9 Tips for Updating Kitchen Cabinets

Updating kitchen cabinets can involve painting or staining, adding storage, replacing doors or hardware, installing glass inserts, adding under-cabinet lighting or crown molding, and using a mirror to reflect light. The right combination depends on the condition of your existing cabinets, the storage you need, and the appearance you want for your kitchen.

Kitchen cabinet updates are one option to consider when planning home improvements. Discussing your plans with a local contractor who works with cabinets can help you explore designs suited to your kitchen.

Here are nine tips for updating kitchen cabinets in your home.

1) Paint Kitchen Cabinets

A simple way to change your existing cabinets is to give them a fresh coat of paint. Painting cabinets can make a difference in the style of your kitchen, and there are many paint colors to consider. For example, you might choose blue kitchen cabinets, or prefer a more traditional white or beige. Choose paint suited to your cabinets and the finish you want.

2) Include More Storage

A lack of storage is a common issue in kitchens. Depending on your layout, you may be able to add cabinets above or below existing cabinets. Removing cabinet doors can create open shelving, although it changes access and appearance rather than adding storage capacity. Discuss your storage needs with a contractor who works on kitchens to help determine which changes suit your home.

3) Replace Cabinet Doors

Replacing cabinet doors is another way to update their appearance. You may want to replace doors because their style is outdated or they have suffered damage. Styles to consider include shaker, raised panel, slab, mullion, and recessed panel. New doors can give your kitchen a fresh appearance; consider their condition and the style you want when deciding whether replacement is appropriate.

4) Update Hardware

Kitchen cabinet updates can include installing new hardware. Stainless steel and brass are options, along with bronze, acrylic, cast iron, ceramic, and other materials. Replacing outdated hardware is a way to change the appearance of your cabinets without changing the entire cabinet design.

5) Install Glass Inserts

An alternative to replacing cabinet doors is to install glass inserts. This lets you display dishes while keeping them behind closed doors. For suitable cabinet doors, a remodeling contractor may be able to replace the inner panel with glass. Have the existing doors assessed before assuming they can be modified.

6) Stain Cabinets

Staining is another option if you do not want to paint your cabinets. Stain can feature wood grain, including hickory or oak. Consider the existing wood and finish when choosing a stain. The ease of touching up a stained finish and the visibility of marks or scuffs will depend on the particular cabinet and finish rather than staining alone.

7) Add Under-Cabinet Lighting

Under-cabinet lighting is another update to consider during a kitchen remodel. Consider where additional light would be useful in your kitchen. Where the lights and controls are compatible, a dimmer can provide softer light for a late-night visit to the kitchen. Plan the lighting alongside the other work rather than assuming it will fit every project without additional considerations.

8) Update With Crown Molding

Crown molding is another way to change the appearance of your kitchen cabinets. Options include traditional crown molding, edge molding, stepped crown molding, and interior crown molding. A contractor can help you compare the choices and identify a style that suits your cabinets and kitchen.

9) Add a Mirror

A mirror can change the appearance of your kitchen and reflect light from windows. It can also become a noticeable decorative feature. Mirrors come in many styles and sizes, so consider the look you want and where a mirror would fit within your kitchen.