5 Ways To Update Your Kitchen Cabinets
Cabinets are an eye-catching element of any kitchen, making them one of the most impactful areas to update during a remodel. Fortunately, a refresh doesn’t always require a complete replacement.
You can achieve stunning results on a smaller budget with these five simple ways to update your kitchen cabinets.
Repaint or Refinish
Repainting or refinishing your cabinets is ideal if you want a dramatic transformation while keeping your budget in check. Expect the cost to range from $200 to $800, depending on your kitchen’s size and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional.
Your options include:
- Paint: Refresh your cabinets with a new color. Latex or oil-based paint in satin or semi-gloss finishes hides imperfections and is durable for high-use areas.
- Stain: Enhance your wood cabinets’ natural beauty with a stain that adds warmth and depth.
- Refinish: This involves stripping old paint or stain, sanding the surface, and applying a new finish for a fresh, polished look.
Update the Hardware
If you’re looking for a quick, affordable update, swapping out your cabinet hardware instantly modernizes your kitchen. New hardware makes a big statement and only costs about $50 to $300.
Here are some ideas:
- Add handles or knobs: If your cabinets don’t currently have hardware, install handles or knobs for added style and functionality.
- Change the finish: Replace old-fashioned hardware with updated finishes, such as brushed nickel, matte black, or brass.
- Switch shapes: Opt for round knobs, bar pulls, or purely decorative hardware to match your kitchen’s design.
Add Trim or Molding
Custom cabinet trim makes your kitchen feel more polished. This finishing touch costs between $100 and $500, depending on the style and amount of molding you choose.
Consider these options:
- Crown molding: Installed at the top of your cabinets, crown molding adds a classic touch, perfect for traditional kitchens.
- Toe kicks: Enhance the lower part of your cabinets with decorative toe kick trim.
- Valances: For cabinets near windows, adding a matching valance ties these elements together.
Install Glass Inserts
Glass cabinet doors provide an elegant way to display your favorite dishes or decor.
Look for glass inserts that work with your existing cabinet doors, and expect a cost of $200 to $800 per door.
The top choices include:
- Clear glass: This option is perfect for showing off dishes or glassware.
- Frosted glass: For the visual appeal of glass without exposing what’s inside, consider frosted glass.
- Stained glass: Add a pop of color and texture to your kitchen with custom stained glass inserts.
Convert Your Cabinets to Open Shelving
Open shelving is a popular kitchen trend that creates a more open and modern feel. You can fast-track your way to open shelving by simply removing the doors from your cabinets.
The cost of converting to open shelving ranges from $50 to $300, depending on how much painting or staining is required.
The process involves:
- Removing the doors: This initial step puts your dishes and decor on full display.
- Painting or staining the shelves: With the doors off, you’re free to paint or stain the cabinet interiors and shelves. Either match your kitchen’s design or add pops of color.
- Decorating your shelves: Display knickknacks, small plants, or kitchen essentials for visual appeal and functionality.
Considering a Full Kitchen Remodel?
While updating your cabinets can make a big difference, sometimes a more comprehensive remodel is necessary to achieve the aesthetics, practicality, and storage your kitchen truly needs. If you’re ready for a complete transformation, turn to Green Hill Contracting for expert kitchen remodeling services in Chapel Hill, Cary, Durham, Raleigh, and surrounding areas.
Our process includes free estimates, 3D renderings, and custom designs. With over 30 years of combined experience, we take pride in our ingenuity and attention to detail.
Ready to create the kitchen of your dreams? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
