While a big-budget kitchen renovation will yield a floor-to-ceiling makeover,
you don’t have to part with tons of cash to yield impressive results. Even just a
small investment toward upgrading features like your backsplash, cabinetry,
flooring, or lighting can offer a surprisingly big payoff.
We asked interior designers to share their best pro tips for upgrading a
kitchen without spending a penny over $100. Best of all, these upgrades will
not only help you and your family enjoy the space more, but can even add
value to your home.
1. Paint your cabinets
A fresh coat of paint across your cabinets is one of the quickest and
most affordable ways to transform your kitchen. This is true whether
you're simply refreshing the existing color or opting for a new hue.
"While a bright white can certainly be compelling, leaning into color can
help elevate the vibe of your kitchen," says interior designer Audrey
Scheck. "Look for muted greens, muddy browns, or ivory to contrast
against white or off-white walls."
2. Upgrade Your Light Fixture
Swap in new pendant lights over the island, or replace a chandelier or
mounted fixture. This inexpensive project shouldn’t take more than an
hour or two, and you’ll be surprised at how much of a difference it can
make to the overall feel and appeal of your kitchen. If you want to save
even more money, consider taking down the old light and freshening it
up with some paint or a new finish before reinstalling.
3. Add a Statement-Making Task Lamp
If electrical work doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, switch up your
kitchen’s lighting game by incorporating a statement-making task lamp.
This interior design trend is gaining momentum and is an easy way to
cozy up the space while adding some character. Thrift for a one-of-a-
kind design or pick up something new that speaks to your style.
4. Lay a New Rug
Replacing your kitchen flooring altogether is a spendy upgrade, but you
can fake the look of new floors by simply laying a new rug or two.
Interior designer Kristin Marino of KozyKasa says this also adds warmth
and comfort to your kitchen while preventing foot fatigue. "Consider
playing with colors and patterns to decorate with the seasons," says
Marino. "Also, ensure you have a quality rug mat underneath to avoid
slipping."
5. Swap in New Hardware
In addition to (or instead of) painting your kitchen cabinets, replace your
existing hardware with something brand new for a modern, updated
look. Alternatively, shine up existing cabinet knobs or give them a fresh
coat of paint.
"Cabinet hardware is similar to most tile and plumbing in that it will start
to feel dated after approximately 20 years," Scheck says. "Our general
rule of thumb is to limit yourself to two metals in any given space. For
example, if your kitchen plumbing is chrome, try using brass or black
cabinet hardware to bring more visual interest to the space."
6. Thrift and Upcycle a Piece of Furniture
If you look often and are quick on the draw, you can absolutely find a
piece of furniture for under $100 and give it a nice facelift. For example,
a vintage work table can be repurposed into a kitchen island, or you can
transform a simple dresser into a sideboard. Of course, you can always
breathe new life into traditional kitchen furniture pieces, like a hutch or
Hoosier cabinet.
7. Spring for a Designer Trash Can
Every kitchen needs a trash bin, but if yours is looking a bit rough these
days, then a simple switch can level-up the space. Cameron Johnson,
founder of Nickson Living, says to opt for a modern designer trash can
that combines both form and function. "This will allow you to hide your
trash in plain sight while adding an accent to your kitchen design," he
says.
8. Create a Sophisticated Gallery Wall
Gallery walls don’t need to remain in the living room—they can
absolutely work in the kitchen, too. Kitchen gallery wall ideas include
everything from a collection of framed art (keep it on theme by featuring
still-life oil paintings of food) or showcasing beautiful plates, cutting
boards, or baskets.
9. Hang New Window Treatments
New window treatments are such a simple way to add a fresh look to
your space. "Choose a lightweight fabric, such as linen, to keep the
space light and airy," says Marino. "Make sure you have a liner to avoid
sun fading."
10. Get Organized
A messy kitchen isn’t just unsightly—it also leads to poor efficiency.
Make your space one you look forward to working in by spending a
weekend reorganizing everything from the countertops to the
cupboards. Get rid of anything you’re not using, tuck away infrequently
used appliances, and leverage storage and organizational solutions
whenever possible.
11. Style Your Countertops
While kitchens certainly need to be functional, it’s also important to find
ways to add some personality and charm to your space.
"Try mixing vertical and horizontal stacks of cookbooks throughout your
kitchen countertops to create varying height," Scheck says. "We also
love to layer in small art pieces to add a pop of color and help to fill any
negative space."
12. Place a Solid Wood Cutting Board Over the
Stove Top
A solid wood cutting board shows the natural grain of the wood and
adds a beautiful, natural, and functional piece to your kitchen, says
Johnson. Plus, they can double as serving platters, work stations,
charcuterie platters, and even drink trays. "Leave the cutting board on
the stove top to make that space functional when not in use and to
upgrade its often industrial look," Johnson says.
13. Refresh Your Grout
Dirty grout may seem like a tiny detail, but you’d be surprised at how
quickly it can make a space feel dingy. Refreshing your grout is another
kitchen upgrade that’s virtually free but can make a huge difference.
14. Install Under-Cabinet Lighting
Install LED under-cabinet lighting to improve both kitchen efficiency and
aesthetic appeal. "It adds a modern touch while also providing practical
task lighting," says Marino. "Opt for motion sensor lights if you can find
them. This will help illuminate your space during your late-night snack
raid."
15. Replace Your Faucet
You’ll be surprised at just how satisfying this easy and affordable kitchen
upgrade is once you’ve completed the task. Simply take out your old
faucet—especially if it’s looking tired, dated, or doesn’t function
well—and replace it with a modern option that fits your aesthetic. Make
sure to turn the water supply off first and follow the directions carefully
for seamless installation.
