Those days of needing a full kitchen renovation to achieve a modern and inviting feel are gone. Now, there are plenty of easy and budget-friendly ways to rejuvenate your kitchen. We recently did just that, and I couldn’t be happier with how this dull brown kitchen transformed into a lively and gorgeous space.
Extending Cabinets to the Ceiling
Extending your cabinets to the ceiling can completely transform your kitchen by maximizing storage and giving it a more sophisticated look. You have two options: install extra cabinetry or create custom shelves to bridge the gap between your current cabinets and the ceiling. We chose to add to this simple kitchen renovation by building on top of our existing cabinets and leave them open in order to save on costs, and I adore how it turned out. Afterward, consider painting or staining the new additions. We opted to paint both the upper cabinets and the extension to maintain a unified appearance.
LAMP (SIMILAR) | RUG | YELLOW CANDLES | FAUCET | PENDANT LIGHT | PULLS | KNOBS | SHELF BRACKETS | CURTAIN ROD | CURTAINS | WICKER BASKETS | BRONZE WALL PLATE | TILE
Skip the Renovation and Paint your Backsplash
Save money and skip the full-on kitchen renovation by painting your backsplash! This beginner-friendly project is surprisingly simple and can be completed in just a day. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the tile surface to remove any grease or grime. Select a high-quality paint designed for use on tile surfaces. Apply the paint using a brush or roller, working in small sections for uniform coverage. After drying, seal the paint with a clear topcoat for extra durability and protection against moisture and stains. I’ve actually detailed our entire process in a separate post for easy follow-along.
How to Paint Your Cabinets
You don’t need to do a renovation, nor invest in new cabinets, if your current ones are in good condition; painting can significantly change your kitchen’s appearance. Start by removing the cabinet doors and hardware. It’s crucial to thoroughly clean and sand the surfaces. Next, apply a primer designed for smooth surfaces, then sand again before painting. Begin painting with a color you love; we opted for “Jungle Camouflage” by Behr. Sand once more before applying another coat of paint. I recommend repeating the sanding and painting process a few times for optimal results. Although it may seem like a lot of work, I assure you it will yield better results. Once dry, reattach the doors, pulls, and knobs. Please note, that it does take several weeks for the paint to fully cure!
Update Light Fixtures and Faucet
Lighting is essential in design as it sets the mood, emphasizes decor, and can make a room appear larger. There are numerous affordable lighting options available! I particularly adore the delicate light fixture we selected for over the sink. While I enjoy mixing metals, for the lights, it was crucial that the metals to match, giving each light choice a deliberate and cohesive feel.
Replacing your kitchen faucet is one of the simplest updates you can make to refresh your space! You might be skeptical, thinking, ‘Really? Faucets?’ But consider this – faucets are like the jewelry of your kitchen. While they may seem like minor details, they can significantly enhance the overall appearance and ambiance of the room.
Adding Open Shelving
Open shelving in a kitchen adds a cozy touch that’s hard to beat! While it requires more upkeep, it brings a homely and inviting, cozy energy to the space. It’s the perfect spot to showcase your favorite items like cookbooks, glassware, and daily decor, adding both charm and practicality. We opted for stained oak shelves paired with adorable vintage-inspired brackets for a nostalgic touch.
Updating your kitchen doesn’t need to involve a costly renovation. The best part? These are all DIY projects. Choose one, two, or all of these ideas, you can’t go wrong! Get creative, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating a space you love.