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5 Easy & Efficient Kitchen Updates DIYers Should Know

5 Easy & Efficient Kitchen Updates DIYers Should Know

Revitalizing your kitchen over a leisurely weekend can be a straightforward project. Simple updates like applying a fresh coat of paint to your cabinets, installing a new backsplash, swapping out hardware or faucets, and incorporating innovative drawer and shelf storage solutions can swiftly rejuvenate your kitchen’s appearance. 

Infuse a touch of color, texture, and unexpected functionality to transform your kitchen into a delightful space for meal prep, cooking, and quality family time. 

Kitchen Revamp: Update vs. Remodel 

A kitchen remodel project encompasses various do-it-yourself approaches to breathe new life into your cabinets, appliances, and walls. Low-risk endeavors like repainting and changing drawer handles and knobs offer fantastic avenues to enhance your kitchen’s allure even when working within a constrained budget and timeline. 

Conversely, a kitchen remodel entails a more comprehensive scale and budget. Remodeling entails tasks better suited for skilled contractors, such as: 

  • Enlarging the space by removing a wall 
  • Reconfiguring the stove, sink, or refrigerator to create an efficient “work triangle” 
  • Incorporating plumbing fixtures like a pot filler or island sink 
  • Adding electrical outlets, recessed illumination, or switches 
  • Installing stone countertops 

A well-experienced kitchen revamp can help you elevate a home’s selling potential or augment its overall value. 

Maximize your investment by enlisting the expertise of a kitchen remodeling contractor to ensure secure and code-compliant project execution. 

  • Cabinet Repainting 

Reviving your cabinets with a fresh coat of paint is a premier method to contemporize your kitchen. With a spectrum ranging from white to blue and even captivating two-tone schemes, the array of color possibilities is virtually limitless. 

Bring home paint samples and assess their appearance under both natural and artificial lighting throughout the day. Opt for a hue that resonates harmoniously in all lighting scenarios, complements your chosen theme, and harmonizes with your fixtures, appliances, and countertops. 

Repainting cabinet surfaces, doors, and drawer fronts constitutes one of the more time-intensive do-it-yourself endeavors (approximately three days, factoring in drying time). Nevertheless, it stands as one of the most impactful and gratifying updates, provided you’re willing to invest the effort. 

One of the most transformative updates you can make is painting your kitchen cabinets. Choose a color that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic. Remove the cabinet doors and hardware, clean and sand them, then apply a primer and a couple of coats of paint. This can give your kitchen a whole new look without a major renovation. 

  • Replace Hardware 

Upgrading the basic knobs and pulls found on builder-grade cabinets with new or vintage hardware can infuse your kitchen design with character. Within minutes, you can effortlessly revitalize outdated cabinet doors, giving them the appearance of brand-new units. 

There’s no requirement for your hardware to perfectly match the finish of your sink and appliances. Experimenting with combinations of metals, such as pairing brass pulls with black appliances, introduces captivating visual dynamics to your kitchen’s overall design. 

The handles and knobs of drawers and cabinets are items that homeowners interact with daily. Hence, opt for a style that not only complements your aesthetic but also facilitates easy cleaning. Choosing hardware with a drill length similar to that of the existing pieces ensures swift installation. If necessary, you have the option to fill existing holes or create new ones to accommodate your preferred style. 

Prioritize hardware designs that merge practicality with aesthetics. While ornate styles might possess allure, they could potentially snag on clothing. Similarly, unconventional pulls might deter potential homebuyers. It’s also wise to consider whether the chosen style is convenient for family members dealing with arthritis or limited hand mobility. 

Swapping out old cabinet knobs and pulls for new ones can significantly enhance the overall appearance of your kitchen. Opt for hardware that matches your desired style – whether it’s modern, rustic, or classic. Make sure to measure the existing holes accurately to find hardware that fits perfectly. 

  • Discover Fresh Fabric Selections

Updating your kitchen into a cozy haven involves more than just culinary equipment. A draped oven towel, hand towels, rugs, and upholstered barstools with fabric touches introduce a gentle warmth to the environment. 

Strategically placing a runner or rug can provide comfort while standing at the sink or counter. Enhance this experience by considering a slip-resistant mat underneath, offering stability and extra cushioning. Alternatively, opt for washable rugs to maintain the pristine appearance of your updated kitchen. 

  • Enhance Cabinets with Accessories and Drawer Organizers 

 In the kitchen, a significant portion of our time is dedicated to gathering ingredients, cookware, and utensils. Regrettably, storage solutions are often limited to basic flatware organizers. When modernizing your kitchen, make sure to remember the significance of incorporating cabinet accessories that cater to your daily needs. 

Install convenient roll-out trays to optimize the utility of your cabinet spaces. Lazy Susans, corner pullouts, and blind-corner organizers ensure easy accessibility. Maximize efficiency by introducing door mounts, under-shelf baskets, racks, and dividers, all designed to keep lids, utensils, spices, and cookware neatly arranged. 

  • Introduce a Stylish Backsplash 

Enhance your kitchen’s visual appeal with a fresh backsplash. Nowadays, updating your backsplash is as effortless as using peel-and-stick options. 

While the classic white subway tile remains a popular choice, there’s a wide array of sizes, shapes, and colors to explore. These tiles are predominantly crafted from ceramic, porcelain, or glass. 

Installing a new backsplash can add personality and color to your kitchen. Consider using peel-and-stick tiles for an easy and mess-free installation. Alternatively, you can create a backsplash with paint, stencils, or removable wallpaper for a more temporary update. 

Keep in mind that tiles with smaller sizes and more intricate textures might require extra effort to keep clean. Once you’ve settled on the tile, the next decision is the grout color. Generally, opting for a shade that closely matches the tile itself creates a harmonious look. However, you have the option to introduce contrast by selecting a darker, lighter, or even metallic hue. 

Designers often utilize herringbone or vertical lines to utilize the vertical space above the range. And why limit yourself to the standard three-inch sink splash? Consider extending the backsplash all the way to the upper cabinets or ceiling for a modern touch. Adding metal trim along exposed edges can provide a polished finish. 

For a burst of color or a captivating backdrop, you might consider applying spatter-proof wallpaper. Whether you adorn an accent wall or cover all walls, ensure a thoughtful balance of color and pattern throughout the space. 

Finally, remember, before you start any DIY project, it’s important to plan ahead, gather all the necessary tools and materials, and have a clear understanding of the steps involved. Also, make sure to take safety precautions, and if a project seems beyond your skill level, don’t hesitate to consult professionals.

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