Simple Tricks to Freshen Up Your Kitchen

In almost all homes, kitchens are the heart of the house and they get used so much that after a while, they just lose their sparkle. That’s the time to consider giving it some TLC to freshen it up and restore its shine.

However, kitchen remodels can be quite expensive and you might not be ready yet to give it an overhaul, but there are still simple tricks you can use that will transform your kitchen and make it glorious again. 

Clean and declutter

The first step to freshening up your kitchen is giving it a thorough clean and getting rid of all clutter. Take a look at your counters and peek into your cupboards and remove everything that you haven’t used in a while. Then, start cleaning! Mix two teaspoons of eucalyptus oil, a teaspoon of washing-up liquid and some water into a spray bottle. Spray it on grease and grime on and around stovetops and your countertops, scrub clean your microwave, clear out the fridge and wipe down cabinet fronts and handles. 

Repaint your cabinets 

Once your kitchen is sparkling clean, it might still lack brightness and colour. Just because it mainly needs to be functional, it doesn’t mean it should be soulless and dull. You can hang some art on the walls or you can take an artistic approach to repainting the cabinetry.

For instance, consider painting your upper and lower cabinets in different shades. This is a huge trend now that gives a classy and modern vibe to kitchens. The outcome feels very intentional and chic but not at all mismatched.

Add colour and pattern

Continue avoiding the neutral territory when it comes to your kitchen décor – don't leave it all in beige, grey or white. You'll miss out on the opportunity to introduce lively colors and patterns that will make your kitchen feel warmer and homier. It doesn't have to be a major project, just focus on the splashback. If your kitchen cabinets are in classy shades of white, navy blue, dark green or charcoal, the splashback is the place where you can add pops of colour that will bring in the magic. 

Splashback tiles go perfectly well with solid surfaces. They add a rustic element that can soften a modern kitchen. You can opt for Spanish and Moroccan tiles and their playful colours or go for something custom-made to add a personal touch. 

Update old appliances 

Good-quality appliances can instantly uplift a kitchen and boost its overall value. It’s a bit pricier than others, but while you’re using the kitchen, the new features and functionality of high-quality electrical appliances can save you lots of time on cleaning and food preparation. 

The latest surveys show that around 47% of renovators opt for a gas cooktop, followed by 31% with induction and 135 with electric ones. Stainless steel appliances are still the most popular kind chosen by 61% of renovators. Right after them, black appliances are growing in popularity recently, followed by white chosen by 9% of respondents.

Install new lighting

Light fittings are the elements that date faster than anything else in a home, so consider switching them up for something more contemporary such as some pendant lighting. Also, install dimmer switches – it’s a quick and easy job and well worth it as it gives you the option of changing light intensity depending on what you’re currently doing – maybe having a family meal or catching up on some belted work on your laptop.

Replace hardware

Kitchen hardware also ages fast and as much as they’re a small detail, they are important because they're like kitchen jewellery. If you don’t go too much outside-of-the-box with your cabinet finishes, hardware is that sculpted, unique element that you can introduce into your kitchen.

Well-crafted, warm brass hardware is a timeless material that also lets you control the patina by polishing it to be shiny or allowing it to dull to a warm lustre hue. If you'd rather go with steel to match your stainless steel appliances, make sure you keep the finish smudge-free.  

Make it cosy and welcoming

The best ornament in any kitchen is the people who make you happy. When you're all together in your kitchen, it makes everything a bit nicer and brighter so make them feel welcome. Redesign your eating area – make a built-in banquette and install soft, comfortable seating as you have in the living room. It will also maximize your seating space, it’s fun, inviting and very comfy. 

There are many different ways you can freshen up your kitchen, but it all comes down to what works for you and your budget. This kitchen refresh plan can be the starting point that will lead you to the kitchen of your dreams!