5 Easy Ways to Update Your Kitchen

The kitchen is most often the heart of the home, but it can also be one of the most expensive updates to a new abode.  Large tasks such as relocating plumbing lines, knocking out cabinets, and purchasing a new set of appliances usually contribute to the high cost of updating the kitchen.  However, there a simpler ways to refresh the kitchen without putting a dent in your wallet.

1. Paint The Cabinets

Replacing cabinets with new oak or walnut ones can easily drive up the price of your upgrade, and are often unnecessary.  Instead, try painting your original cabinets.  Painting the cabinets with a fresh coat of white has the power of opening up a small kitchen, and can make it seem a lot more spacious.  To create a kitchen with a little more personality, try painting your upper cabinets a light color, such as white, cream, or light blue; and paint your lower cabinets a darker color, like slate, navy, or black.  Chalkboard paint is another great option, and allows your cabinets to have a more practical uses, such as keeping track of needed grocery items, important dates, or cabinet contents.  Meanwhile, the kids can get creative with the lower cabinets, and hopefully leave your walls alone! 

2. Add Unique Tiles

Tile is a great way to add color, pattern, and personality to your kitchen without spending a lot of money.  For a classic look, try a simple white subway tile backsplash.  This can brighten up the kitchen without making it look too busy.  If you crave a splash of color, try using a varied bright colored or patterned tiles on the kitchen floor.  Picking up a navy floral print tile can bring color and diversity to an all-white kitchen.

3. Update & Alternate Fixtures & Appliances

Fixtures and appliances are most frequently used and often incur wear and tear very quickly.  The good news is that changing out your handles and knobs is as easy as using a screwdriver.  Hardware stores often have a variety of unique and colorful knobs that can add an instant dash of color.  If you are cramped for room in the kitchen, try removing the doors from your cabinets.  This will give your kitchen an airy feeling and allow you to display some of your nicer decorative pieces and those fancy or funky serving platters and china pieces.

4. Swap Out Lighting

Adding more light to your kitchen will instantly make it feel more spacious and inviting.  Installing a window can be expensive so, instead, try using light colors and new brighter bulbs to brighten your space.  If the existing recessed lighting is not cutting it, try adding pendant lighting above your kitchen island or stove top area.  This will add extra light to your space and create a warm ambiance when desired.

5. Accessorize 

Accessorizing your homes is a fun and easy way to give any space an instant facelift.  It's also a great way to express your personality throughout your home.  Since space is often limited in the kitchen, it is important to remember that when accessorizing this space, items should be practical and functional, and counter space should be clutter free.  Try colorful bookends to keep cookbooks in order, funky salt and pepper shakers, or a woven rug to add instant and vibrant energy to the kitchen.