Thinking about giving your kitchen a fresh look but worried about the cost? Many of us dream of a kitchen makeover but hesitate at the thought of a hefty renovation bill and the impact of that kind of project. Luckily, there are plenty of smart and affordable ways to breathe new life into your kitchen without emptying your bank account. We’ve rounded up some of the best ideas to get your kitchen looking its best without the stress of a major remodel.
Change Cabinet Hardware
Swapping out old cabinet handles and drawer pulls for new ones is an easy and cost-effective way to refresh your kitchen’s appearance. This small change can make a big impact on the overall aesthetic, offering a modern or classic look depending on your selection. Options like matte black, brushed brass and stainless steel are trendy right now.
Paint the Cabinets
Giving your cabinets a fresh coat of paint can dramatically transform the look a tired kitchen. Choose a color that complements your kitchen’s theme for a cohesive and updated appearance. This project can be a bit more time-consuming but is still a budget-friendly way to achieve a significant change. It’s hard to go wrong with white cabinets but bold colors, especially for an island can be a fun choice too.
Change Lighting
Updating the lighting fixtures can brighten your kitchen and give it a contemporary feel. Whether it’s pendant lights over the island or a new, stylish chandelier, new lighting can change the ambiance of the space without a major overhaul. If you’re kitchen only has overhead lights right now, some specific task lighting can make a big difference.
Install Under Cabinet Lighting
Along those lines, under cabinet lighting is not only practical for illuminating your workspace but also adds a warm glow to your kitchen, which can be a nice mood lifter in the evening. This addition is surprisingly affordable and can be installed with minimal electrical knowledge, making your kitchen look more luxurious and well-designed.
Change the Faucet
Replacing an outdated faucet with a new model can instantly modernize your kitchen sink area. With countless designs and features available, you can add a touch of elegance or a high-tech element to your kitchen without a major remodel. Most older kitchens or builder-grade houses comes with smaller faucets, updating to a larger model makes a noticeable impact on the aesthetic and it’s also much more functional.
Install Open Shelving
Adding open shelving offers a trendy way to display your dishes, glassware, and decorative items, making your kitchen feel more open and airy. It’s an excellent way to add a personal touch and visual interest to their kitchen without the cost of new cabinets and the options are endless from floating shelves to glass shelves or an industrial look with metal brackets. Plus, it encourages you to keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.
Replace Cabinet Doors
If your cabinet boxes are in good condition, replacing just the doors can give your kitchen a completely new look. This approach allows you to update the style of your cabinets without the expense of full replacements. Choose from various styles and finishes to match your kitchen’s decor for a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. A clean shaker cabinet is timeless and can really modernize the room.
Give Your Countertop Appliances an Upgrade
Upgrading your countertop appliances like a tea kettle, toaster oven and coffee maker to more modern and efficient models is one of the most cost effective ways to give your kitchen a facelift. Look for options that not only perform well but also complement your kitchen’s design. This small investment can make the space look more cohesive and fun.
Replace the Sink
Depending on the type of sink you have, installing a new one is a project most handy people can manage on their own. A new sink can be a nice focal point, especially when paired with a new faucet.. With various materials and styles available, you can choose what suits you best but our favorite option is a large basin sink for the functionality that split sinks just don’t offer. Whether you opt for a large farmhouse sink or a sleek stainless steel version, this update can make your kitchen feel brand new.
Create a Coffee Station
Designating a special area in your kitchen for a coffee station can add a cozy and inviting element to the space. Equip it with a stylish coffee maker, your favorite mugs, and all the essentials for your morning brew. Using things like cute glass containers and stoneware can really make this little nook shine. It’s a charming option without a hefty price tag.
Consider Cost-Effective Backsplashes
Updating your backsplash is a fantastic way to inject color and texture into your kitchen. This is even easier to do if you don’t currently have a backsplash. There are many affordable options available, such as peel-and-stick tiles or wallpaper that are easy to install and can dramatically change the look of your space.
11 Essential Herbs You Should Be Growing Right Now To Save Money
Thinking about growing your own herbs but wondering if it’s worth the effort? Not only is it easier than you might imagine, but it’s also a serious money saver, especially when these herbs are in season. If you’ve ever balked at the price of a tiny plastic packet of fresh herbs at the grocery store, consider growing your own whether in a garden or indoors in pots. These 11 foolproof herbs are the perfect ones to start with.
See Them Here: 11 Essential Herbs You Should Be Growing Right Now To Save Money
What’s Fact? What’s Fiction? The Real Scoop On 13 Aphrodisiac Foods
Ever noticed how some foods, like oysters and chocolate, get all the credit for sparking romance, while others barely get a mention? We’re shining a light on the whole aphrodisiac menu, from headliners to the lesser-known foods and supplements out there. Some might not be as well known, but actually come with a bit of scientific backing for their libido-boosting effects.
This list is split into two: the myths and the maybe’s. On one side, we have foods celebrated through the ages more for their symbolic meanings or suggestive shapes than any proven effects. On the other, there are those with a handful of studies suggesting they might actually do something to get the sparks flying. Once you know the difference you can decide which ones you might want on your plate.
Read More Here: What’s Fact? What’s Fiction? The Real Scoop On 13 Aphrodisiac Foods
11 Simple Snacks for Better Blood Sugar Control
Keeping your blood sugar in check doesn’t mean you have to skimp on snacking. In fact, the right snacks can be your secret weapon in maintaining those levels while still satisfying those mid-day cravings. Pairing up the good stuff—fiber, proteins, and healthy fats—can help to keep blood sugar steady. These snack ideas are as delicious as they are smart for your health.
See Them Here: 11 Simple Snacks for Better Blood Sugar Control
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
