Kitchens are often the ones that most abuse and wear out any room in our homes. They’re also often the last room we think about redecorating because “only” you see it. Your kitchen should be as fabulous as you are and encourage culinary creativity, great conversation and expressing your personality. Here are some of my tips for quick and easy “refreshers” that will transform your kitchen from blah to hooray for under $100.
Paint: the essential ingredient in a clean and fresh kitchen.
If your walls are dirty and stained, you won’t feel great cooking or chatting in the kitchen. Simply put, paint is the most versatile decorating tool available that can so easily transform a space while being so affordable. Paint your walls in a new and exquisite color; my favorites right now are saffron yellows, celery leaves, and rich warm egg custards for the kitchen. A new color will go a long way to lighten and brighten your kitchen. When you’re done with the walls, ceilings, and trim, don’t forget the cabinets. Give them a whole new look. Try painting your island or peninsula one color (perhaps a deep chocolate) and your wall cabinets another color (a warm cream). Melamine paint is best for kitchen cabinets as it is very durable and easy to clean. Don’t feel limited; almost anything can be painted with the right primer and a little prep work.
splash guard.
Think of your backsplash as the finishing touch to a really cool outfit. It should be sexy and stylish, yet functional and easy to maintain. By changing or upgrading your backsplash, you’ll completely elevate the look of your kitchen. For a cool, retro look try using white ceramic tiles, they are readily available, very inexpensive and easy to install. Another one of my favorites (albeit a little more expensive) is to use stone tiles with a pillow border. This will give your kitchen a grand and stately feel. Or if you’re feeling sexy and chic, go to a metal wholesaler (with your exact measurements) and try using some brushed stainless steel panels, you’ll be the talk of your neighborhood.
Cabinet hardware.
By changing your hardware, you can transform a boring kitchen into something sexy and eye-catching. I recommend making a statement: try using oversized (12″ or 16″) stainless steel rod pulls on all of your cabinets for a sleek and sexy designer look. Other options might be to go to a salvage store and find authentic retro glass knobs or bone pulls. You can literally get hundreds of great designs, just go on the prowl and find something that captures your imagination.
Accessories and Furniture.
The biggest culprit in foiling a new kitchen makeover is clutter, or as I often say, edit-edit-edit. Chances are if you haven’t touched the bread machine in three years, you don’t need it! Put away all the junk clutter, bad gifts, and design hodgepodge. Remove everything from your countertops and then put back just the things you use most often and find a home for the rest. Then add some design elements to the space, like an oversized glass-top jar filled with fresh ingredients, and when possible, upgrade some of your countertop appliances with sleek new stainless steel models.
Window treatments.
With the incredible variety and availability of attractive new window treatments, you can find the perfect complement to any décor. Try classic zen-feel burnt matchstick wooden shutters, or my favorite clean and fresh roman blinds. Spend a weekend and clean, prep, paint and design your fresh new kitchen. You will be amazed at the difference it makes not only in the enjoyment of your home, but also in how it makes you feel. Isn’t it time to feel sexy, fresh and new?
