Key Points
- Swap out cabinet hardware and light fixtures to instantly modernize your kitchen with minimal effort.
- Add sheer curtains to bring in more natural light, which will create a bright ambiance
- Store dry goods in clear jars to keep things streamlined and cohesive.
It's commonly known that the kitchen is the heart of the home—it's the main hub where families and friends gather, which is why it's important to curate a space that you and your loved ones actually enjoy being in.
A full kitchen renovation is often challenging due to budget restraints and time, so we've asked a couple of designers to share easy and fast upgrades you can do to elevate your kitchen in an instant. Not only can you tackle these upgrades with decor accessories you may have on hand, but it'll transform your space without breaking the bank.
Below, we've highlighted a few easy kitchen upgrades you can get started on.
Meet the Expert
- Teri Simone is the head of design and marketing at Nieu Cabinet Doors.
- Rick Berres is the owner of Honey-Doers.
- Thomas Borcherding is a professional kitchen designer and owner of Homestar Design Remodel, as well as a member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA).
Swap Out the Hardware
All the designers agree that swapping out the hardware on your cabinets can instantly give your kitchen space a facelift. Think drawer pulls and knobs in a matching color to create a cohesive look.
"It’s a small detail that instantly updates the overall look and can be achieved in a couple of hours," Teri Simone, the head of design and marketing at Nieu Cabinet Doors, says.
Thomas Borcherding, a professional kitchen designer and owner of Homestar Design Remodel, agrees and explains how it will enhance your kitchen space for way less. Borcherding recommends making sure that the mounting hole width lines up with your existing pulls.
Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decor ideas, designer tips, and more!
Change Dated Lighting
If your current kitchen space has pendant lights or chandeliers, it may be a telltale sign that it's time to refresh the lighting since these types can date your space.
"Simply changing out your kitchen's lighting fixtures can take years off of your kitchen and is minimally invasive," Borcherding explains.
Simone suggests a statement pendant over the island or under-cabinet lighting for better task visibility to make the space feel brighter, more modern, and more functional.
Opt for Sheer Curtains
According to Rick Berres, the owner of Honey-Doers, one of the easiest ways to highlight your kitchen is by opting for sheer, light curtains to let natural light filter in. This will help set a bright ambiance that feels warm and airy.
Organize Pantry Items
A cluttered and messy kitchen can overwhelm a space and make a bad impression on guests when they come over. To streamline your items, Simone recommends organizing your dried goods into clear jars or canisters.
This will help create a cleaner, more intentional aesthetic on your counters or open shelving, Simone explains.
"Everyday items like pasta, rice, or flour suddenly look styled rather than cluttered, and you’ll always know exactly what you have on hand," Simone says.