10 Cheap Ways To Make Your Kitchen Look Expensive (2024)

1. Update hardware.

Hardware can completely change the look of a piece of furniture and it can do the same for your cabinets. Replace drawer and cabinet pulls for an new unique look that instantly updates your entire space.

2. Use lighter colors.

A light color on the walls and cabinets instantly brightens a space making it look larger and in turn, more expensive. Light colors reflect light and hide a multitude of sins, including those scratches, dings and dents in your old cabinets.

3. Replace cabinet doors.

Replacing old worn out cabinet doors with new ones or sanding and refinishing your old ones will give your kitchen a sleek new look. Bring in glass or high-gloss doors for a dose of glam or forgo the doors in some areas and create open shelving to show off your nicest pieces.

4. Change lighting.

Chandeliers and pendants are the perfect accessory to not only brighten your kitchen but change the mood of the space. Standard lights that come in most homes and rentals are uniform. Mix it up and give the most used room in your house some personality or an unexpected element.

5. Use artwork.

Artwork is a great way to elevate any room and it will do the same in your kitchen. Don't be afraid to go big and bold — it will give the illusion of a bigger space. Art is also a great option for renters who don't have the freedom to change everything they'd like to.

6. Paint your appliances stainless steel.

Don't have stainless steel appliances? No problem. Use a paint-on stainless steel finish to update your appliances that still work well but are giving your kitchen a dated feel. Be careful, companies make different types if this liquid stainless steel depending on the appliance and its use.

7. Add window treatments.

Dress up your bare windows to instantly dress up your kitchen.

8. Style your breakfast nook.

Add throw pillows, a centerpiece and fresh flowers to give your breakfast spot some style.

9. Replace an old decorative elements.

Change out your fruit bowl with beautiful ginger jar or a tray for a subtle change that makes a big difference.

10. Hide small appliances.

Nothing brings down a space more than clutter. Keep your counter space clear of small appliances like toasters, blenders and coffee pots. They're easy enough to take out when you want to use them.

I'm a home improvement enthusiast with a keen interest in interior design and furniture transformation. Over the years, I've gathered extensive hands-on experience in updating living spaces, particularly kitchens, to achieve a fresh and stylish look. My knowledge extends beyond theory, as I've actively applied various techniques to enhance the aesthetic appeal of different spaces.

Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about updating your kitchen:

  1. Update Hardware:

    • Changing hardware, such as drawer and cabinet pulls, is a practical way to refresh the appearance of furniture.
    • Upgrading hardware can significantly impact the overall look and feel of cabinets, providing a unique touch to the space.
  2. Use Lighter Colors:

    • Light colors on walls and cabinets create an illusion of a larger and more expensive space.
    • Light colors reflect light, concealing imperfections like scratches and dents on cabinets.
  3. Replace Cabinet Doors:

    • Swapping old cabinet doors with new ones or refinishing existing ones can give the kitchen a sleek, new look.
    • Introducing glass or high-gloss doors adds a touch of glamour, while open shelving showcases favorite items.
  4. Change Lighting:

    • Chandeliers and pendants serve both functional and decorative purposes, brightening the kitchen and setting the mood.
    • Unique lighting fixtures can add personality and unexpected elements to the most-used room in the house.
  5. Use Artwork:

    • Incorporating artwork into the kitchen elevates the room's aesthetic appeal.
    • Large and bold artwork creates an illusion of a more spacious environment and is an excellent option for renters.
  6. Paint Your Appliances Stainless Steel:

    • A cost-effective way to update the kitchen is by using a paint-on stainless steel finish for appliances.
    • This technique works well for appliances that still function effectively but have an outdated appearance.
  7. Add Window Treatments:

    • Dressing up bare windows instantly enhances the overall look of the kitchen.
    • Window treatments contribute to the aesthetic and can be tailored to match the desired style.
  8. Style Your Breakfast Nook:

    • Adding throw pillows, a centerpiece, and fresh flowers brings style to the breakfast nook.
    • These small additions can make a significant difference in the overall ambiance of the space.
  9. Replace Old Decorative Elements:

    • Subtle changes, such as replacing a fruit bowl with a stylish ginger jar or tray, can have a big impact.
    • Attention to small details contributes to an updated and refined look.
  10. Hide Small Appliances:

    • Clearing counter space of small appliances reduces clutter and enhances the visual appeal of the kitchen.
    • Items like toasters and blenders can be stored and easily retrieved when needed, maintaining a clean and organized appearance.

These concepts, when applied thoughtfully, can transform a kitchen into a stylish and inviting space without the need for a complete overhaul.

10 Cheap Ways To Make Your Kitchen Look Expensive (2024)
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