Top Changes to Make When Updating Your Kitchen So It Doesn't Look Dated

You don't need to splurge on expensive, large-scale renovations to give your dated kitchen a modern look. Updating your kitchen doesn't always mean starting from scratch. Often, by installing customized cabinet doors and upgrading your lighting setup, you can breathe a modern yet timeless look into the heart of your home.

This guide covers the kitchen elements where an update can have the most significant effect, along with action items to help you get started:

1. Cabinet Hardware and Finishes

One of the most efficient ways to upgrade your kitchen's look is with your cabinets' hardware and finishes. Start simple by replacing your cabinet knobs and pulls with something like a minimalist arch pull. Then, add more character by replacing old kitchen cabinet doors with custom-made ones that blend a traditional look with contemporary lines, making them perfect for most kitchen settings.

If you want to give your dated kitchen a spacious and cleaner feel, move away from conventional cabinet door colors like dark wood or honey tones and opt for white and other similar shades. You can even go for two-tone or open-shelf cabinets to add a bit more personality to your kitchen.

With these cost-efficient and quick upgrades, you improve your kitchen's aesthetic and its functionality. Thanks to the ease of use of cabinets with arch pulls and the low-maintenance finishes of our cabinet doors, you're walking into a kitchen every day that's beautiful and practical.

2. Countertops and Backsplash

While replacing old kitchen cabinet doors is already a strong start, your kitchen's countertops and backsplash also dictate its feel and aesthetic. Similar to your cabinet doors, look for countertops and backsplash that embrace a minimalist aesthetic. If you have countertops with a dated finish, upgrading to quartz, granite or any other modern option will look nice with modern or timeless cabinets.

For your backsplash, upgrading to minimalist options such as subway tiles and large-format tiles will give your kitchen a clean look. Don't skimp on picking stylish color options, too. As neutral color palettes remain the most popular choice in kitchens, white, cream and beige are ideal for backsplash and countertops as well. With these colors and modifications, you're creating a kitchen that will look visually appealing for years to come.

3. Lighting Upgrades

Lighting is one of the most important drivers of mood in a kitchen and a home. Sometimes, lighting alone can convey different sets of feelings and atmosphere, depending on how it is setup. Thus, it's essential that you give it a lot of love and attention. 

You can modernize your kitchen's lighting by replacing outdated light fixtures with modern pendant lights. You can even add under-cabinet lighting for an added layer of warmth in your home's heart. Choose LED-powered lighting solutions to save energy and extend longevity. For color temperature, consider warm tones around 2700–3600 Kelvin, as this is often considered best for general indoor tasks like cooking.

4. Appliances and Fixtures

Your appliances and fixtures also play an important role in your kitchen's overall tone. An old microwave oven will stand out like dated kitchen cabinets, so make sure you include appliances and fixtures in your upgrade plan.

A good place to start with these would be to reface appliances with stainless steel or black matte finishes. Stray away from brass, gold and high-gloss black to complete an understated look that doesn't scream at you and won't be ruined by fingerprints. For fixtures like your sink or faucet, look for ones with a high-arc or industrial-look that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. 

5. Flooring

Another overlooked kitchen element is flooring. Your flooring should complement your kitchen's overall aesthetic, not clash with it. If it looks dated and doesn't harmonize with the rest of your kitchen, it's time for an update. 

Start updating your flooring by replacing ornate patterns with sleek, current options, such as neutral-colored vinyl or polished concrete. You can also pair your new flooring with the colors of your countertops and modern cabinets for a cohesive look.

Apart from aesthetic purposes, your kitchen's flooring is also important because it provides stability and comfort while you cook. It's crucial to pick an option that looks good and is practical by being water-resistant and comfortable.

6. Paint and Wall Treatments

Updating your kitchen's paint and wall treatments is a cost-efficient way of giving the room a rejuvenated look. For a look that's current, avoid paint and wallpapers with flashy accents and opt for neutral tones instead. This gives dated kitchens a refreshed look that feels roomy and elegant. 

Remember to create contrast with your wall paint and flooring, too. For example, if you've already decided on white vinyl flooring, consider these wall colors:

• Sage green or blush pink for a soft contrast
• Beige and taupe for a warm contrast
• Charcoal black for high contrast
• Navy blue for a balanced look

Any of these colors will create a modern contrast in your kitchen, and they pair neatly with our Shaker-style cabinetry for a balanced, timeless aesthetic.

7. Decluttering and Styling

Finally, wrap up your update plan with a strong finish by decluttering and properly styling your kitchen. This will be the element that ties everything nicely together. You can start by removing any unnecessary decorations from countertops to keep them minimal. Then, organize everything in your cabinets neatly so it's accessible. 

It's important to note that while "less is more" is the modern kitchen philosophy, a careful balance between sleek aesthetics and practical functionality is key to maintaining a kitchen that you can admire and still cook dinner in.

Keep a Timeless Kitchen Look With Cabinet Doors 'N' More

Ready to revitalize your kitchen's look and feel? Shop our wide selection for effortless ordering of modern cabinet doors. Most of our products can be ordered in a few clicks, and we offer free shipping with no minimums and discounts on bulk orders.

Our cabinet doors are also:

• Built with high-quality materials
• Custom-tailored for any kitchen layout 
• Made proudly in the USA

If you're interested in leveling up your kitchen while not breaking the bank, learn how to measure and order your products, and contact us today for more information.