Drab To Delightful: How To Upgrade Your Kitchen In A Weekend

Photo by Lotus Design N Print on Unsplash

Many homeowners imagine that upgrading their kitchen is a long and tiring process. They tell themselves it’s something that takes weeks and will involve massive disruption to their lives, perhaps even to the point where they have to move out and go and live in a hotel. The truth is quite different. There are actually some very smart and intelligent ways to upgrade the appearance of your kitchen that don’t require much more than just a weekend. Here’s what to do:

Modernize the hardware

The easiest place to start is with modernising your hardware. Many people refer to the fixtures and fittings of the kitchen as the “jewellery of the room.” If you can upgrade this, then you are essentially accessorising the space, changing the vibe and how it feels. Usually, you don’t have to drill any new holes or patch up old ones if you shop cabinet hardware online with the same measurements. 

Even if you do have to fill holes, it’s not the end of the world. These days, there are very good wood putties you can use, and painting over them only takes a few minutes.

Peel and stick backsplash

You’ve probably seen interior design magazines that showcase stunning handmade mosaic backsplashes behind the oven and the sink. These often take weeks to prepare and make, and require a skilled expert to install them.

If you want something quick that you can do in a weekend, go for a peel-and-stick backsplash. All it requires is a smooth drywall or old tile surface. You peel off the back, stick it on, and leave it to set. They instantly add depth and protect your walls from any splashes from where you’re washing up or preparing food.

Under cabinet lighting

Another option is to opt for under-cabinet lighting. Dark counter tops can make kitchens feel small and gloomy, but if you have under-cabinet lighting, it can completely transform how the room feels. The good news is that LED lighting strips are very inexpensive and easy to apply. All you need to do is stick them underneath your cupboard or screw them on according to instructions. Usually, you can get an LED lighting kit for a kitchen for less than $30, which is nothing when you consider the impact that it has on the room’s aesthetics. 

Swap out the old faucet for a new one

Finally, you might want to look into swapping out your old faucet for a new one. If you have a low-profile stainless steel tap or a faucet with plastic elements, then it probably is time to change it out. Once you do, you’ll notice how much of a massive difference it makes to the quality of your kitchen and how it feels. 

Many people swap old faucets for sleek high-arc gooseneck faucets with pull-down sprayers. Not only do these make the kitchen look more luxurious, but they are also more practical for when you’re washing up dishes or filling pots. Pair with wood or marble cutting boards for the ultimate finish.