Kitchen cabinets play a major role in your space: not only do they provide storage solutions to organize your cooking area, but they can also make a statement and enhance the look and feel of the kitchen. However, over time, they can look outdated or no longer fit your vision for the space.
Even when this happens, many homeowners avoid making any upgrades because of the high cost associated with kitchen cabinets. However, the good news is that there are budget-friendly ways to transform your kitchen without breaking the bank. Read on for inspiration!
Give your cabinets a fresh coat of paint
Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint. It is the biggest bang for your buck, allowing you to achieve an outstanding look and make your cabinets look brand-new. However, for this to happen, you want to get high-quality paint. Although it may be a bit more costly, it will look better and last longer. Oil-based paints are ideal for this project because they are stain- and moisture-resistant.
It’s also essential to find the right color, because it will have a huge impact on the overall aesthetics of the kitchen. The shade you choose should complement the floors, counters, appliances, and other features in the space. White is still a classic, as it brightens up the room, but you can obviously go for other alternatives if this isn’t your preferred choice. What matters is to follow all the steps because it will make a difference in the end. Make sure to sand the surface, remove the hardware, and then apply the primer, adding enough coats while also providing protection.
Replace only the cabinet doors
If you want an easy and affordable way of upgrading your cabinets, choosing replacement kitchen doors is a great solution. This upgrade will breathe new life into the kitchen, regardless of its current appearance.
It’s especially suitable if you’re happy with the layout of the space but have damaged or outdated cabinet doors. The hardest part about replacing cabinet doors is choosing your preferred option, whether semi-custom doors, custom doors, ready-to-assemble doors, laminate, wood, or veneer. The good news is that there are numerous options to choose from, so take the time to search for the best deal and ensure that you select quality materials that can withstand daily use.
Install new hardware
Another way of giving your kitchen cabinets a facelift is to install new hardware. Hardware undergoes a lot of wear and tear over the years, so it’s no wonder that it can become damaged. Adding a new one will make a huge difference in the aesthetics of your space, and it’s also very cost-effective. It’s worth noting that hardware is available in various styles, such as sleek or vintage, and you should take the time to find the option that aligns with the overall theme of the kitchen’s design and your preferences.
It’s also important to ensure that you aren’t compromising on quality, as this will prevent frequent replacements and ensure your kitchen remains functional. Durability is another essential factor when choosing cabinet hardware; consider selecting sturdy materials like solid brass. As for the process of installing new hardware itself, it is straightforward and requires only a few steps. All you have to do is remove the old hardware, drill the new mounting holes, and install the new hardware, and you’ll get a brand-new look for your kitchen in no time.
Add undercabinet lighting
This is probably the easiest and most cost-effective upgrade for your cooking space, and truth be told, it’s an upgrade that should be in every kitchen. This is because it helps enhance visibility and safety during important tasks, such as meal preparation, and it also comes with the added benefit of creating a soft and inviting glow, which significantly improves the ambiance of the space.
When searching for undercabinet lights, several key factors should be considered, including color temperature, installation method, power source, and features such as smart controls for added versatility. The best undercabinet lights are LEDs, as they offer a longer lifespan and are more energy-efficient compared to other options.
Incorporate cabinet crown molding
Do you want to make your cabinets look custom-made? Look no further than crowd molding trim, which will turn your kitchen storage into a seamless design. Adding extra things to your cabinets by mounting molding will add a unique feature that most cabinets lack. Many homeowners love this approach because it adds a subtle touch that can make a significant impact and give their kitchen a polished look.
To add crown molding to your cabinets, start by measuring the length of the cabinet tops, then cut the molding to size, accounting for the corner joints. The next step is to build a frame so you can attach the molding to it, making installation easier. Finally, attach the molding to the frame and install the entire assembly above the kitchen cabinets.
Add more storage
Sometimes, the simplest and most effective way to enhance the look and functionality of your kitchen is to add more storage. Installing additional cabinets will decrease clutter and boost the functionality of the space. Besides, it can also increase the value of your home and improve the quality of your life.
Homeowners often overlook many spaces in the kitchen that could be easily utilized as storage. For instance, the space between the fridge and the cabinets can be utilized for this purpose, but you could also add taller cabinets or sliding shelves, which will help with staying organized. If your kitchen is generally messy and cluttered, this change will make a world of difference and set the appearance and functionality of the space together.
The bottom line
Refreshing your kitchen cabinets doesn’t require a full renovation: sometimes, the smallest changes – as the ones we discussed above- can go a long way in changing the feel and look of the space. With little time and effort, you can create a kitchen that feels functional and uniquely yours – all while staying within your budget.