The kitchen is the heart of a home, so it should be both a welcoming and useful room. If a kitchen is outdated, it can be a major source of stress and frustration to fix up. After all, the kitchen is one of the essential areas in the house, so it should be an enjoyable place to spend time. Thankfully, there are tons of ways to spruce up an outdated kitchen with ease.

Although kitchen renovations are exciting to undertake, there are still many ways to touch up if you’re not ready to take on a significant renovation project. With a little effort and some elbow grease, you can transform your kitchen into the space of your dreams.

Here are eight ways to spruce up an outdated kitchen:

1. Give Your Cabinets a Makeover

If your kitchen cabinets look a little dated, give them a makeover! Cabinet refinishing is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to update the look of your kitchen. You can choose to refinish your cabinets with a light or dark color of paint, depending on your style. If you want to add a pop to your kitchen, consider painting your cabinets a vibrant hue. For a more subdued look, use a classic white or cream color. 

Furthermore, you can add new hardware to your kitchen cabinets to give them a fun new look. Choose hardware that complements the design of your kitchen for the best results.

2. Update the Countertops

Replacing old and worn-out countertops is another excellent way to update the look of your kitchen. If you have laminate countertops, consider replacing them with stone or granite. These materials are not only more durable, but they also add a touch of luxury to your kitchen. But, if you’re on a budget, you can also opt for laminate countertops that mimic a similar look to the stone. 

3. Add a Backsplash

Another simple way to update your kitchen is to add a backsplash. A backsplash is a strip of material, usually tile, that extends from the top of the countertop to the base of the cabinets. Its purpose is functional and aesthetic; it protects the wall from splashes and stains from cooking and adds visual interest to the kitchen. When selecting a backsplash, go for something that complements your kitchen’s existing colors and design. 

If your kitchen is small, avoid using busy patterns or dark colors, as they’ll make the space appear even smaller. Instead, opt for light colors and simple designs.

lori morris x cameo kitchen backsplash
Design by Lori Morris for Cameo Kitchens (Photo by Brandon Barré)

4. Replace the Sink

An outdated sink can be one of the most important ways to spruce up an outdated kitchen. Old sinks make even the most modern kitchen look unpleasant, so choosing a new one is an essential first step in any kitchen remodel. There are a wide variety of sink styles to choose from, so you can find one that fits your aesthetic and functional needs. For example, if you’re looking for a more traditional look, you might opt for a farmhouse-style sink. However, you might choose a wall-mounted or under-mount sink if your counter space is limited. 

5. Get New Appliances

New appliances can make a big difference in how your kitchen looks and can also help improve the function of the space. If your current appliances are outdated or no longer working correctly, it might be time to invest in new ones. When selecting devices, consider both your needs as well as your budget. You don’t need to buy the most expensive appliances on the market. On the other hand, you wouldn’t want to choose the cheapest ones, as they likely won’t last long. 

6. Make a Statement With New Barstools

If your kitchen features a counter space that allows for barstools, make a new design statement by updating the stools. Look for a design that offers both comfort and style, and this new addition will instantly make your kitchen feel less outdated. When considering styles decide if you want the stools to be able to tuck under your counter or if you prefer a more statement look with a back. Be sure to select a durable fabric, as should be the case whenever food and textiles mix.

koket flora sconce gia pendant besame bar stools update outdated kitchen
Interior by KOKET

7. Install New Lighting

Proper lighting is essential in any room, but it’s imperative in the kitchen. Poor lighting can make it difficult to see while you’re cooking and can make the space look dark. Installing new light fixtures is a great way to brighten up your kitchen as it can create a more inviting space. 

As previously mentioned, selecting items that go well with your kitchen’s design can significantly alter your room’s appearance.

8. Paint the Walls

If your kitchen walls look drab, consider painting them a new color. This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to spruce up an outdated kitchen. Choose a color that harmonizes with the other colors in your kitchen. If you’re unsure what to choose, pick neutral colors for your painting projects because you can never go wrong with them. Plus, you have more flexibility with decor and fun accents to decorate.

Interior by Kris Turnbull featuring KOKET Dining Chairs & Pendants
Interior by Kris Turnbull featuring KOKET Dining Chairs & Pendants

9. Lay Down a Rug

Adding a small area rug or a runner if you have the space is a simple yet powerful way to update your kitchen. When selecting your rug, consider how to position it in the space for optimal flow and appeal. Also, be sure to consider the material as you will want something durable and, ideally, something that can handle unavoidable kitchen spills.

10. Add New Accessories

Once you’ve made the more considerable changes in your kitchen, it’s time to focus on the more minor details. Adding new accessories is a great way to give your kitchen a fresh look without breaking the bank. Look for new dishtowels, pot holders, and other small items that can add a pop of color or pattern to your kitchen. 

Wrapping Up

Following these simple tips can give your kitchen a fresh, new look without spending a fortune. With a little hard work and creativity, you can have the kitchen of your dreams in no time.


More to Love!

Kitchen Design Tips To Reimagine Your Luxury Home in 2022
How To Create Beautiful and Functional Dream Kitchens