Want to spruce up your kitchen but stuck on a tight budget? Don’t worry, I have a few ideas for improvements that you can get started on for under $100. These tips can bring your kitchen back to life. They will also come in handy when you’re ready to list your home to sell on the market.
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Do you want to fall in love with your kitchen? Here are 10 simple improvements that you can start implementing this weekend, and bring life back into your kitchen.
1. REPLACE OUTLET PLATES
One of the quickest and easiest updates is to replace outdated wall plates for your light switches and outlets. If your outlet plates look faded, yellow or chipped, they’re a cheap fix and easy to replace. Light switch covers come in many different styles and colors. Simple plain white covers would be the cheapest route, or you can add some character to it by using bold patterns, bright colors or elegant textures.
2. CHANGE OUT THE LIGHT FIXTURES
Another simple change is to swap out your light fixtures. You would be surprised how a new light fixture changes the whole look of the kitchen. A decorative light fixture doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. You can generally find some decent ones that are under $100. Oil rubbed bronze can add a little warmth to the room, or go for a chrome finish, brushed nickel or choose the rustic route, whichever suits the current decor in your kitchen. You can also add LED tape lights under your kitchen cabinets for around $10-$20.
3. PAINT THE CABINETS
Refreshing the paint color or the stain can make your kitchen feel brand new. You can generally get a cabinet paint kit for around $75, and if you use care in the prep work, you can have your cabinets looking new in no time. If you couple this trick along with the next tip, it will make you feel like you have walked into a brand new room.
4. CHANGE HARDWARE
Replacing the hardware on your kitchen cabinets and drawers is an age old trick, but it is proven to make drastic changes. Not only can you get rid of hideous outdated hardware, but you can add a completely new feel to the theme of your kitchen just by updating the hardware throughout. If you couple this trick along with painting your cabinets, you will not believe your eyes.
5. DRESS UP YOUR DECOR
Bring some color into your kitchen. Throw out decor that looks like it belongs in the 90’s, rugs that are falling apart, and anything else that weighs down a fresh look. Add in some new rugs and hand towels that match your personality and the theme you’re trying to achieve. Add some plants and decorative pieces to add character.
6. CLEAN UP THE CLUTTER
The absolute best cleaning tip I can give all my clients is to remove the clutter. And it’s FREE! Nothing is a bigger eye sore than too many things. Not to mention, the more things you have sitting out, the more things you will have to clean. Throw out things that you don’t use on a regular basis, or things that are taking up too much space. If it’s sentimental, see if you can store it in a new place, or even donate it to a good cause (if you want to hold on to the memories, make sure you take a picture of it before getting rid of it).
7. TURN YOUR OUTDATED FRIDGE INTO A CHALKBOARD
Chalkboard finishes are a hot trend, especially on the fridge! They add more functionality by allowing home owners to write grocery lists, menus, and even to-dos. Use painters tape to outline the shape and size you want to use as the chalkboard then coat it with magnetic primer, then add chalkboard paint. Voila! You have now created a fun, functional update in your kitchen. Don’t want to paint your fridge? No problem, try adding the chalkboard paint to an empty wall, pantry door, or under the bar (kids love this idea!).
8. EXPAND STORAGE
Have empty wall space? Search your local home stores for cute baskets or storage containers you can use to fill the space. Not only can it add some character to your kitchen, it also adds functionality and more storage options. A feature buyers love if you’re thinking of listing your home.
9. REFRESH THE SINK
Refresh your sink with a good cleaning. Making a paste with baking soda, white vinegar and dawn dish soap will usually do the trick. Add a little freshly squeezed lemon juice for a fresh clean scent. If your sink is starting to look outdated, simply adding a new faucet will give it a quick update. Adding a stylish soap dispenser will also jazz it up.
10. PAINT THE WALLS
Painting the walls a clean crisp color is a sure fire way to update any space. Dark colors tend to make spaces look small and cramped, so go for colors that are soft, light and airy like white, gray, seafoam, or greige. Feel free to hop on over to this post, where I go a little more into detail on paint colors.
Be creative! But most of all, have fun!
If you are in the Charlotte Metro and surrounding areas, or thinking about relocating to this beautiful state, contact me. I would love to help you elevate your living with home ownership!
Unlocking the door to your dreams,
Sandy Brest
