Update Your Kitchen: 7 Transformative Projects

by Quick and Dirty Tips

Is your kitchen starting to look dated? These 7 easy tips from Domestic CEO will have you refreshed in no time flat!

update your kitchen 7 transformative projects, kitchen backsplash, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, shelving ideas

Eventually, every kitchen starts to look a little tired and worn. Does this describe your kitchen? If so, now is the perfect time to embark on a few simple projects that will give your kitchen the boost you’re looking for. Whether you are a diehard DIY-er or you’re new to home ownership and home projects, you can find something from our list that fits your skill level and budget.

Tip 1: Refresh Your Cabinets

Have your kitchen cabinets seen better days? Many kitchens date back to the 1980s when oak cabinets were all the rage. With the sleeker, more modern look now in style, oak is taking a back seat in the design world. However, your oak cabinets may still be solid as a rock. While there’s nothing wrong with the function of the cabinets, the look needs a serious update.

If that's the case, you may want to consider painting your cabinets a lustrous white or warm gray hue. Whether you tackle this project yourself or hire a professional, painting your old kitchen cabinets will give your space an amazing facelift, breathing new life into a tired kitchen. You’ll be amazed at the transformation (and how inexpensive it is)! If you want to take on this job yourself, this link from DIY Network will give you step-by-step instructions on painting your cabinets.

update your kitchen 7 transformative projects, kitchen backsplash, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, shelving ideas, Image via ginsburgconstruction pixabay

Image via ginsburgconstruction @pixabay

Tip 2: Remove Cabinet Doors

A simpler cabinet project that still provides a refreshing change is to remove a few cabinet doors completely. Next, use either paint or wallpaper to add a pop of color to the back interior wall of that cabinet. Use these shelves to display dishes or beautiful glassware, and be sure to choose a paint color or wallpaper design that fits your décor. You can even use wrapping paper if you want. With this quick project, you can add a pop of color or a touch of whimsy.

Image via Tim Crowe @Flickr

Tip 3: Install Open Shelving

Do you have an empty wall that needs a little something? Consider installing open shelving to display treasured kitchen items like a recipe collection or your grandma’s antique bowl set. Even mason jars storing your everyday items suddenly become kitchen art when displayed on open shelves. The big box stores like Lowe’s and Target have some fabulous selections of inexpensive shelving. But be sure to use wall anchors when installing your shelves, so your beautiful work doesn’t come tumbling down after a day or two.

update your kitchen 7 transformative projects, kitchen backsplash, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, shelving ideas, Image via Maegan Tintari Flickr

Image via Maegan Tintari @Flickr

Tip 4: Add New Cabinet Hardware

Adding hardware to cabinets and drawers is like completing your outfit with just the right jewelry. You can take your cabinets from plain and simple to beautiful and stunning by adding decorative knobs or drawer pulls. There are so many finishes and styles of hardware to choose from, so I suggest beginning your search for the perfect accents on the Internet. It's a great source for inexpensive cabinet hardware. I purchased all the knobs and drawer pulls for my kitchen for under $100! You can tackle this project yourself with a drill and some precise measuring, or hire someone to do it for you.

update your kitchen 7 transformative projects, kitchen backsplash, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, shelving ideas, Image via ArtsyBee pixabay

Image via ArtsyBee @pixabay

Tip 5: Add Chalkboards

Chalkboards and chalkboard prints are really popular right now. You can add a bit of this creative touch to your kitchen for a small amount of cash. Here are two ideas for you to get started: Do you have a kitchen island or an end of your cabinets that is just boring and lackluster? Why not paint just that end section with chalkboard paint. This will work on a lower cabinet or upper cabinet, whichever you choose. Then it’s time to draw a sweet design on your new chalkboard.

Check out the Moxie Girl Pinterest board of typography for chalkboards for some inspiration. If painting on your cabinet is too big of a commitment, search your local thrift store for an old silver platter. You can paint the edges a coordinating color that matches with your kitchen or simply leave them silver. Then paint the interior portion of the tray with chalkboard paint. Use a hot glue gun to attach some twine, rope, or ribbon to the back of your tray to use as the hanger. And now you're all set! Hang your cute chalkboard on a kitchen wall or at the end of your cabinets.

update your kitchen 7 transformative projects, kitchen backsplash, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, shelving ideas, Image via Mike DelGadio Flickr

Image via Mike DelGadio @Flickr

Tip 6: Update Your Backsplash

Is the wall space between your kitchen counters and your upper cabinets bare and boring? Have you thought about adding a backsplash? One of my friends recently completed this in her kitchen, and I was floored with not only what a huge impact it made on the look of her kitchen, but also how inexpensive it was.

Installing a backsplash is not too tough a project to tackle. In fact, both Lowes and Home Depot have quick tutorials on their websites, or you can find a number of videos on YouTube showing you step-by-step instructions. You can find sheets of glass tile at home improvement stores, on the clearance rack if you’re lucky, and do this project on the cheap. My friend decided to tile just one wall in her kitchen so the cost was about $70. If you give yourself a weekend and take your time, this project can turn out beautifully.

update your kitchen 7 transformative projects, kitchen backsplash, kitchen cabinets, kitchen design, shelving ideas, Image via Kelly Sikkema Flickr

Image via Kelly Sikkema @Flickr

Tip Change Out Your Light Switch Plates

You can give your kitchen a sleek modern edge when you upgrade your faceplates to stainless steel.

If you’re looking for a quick, cheap update here’s the perfect solution: Change all the outlet and light switch plates in your kitchen. You can give your kitchen a sleek modern edge when you upgrade your faceplates to stainless steel. Oil-rubbed bronze gives a rich look to your kitchen. Looking for something unusual and quirky? Etsy has some one-of-a-kind artsy switch plates that will stir up lively conversation in your kitchen. So grab a screwdriver. This quick change makeover can be done in under an hour!

If you have never tackled any home project before, I strongly encourage you to give it a try. It’s such a satisfying feeling to see the transformation from even just a small, DIY accomplishment. Once you have one successful project under your belt, you’ll feel empowered to try another! Whether you choose one project or all 7, you’ll be surprised at how you can transform your humdrum kitchen into a warm, inviting space with just a few little tricks. Go ahead…put your own personal signature on the space you call home.

This originally appeared at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/house-home/interior-design/update-your-kitchen-7-transformative-projects

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Brenda Michaelis on Dec 22, 2018

What is the best way to clean cabinets

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Brenda Michaelis on Dec 22, 2018

What is the best way to clean cabinets

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Brenda Michaelis on Dec 22, 2018

What is the best way to clean cabinets

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Larry Lou on May 19, 2015
We painted our 35 yr old mobile home kitchen, bathroom cabinets and one bathroom counter top. The Master bathroom cabinets and counter top are black, the kitchen cabinets are black with a soft cream color on the walls, and the main bathroom cabinets are painted a couple of shades darker than the walls which are silver. The master bath and kitchen are going on 6 yrs since painted and not one bit of trouble, I just painted the main bath, but I don't worry......if the master bath and kitchen are still looking new and fresh then I'm sure the main will too. I love paint!!! Oh and our walls are fake paneling and some had vinyl wallpaper, just used a "gripper" primer on first then paint.

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Renata on May 23, 2015
Soooo way more better!! Love White Cabinets!!

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