Are you tired of your old kitchen, but not ready for a major renovation? Fear not; there are many ways you can refresh the look of your kitchen without spending time and top dollar installing new cabinets, floors and appliances.
Here are a few suggestions, summarized from tips available at HGTV.com, Yahoo! Shopping, and About.com:
Ban the Clutter: It’s easy for kitchen counters to collect clutter, such as keys, mail, and extra kitchen gadgets that you never use. Hang a mail basket for papers and remove everything else you don’t need from the kitchen counters (and while you’re at it, ban clutter from the broom closet and the spaces between appliances, too). Donate anything that’s usable, and toss the rest. Getting rid of clutter will make your kitchen look larger, cleaner, and more sleek, and get you ready for your makeover’s next steps.
Hang Notes Out of Sight: Remove the papers and photos that are hanging all over your refrigerator and put small bulletin boards inside cabinet or closet doors instead. Your refrigerator will look neater and sleeker, and your kitchen will look less cluttered.
Change Cabinetry Hardware: You might not choose to install new cabinets right now, or even reface the ones you have. But changing the handles and knobs – a much quicker and more affordable option – can make a big difference in the look of your kitchen.
Paint Cabinet Interiors: Another way to add a splash of life to your cabinets is to paint the interiors a contrasting color. Then remove the cabinet doors completely, or replace old doors with glass doors so the color shows through.
Consider a New Faucet: Just as new hardware will update your cabinetry, a new faucet can add life to an old sink. Consider something that will look contemporary, such as a stainless steel or bronze faucet that curves over the sink.
Add Colorful Accents: Tired of the monotony of your kitchen colors? You can add color to your kitchen with a basket or ceramic bowl filled with bright, fresh fruit (such as red apples or green pears). You can also display accent pieces such as Fiesta ware, bright storage boxes, or colorful dishes. The old standby, a vase of fresh flowers, still works, too.
Try a New Kitchen Gadget: Now that you’ve gotten rid of all the things you don’t use, you have room for something useful and new. Even if you don’t need a major new appliance right now, you can add something smaller, such as a citrus juicer, bread maker, or KitchenAid mixer.
Think Baskets: Do you like the rustic, country kitchen look? How about stacking large baskets for storage, instead of using shelves? Baskets can hold potatoes, onions, and other foods.
Add Mirrors: Feel claustrophobic? Add mirrors. Mirrors reflect natural light, look contemporary and shiny, and create a sense of additional space. One idea: panel your cabinets with mirrors.
Add Decals to your Tiles: Tile decals are adhesive stickers that can be used to update old tile designs. Check out those available at 2Jane.com or Zazzle.com.
Change Up the Dining Area: If it’s not yet time for a new kitchen, how about a new dining set? Make it fun by adding a colorful throw rug beneath the table, or mixing up the colors on cushioned chairs. If you use bar stools next to a kitchen island or counter, switch them out for a set with a new look.
Hang Your Pots and Pans: Add space and style by hanging pots and pans from a pot rack.
Add a Towel Rack: One tip: try a wrought iron curtain rod six to eight inches beneath your cabinets for hanging hand towels.
The Old Standby – Paint: New wall color can completely change the look of your kitchen. Lighter colors, for example, can add a sense of spaciousness.
These are just a few ideas to help you change things up in your kitchen without committing to a complete renovation. Have a little fun, and create a new look for the most-used room in your home!
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