Transforming your kitchen doesn't require an entire remodel. Discover practical methods to refresh your kitchen's appearance while staying within your budget.

One of the primary targets for kitchen updates are the cabinets. Experts recommend starting with painting as an economical option.

• Painting cabinets yourself can be cost-effective, but ensure thorough research, proper surface preparation, and multiple thin coats to enhance paint longevity.
• Professional spraying costs between $4,000 and $7,000, yet chips may develop within a few years in high-use areas.
• Replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts can help save costs significantly. It's typically around a third or a fourth of what new cabinets would cost, depending on whether you DIY or hire contractors.

If painting or replacing isn't ideal, adding lacquer finishes that mimic factory results is another stylish upgrade. This professional installation will cost from $9,000 to $15,000 but provides a long-lasting effect.

Increasing cabinet height by building extensions to the ceiling can provide a seamless appearance. Hiring a carpenter for this intricate task is advisable to ensure code compliance and finesse.

• Painting existing tiles with the right product is a budget-friendly option but involves careful color selection to suit your kitchen's palette.
• Retiling with subway tiles is both cost-effective and elegant, often ranging between $8 to $20 per square foot.
• For a unique touch, consider beadboard or shiplap as alternatives.

Ensure any alternative materials used as backsplash meet local building codes, especially around cooktops.

Updating cabinet hardware with knobs on doors and pulls on drawers can refresh your kitchen's appearance. Opt for materials that harmonize with your kitchen's color scheme instead of following trends mindlessly, like opting for polished nickel or warm honey bronze over trendy black if it doesn't match other elements in your space.

"Decorating your space with simple tweaks like changing out the knobs, adding a runner, lamp, or greenery goes a long way." Ashley, video host.

Adding accessories like colorful cookbooks, greenery, and strategic lighting can enhance warmth and charm, even on the most limited budget.