If you think revamping your kitchen means a complete overhaul that’s going to break the budget, you’re wrong. There are a few simple and cost-efficient ways to spruce things up without making a mess of your space and your finances.
Let’s explore some simple DIY tricks to upgrade your kitchen:
A Few Small and Easy Replacements
That’s right- we’re talking knobs and handles, towels and dishrags, even place mats and napkins if your dining are is in your kitchen. Take a quick survey of your space, and sort out what could be easily replaced with something a bit newer and nicer. This tactic is as simple as choosing one’s accessories before a night out; sometimes the devil is in the details!
Count all the knobs and handles in your drawers, and take a look online to see how much it’d cost to replace them. Same thing with other accessories that are both function and ornamental, like hanging towels and place mats. You may also consider the cutting board, the paper towel rack, or even a few small appliances. Anything visible that could use an upgrade is fair game.
Some of us like to store our amenities when they’re not in use. But if you’re the type who prefers to keep the blender, toaster, and cutting board out at all times, consider how attractive their presence is with regard to the overall aesthetic to your kitchen area. If you’re generally satisfied with the space and only want to spruce it up a bit, you may just need to make minor adjustments to improve the overall look and efficiency.
Add Some Color
Perhaps it’s in your budget to make somewhat larger changes, but you aren’t sure where to begin. Once again, we suggest that you take inventory of what you’ve already got, and sort out what you’re least satisfied with. If your hardware is in good shape, for instance, maybe it just needs a makeover.
If you’ve got the time and the tools to repaint your cabinet doors, this is a great way to give your kitchen a facelift without replacing anything. After removing the doors from their hinges, you just need the space to lay them on a protective cloth. Pick a color, tape up the hinges and handles, and go for it!
The same concept holds true for drawers, pantry doors, and even windowsills. While they can’t be removed as easily as cabinet doors, you can still use painter’s tape and a floor cloth to prevent slips and spills. Adding some color to your kitchen may be all you need to make it feel like a whole new space.
Add Some Lighting
Does your kitchen have dark, shadowy areas created by the cabinetry hanging over your counter space? How about an old-fashioned recessed lighting fixture that makes you feel like you’re in a hallway? Perhaps you’ve got a gaudy, outdated chandelier hanging over your dining nook.
Whether it’s the fixture itself or the actual lighting, this element plays a huge role in the overall ambience if any room. Replacing old fixtures with newer and more attractive pieces is simply a matter of research and basic handiwork. But if you want to get creative, we’ve got a few ideas.
Did you know you can add simple lighting along the bottom (or even the insides) of your cabinets to brighten up shadowy spaces? There are several products on the market that only require an outlet and a couple of screws, allowing you to light up dim corners and glass-front cabinets in your kitchen. Additionally, some even choose to place a miniature lamp in the corner of their countertop, as a miniature nightlight for that midnight glass of water.
Click here for more small kitchen remodel ideas on a tight budget!
