Small Touches Can Spice Up the Kitchen

By Paulette Sodemann

You may have a beautiful, functional kitchen, but you’re a little tired of the “sameness” of it. There are several ways you can spice it up without breaking the bank.

Hardware: One of the quickest fixes that can change the look of a kitchen is changing out the drawer pulls and cabinet knobs.  There are so many different styles and finishes to choose from that will let you get more artistic and add more flair.  If you have a beverage center or wet or dry bar, look for something unique, like bottle shaped handles or a martini glass.  Have fun and personalize it.

Lighting: Another simple way to change the look is replacing your pendant lighting or over-the-table fixture with something more dramatic.  As with hardware, there are so many unique pieces in the marketplace that you can choose from to add your own personality without making a permanent change.

Faucets: Looking to make a big impact with little input?  Just make sure when you are changing out the faucet, you match the openings already there, or you might be replacing the sink too.  While on the subject of sinks, they can be very detailed too.  You could make a statement with a copper sink or a farmhouse sink.  Consider that this change might be with you a little longer, so choose something you know you can live with.

Cabinet doors: While this is a job that may take more than one Saturday afternoon, you can change the finish with a different hue of varnish.  Kitchen islands are a great place to experiment with the bold color that you always wanted, without making it overwhelming by extending it to all kitchen cabinets.  If you want a more expensive option, consider changing your island countertop to be different than your wall counters.

Backsplash: Refresh your kitchen and add a focal point by replacing or adding a backsplash.  There are almost unlimited material choices, colors, and patterns to choose from.  Want some bling? Then incorporate some crackle glass, or metal tiles.  Add dimension or texture with a decorative listello.  Draw interest by putting three to six rows of glass to contrast with field tile.  You can really let your creative interests run wild.

Paint: One of the easiest changes, as you can experiment with a bright, bold color on one wall and complement it with softer shades on the others.  Or consider painting just the trim – door frames, window moldings, baseboards.  And if you don’t like the look, you can always change it.