Revive Your Dated Kitchen With These Inspiring Design Ideas

The idea of upgrading one's kitchen can be intimidating. While this room in the house tends to bring the highest value, it also tends to be the most expensive to alter. If you have an outdated kitchen, you may feel torn between the desire for something fresh and new and the fear of breaking your budget.

Fortunately, you can make plenty of small changes to upgrade your kitchen and bring it into this decade. Here are some inspiring design ideas to get you started.

Update the Cabinetry

The cabinets are perhaps the most eye-catching and overwhelming design feature within the kitchen. As such, making a few small upgrades to the cabinets can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of this important room.

If you have older cabinets with outdated designs— here's looking at you, oak cathedral cuts— consider swapping them out with white shaker cabinetry. This neutral design is timeless and simple, enduring over decades without going out of style.

If a full replacement is out of budget, you can replace the cabinet doors or fixtures, applying paint as needed to modernize the kitchen's atmosphere.

Consider showing off part of your kitchenware like porcelain tea sets or minimalistic dishes to add a fresh look to your kitchen countertops. Adding some family photos on the doors and artwork will help you add personality to your space and create homey vibes for your family gatherings.

Swap Out the Lighting

Lighting is another decor element that dates a room. Ironically, many of the newest lighting trends have a vintage feel with modernized elements. However, if your kitchen still features outdated contractor fixtures or overpowering brass elements, it's time for an upgrade.

Consider installing sculptural or statement lighting to make a big statement in your outdated kitchen. Adding various light sources or dimmer switches can also help you change the room's atmosphere to suit its functionality or mood. With many people working or schooling from home, the kitchen has become a multipurpose area where people both enjoy their work and enjoy meals; altering the light can help transition from a state of focus to relaxation.

Refresh Your Backsplash

If you don't already have a backsplash, adding this simple kitchen upgrade will enhance the feel of the room and add value to your home. Consider installing a lighter backsplash that reflects light and creates the illusion of extra space in the kitchen. Adding a backsplash also helps keep the kitchen looking fresh and tidy.

If you have an outdated backsplash, upgrade it with a coat of paint and gloss. Get creative and use stencils for extra flair.

Create Function and Flow

Many outdated kitchens lack the function and flow of modern designs. If your kitchen feels cramped or impractical, consider reorganizing the set-up to fit the kitchen triangle theory better: a triangle between the stove, fridge, and sink.

If your kitchen is "too" open concept, add a breakfast bar or island to create separation and make room for people to sit and gather. This upgrade is an excellent addition to a family home.

Revisit Your Art Displays

Kitchen art traditionally consisted of oversized wooden cutlery, artsy photos of coffee mugs, and signs reading "live, laugh, love." Consider refreshing your existing displays with something more modern, like an oversized statement piece or open shelving wall displaying curated colorful dishes.

With these austere upgrades, you can breathe new life into your outdated kitchen and make your house feel more like home!