them.
Refresh the Refrigerator Front
Replacing an outdated refrigerator entirely is a pricey proposition. For a budget friendly refresh, you can easily customize the exterior front to blend with your new kitchen style. Just attach a decorative overlay or panels to mask an eyesore appliance.
Look for quality wood veneers, metal sheets or high-pressure laminates in a variety of finishes. Use magnets or adhesive to affix new overlays right onto the existing
