With everybody spending more time at home, it’s the perfect time to start on those kitchen renovations you’ve been dreaming about. These easy kitchen upgrades are a great way to pass the time and spruce up your home without spending a fortune. If you’re looking for a little more color or need some extra functionality, these inspiring projects will refresh your kitchen in no time.
Switch up the Lighting
From fancy to rustic to chic, you can upgrade your kitchen lighting in so many different ways. Inviting lighting is important in any room in the house. Since the majority of entertaining is done in the kitchen and dining areas, these are the best places to get a bit more creative. Adding DIY decorative light fixtures can cost anywhere from $30-$200+ but can immediately upgrade your kitchen’s aesthetic. If you already have a well-lit kitchen with plenty of natural sunlight, the lighting fixture can be mainly decorative. If you think your kitchen needs better functional lighting, try multiple fixtures, a statement chandelier or pendant lighting with exposed bulbs.
Revamp Your Appliances
The stovetop and dishwasher and refrigerator are the biggest appliances in the kitchen and can act as staples in any new design. If you are ready for something different, the rustic aesthetic of a propane stovetop or retro refrigerator might be just what your kitchen needs. And if you know your house uses a lot of water at one time like frequently running the dishwasher and washing machine while showering you may also want to switch to a propane water heater. In many areas, propane is less expensive than electricity, so it may reduceyour household’s overhead costs in the long run. If you are looking to spend less, painting your appliances is a great way to update your kitchen without having a complete renovation.
Add Your Own Splash
Updating with prints, textures, and colors is one of the simplest ways to add a current take on any area of the house. Chalkboard paint adds a moody accent and is inexpensive, easy to clean and most of all makes leaving messages or reminders fun for everyone. Something as simple as painting or staining the cabinets is one of the most effortless ways to revamp your kitchen vibe. The same idea applies to stovetop backsplashes and countertops. You can easily hide cheap looking laminate counters or bland colors with a bit of contact paper. A bright splash of color on the wall acts as a focal point and will draw the eye. You can even create your own ceramic or stainless steel backsplash for less than 40s per square foot. If there’s already enough going on on the counter space, you can always repurpose a rug. Not only will this give some cushion underfoot while you are at the stovetop or the sink but it can add some much-needed texture or color.
Get Creative with Storage and Space
Storage is one of the kitchen’s main purposes. Some of the trendiest kitchen designs use open shelving instead of closed cabinets or a combination of both. Not only will this open up even the smallest of rooms but it allows you to show off unique pieces or beautifully matched sets. Sometimes even small spaces can be transformed to maximize space without looking cluttered. Don’t be afraid to think vertically, using wire racks for utensils or installing floating shelves can make use of any empty wall. And if you’re short on counter space, there’s even a way to turn your sink into a bonus cutting board.
Change the Hardware
Although cabinet handles and drawer knobs may seem insignificant, they can completely renew a kitchen style or pull you into a different time. This is another project that you will only need a few tools and patience for- no contractor required. It’s an easy way to add personality without a huge commitment. Finding a uniformly modern set at your local hardware store won’t set you back too far. If you want something more eclectic and unique, check out estate sales, online marketplaces, or a Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Taking it a step further, you can replace or redecorate your outlet covers. There are a lot of unique ways to decorate your own outlet covers with paint or decoupage. If you are always looking through Pinterest boards and home design magazines for new decor ideas, then improvements like these are a great start. There’s no reason why you can’t be frugal about your remodeling ambitions. You can turn any size kitchen space into something beautiful and practical with a few tools and some patience. While you’re at it, take a moment to declutter and tidy up. Kitchens tend to collect both grease and items that don’t belong. Resell or donate utensils and appliances you have no use for and toss or donate unwanted foods. Once you have a clear picture of what belongs and what doesn’t, you can get started.