Updating cabinetry is a great way to give your kitchen a quick lift.

“We’ve probably all been there; tired of the look and feel of our kitchen but unable to take on a full renovation either because of time or money, or both! The good news is that there are a myriad of ways to update your kitchen without tackling a complete overhaul and most can be done in a single weekend. I’ve listed my favourite ways to give you some inspiration.

“You can do any or all of these — but be warned, once you start, there is often a domino effect. What you don’t touch, might all of a sudden be screaming for attention when everything else is looking fresh and new.”

1. START AT THE START

Often just a fresh coat of paint is all that is needed to freshen up a tired kitchen — especially if it is a new paint colour.

2. UPDATE YOUR CABINETRY

Keep the carcasses (internal structure of the cupboards) as they are, but remove and either repaint, refinish or replace the doors and knobs. You will be amazed at the difference this can make. On a recent project, I added two new doors to a pantry cupboard and put mesh in the doors providing a glimpse inside the cupboard as well as ventilation for the veggies, and the effect was spectacular — as well as functional.

3. UPDATE YOUR BENCHTOPS

If your bench tops are tile, timber or laminate, in some cases you can paint them, which can completely rejuvenate both the bench top and the kitchen. If they are outdated marble or granite (yes, there was a time when dark green was the all the rage) it is best to replace them, but it may be possible to put a new surface on your old bench tops, which really save on costs.

4. CHANGE YOUR SPLASHBACK

A bold splashback is a simple way to change up the colour scheme.Source:Supplied

Much like the cupboard doors, changing the colour or material of your splashback can have an incredible lifting effect on the whole kitchen, especially if it has a prominent place in the kitchen.

5. UPDATE YOUR APPLIANCES

This one is extra fun, because you also get that boost of efficiency that comes with new appliances. If you are replacing large appliances such as your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, etc, keep to the same dimensions to keep costs down. Integrating appliances brings a minimal, clean look to a kitchen, but the joinery that is needed will add to your costs.

6. REPLACE YOUR TAPWARE

Perhaps you’ll opt for new tapware or benchtops?Source:istock

You would be surprised how easy it is to replace the tapware in your kitchen — or even your sink — and possibly even more surprised by the impact it can have on the visual appeal of the space. Some taps today are almost works of art!

7. UPDATE YOUR FLOORING

Timber flooring looks great in this kitchen.Source:News Corp Australia

You can sand and restain or paint existing timber boards, or cover your existing floor with new tiles or timber boards. Just pay attention to whether a slightly raised floor will interfere with doorways.

Bonus tip: This takes it to the next level, but if you have time, money and the room, consider raising the ceiling height to create a greater sense of space. Alternatively, lower a section of the ceiling and use back lighting which creates the most gorgeous glow of light to create mood in the room. Depending on the style of the kitchen, you can also add timber slats or beams which enhance a space both visually and acoustically.”

For more kitchen update inspiration, head to the original article at Inside Out.

You can also check out Marylou’s website.