Tired of the same old kitchen, but don't want the hassle (or price tag) of an entire renovation? These fast and easy updates take the room from make-do to magnificent.
1. Refresh Your Cabinets
An easy way to update cabinetry is by painting the insides a contrasting color, like architect Gil Schafer and his color consultant, Eve Ashcraft, did in this western Connecticut home. You'll be sure to enjoy the unexpected detail every time you reach for a glass, or you can even try removing cabinet doors to get the look of open shelves.
Related: 101 Easy Makeover Tips You Can Do Now
2. Add Table Lamps
Placing table lamps on your island or dining table makes your kitchen feel like a room, not a laboratory. Designer Robert Stillin did this with Visual Comfort's Column lamp to make the 2009 House Beautiful Kitchen of the Year feel more cozy.
Related: Easy Solutions for Small Kitchens
3. Try a New Gadget
You don't have to invest in brand-new appliances like an industrial stove. Instead, become inspired to cook a new dish, or just have more fun cooking a family favorite, with a fun, functional gadget like a citrus juicer. We like this one from Cuisipro.com.
Related: Wacky Food-Themed Decor
4. Plant Fresh Herbs
Instead of buying herbs at the grocery store, take a cue from this Connecticut home by designer Carole Lalli and plant herbs in pots for your kitchen. They will add freshness to the atmosphere and your food.
Related: Amazing Before & After Makeovers
5. Switch Out Hardware
"Replace the cabinet pulls; it alone is a major transformation," says designer Jeff Lewis, who created this contemporary design for House Beautiful's 2010 Kitchen of the Year.
6. Hang Mirrors
For extra light and to make a kitchen feel more open, hang a mirror. It will reflect any natural light already present. You can even try paneling the cabinets, like in this Brooklyn home by designer Jonathan Berger.
Related: Designer Tips to Flip Your Kitchen
7. Transform Your Tiles
Update the look of your backsplash - without grout - by using tile decals. These adhesive stickers come in various sizes to perfectly cover up dated tile designs, plus they don't leave a sticky residue. We like these Mibo tile tattoos through 2Jane.com, or try Zazzle.com's vintage tile stickers.
8. Mix Up Seating
Whether you have upholstered or wood chairs, a fresh and modern look is to mix up the dining area seating. Alternate chair cushion colors, like designer Todd Klein did in this New York apartment, or if you're more bold, try rotating in different styles of seating that you already have around the house.
PLUS: 17 EASY WAYS TO CURB CLUTTERWhat would you like to update in your kitchen?
More from House Beautiful:
- One-Day Home Makeover: Before and After Photos
- Brilliant Ideas for a Tiny Kitchen
- Eye-Popping Headboard Designs
- Bedroom Designs We Love
- Get More Creative Ideas for Your Home: Subscribe to House Beautiful Magazine
