It’s a new year and nothing says resolution like renovation. Time to strip away the old and make something sensational in your kitchen. This often overlooked area is usually one of the first things homeowners want to replace or reimagine but kitchen trends change constantly, so renovating may seem like a daunting task to the average homeowner. But have no fear, we’ve put together this quintessential collection of tips for anyone who’s looking to transform their kitchen from something expected to something exceptional.

Upcycle your cabinets

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Updating cabinets is easy, elegant, and cost-effective. Surveys show that cabinets are almost always the first thing people dislike or want to change about their layout. You can’t always put your finger on it but you just know that something is wrong or the style is out of date. Full cabinet replacement is costly and requires an expert but the cabinet makeover you’ve been dreaming about only has to cost you a can of paint. It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do to change the palette and potential of a room. Add some light to the room with a fresh coat of white or set the mood with a bolder shade like black or navy blue.

Update your backsplash

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A new backsplash can add a fresh element or a unique accent to liven up your counterspace. If your kitchen doesn’t already have a tile backsplash, then there’s nothing stopping you from buying a little tile adhesive and grout, and starting your renovation today. If you do have an existing backsplash, then some demolition and deconstruction may be required. However, don’t fret because tilework is easier than ever thanks to the incredible pre-made tile patterns and fabric-backed tile sheets which take the guesswork out of patterning, guaranteeing a clean, even backsplash every time. Go to the store and buy a few different varieties of tile and start comparing them to your color scheme. Play around with your tile swatches until you find a scheme and pattern that works for your layout.

Add in some lighting

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Sconces, chandeliers, and pendant lights are all pretty easy to replace, and involve little chance of damage to the surface level of your drywall or stucco. Recessed lighting is a little more difficult but isn’t impossible by any means. Adding a fixture will require the assistance of a trained electrician but in most cases a simple fixture replacement can make all the difference in the world. Just make sure that the outlet’s wattage can accommodate for the output of your new fixture. You can’t really make swatches for different lighting fixtures, so when you’re shopping around make sure to consider whether the light is essential task lighting or if it functions more as accent light. Also, make sure your space can accommodate the size of your new fixture. You wouldn’t want a 10-foot chandelier in a room with 9-foot ceilings.

Replace the faucets

Fancy new fixtures are a great way to treat yourself and wow your guests. Featured here is a VIGO Sterling with a unique braided-coil design and detachable spray head. Its classic gold finish oozes traditional elegance while its stunningly modern silhouette bears a profile that’s simply beyond expectation. A sophisticated new sink or fixture could be exactly what your newly renovated design deserves just remember to make sure your finishes match the rest of your kitchen. Your current fixture may clash with the rest of your color palette, so finding the right finish could be the start of a beautiful renovation.

Replace the handles and knobs

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Speaking of matching finishes and correcting color schemes — nothing brings a room together like matching hardware. Brass, silver, gold, brushed nickel, and matte black aren’t just a finish, they’re a potential new beginning. Give your cabinets a throwback look with a series of faded patina adornments or go with something ultra-modern like gold or a minimalist chrome finish. No matter what you decide for your design and palette, just remember that the handles and knobs are the cherry on top.

Clean or refinish your flooring

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A complete overhaul can be costly but you don’t always have to replace your floor to reinvigorate your space. A deep clean or a refinishing can give your kitchen a new, fresh look without going overbudget. Cleaning out grout lines in a tile floor can really bring back its luster and luxury, while a new coat of finish can revitalize the surface of wood flooring. Some of these practices aren’t just good for the style of your home but for its overall health and longevity. Maintaining the various surfaces within your home is a surefire way to maintain the integrity and quality of your kitchen. Never forget that a little hard work and elbow grease go a long way.

Try one, try a few, try them all. No matter which tip you try just remember that it’s your kitchen and it’s your design. Do what feels right, try new things and we’re sure that you’ll come up with something truly spectacular. Have fun and don’t forget to tag us in your final design on Instagram! We can’t wait to see what you come up with!

6 WAYS TO GIVE YOUR KITCHEN A NEW LOOK IN THE NEW YEAR