How To Update Kitchen Without a Full Remodel

A significant part of home life is spent in the kitchen—whether cooking, entertaining, or just spending some quality time with loved ones. But no one is happy entertaining and cooking in a kitchen that is worn out and outdated.

The good news is that you don’t have to commit the time and finances to a complete remodel if you want to update your kitchen! Here’s a few things you can address that won’t break the bank and will leave you with a “new” kitchen to love.

A little fresh paint goes a long way

One of the simplest ways to give your kitchen a new life is to give it a new coat of paint. Choosing a new color for your cabinets or island (if you have one) is an easy and affordable way to dramatically update the look of the space.

This is also a good way to cover up any wear and tear your cabinets might have earned over the years. Just make sure you properly sand, clean, and mask off your surfaces before painting so the end result is flawless.

In addition to cabinets and islands, you can also go for a bolder new look by adding a splash of color to one or all of the kitchen’s walls. This might require a little more prep work depending on the size and layout of your space, but is a great way to breathe new life into any room.

Change out the hardware for an updated look

It’s hard to believe such small accents in a kitchen can make it feel the most dated. Maybe your dated hardware came with the house when you purchased it; maybe you installed it all years ago and it is simply time for a change.

Whatever your reason, choosing new knobs, pulls, and other hardware goes a long way toward making the space feel new and fresh.

Look at what kinds of shapes and finishes are in trend right now, what styles match the rest of your space, or maybe find something that bridges the gaps between old and new.

Or go straight for the appliances

Easily one of the most noticeable ways to update your kitchen is with new appliances. Obviously, this can get very pricey very fast—so if you want to start updating appliances, don’t worry about doing them all at once.

Such a big commitment can make you hesitate, just pick the appliance that you use the most or that are having the most issues and replace that one with a newer model. Over time, you can replace the others to match, and before you know it your whole kitchen is completely new!

Consider adding shelving and decor

If you’ve got the space—and a lot of that space is blank or underutilized—consider adding in some shelving to your walls. They can hold décor and add some much-needed functionality to your kitchen.

Try arranging some themed items—vases, tea kettles, wine bottles, a vintage colander—or photo frames. Or, line up your measuring bowls and hang your pots and pans. However, you approach it, adding this element to your walls can really class up the space.

You don’t have to wait for the availability of a full-scale remodel to have the new kitchen of your dreams! With a few smaller changes and a little elbow grease, you can have an updated space that keeps you happy until you’re able to commit to that complete re-do down the road.