Updating Your Kitchen

Creating a New Space on a Budget

Are you ready for an update on your kitchen but don’t want to take on a big construction project? If your kitchen has good bones, you can update it to look like a whole new space without ripping it out to the studs.

Updating Cabinets

The cabinets frame out your kitchen. They provide the storage space and are the base to your countertops. If you aren’t changing the floorplan of your kitchen, you can often do some simple updates to bring your kitchen up to date.

For starters, look at the doors and hinges. If your hinges are exposed, you may want to update to hidden hinges. The doors themselves can also be replaced if you want to change the aesthetic. This allows you to have an impactful update at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire cabinets. If you’re replacing the doors, a design specialist can help you walk through the look you are trying to create. You can think about where you want solid wood doors vs glass inserts.

Changing the color of your cabinets can make your kitchen feel like a new space. Do you want a clean white space or a pop of color in your kitchen? Benjamin Moore has highlighted a few options here to help you think through what a kitchen could look like with different options. 

Don’t forget about the hardware: knobs and pulls. Changing this out can create a completely different look in your kitchen. From gold to silver black and everything in the middle, there are a lot of options on the market right now. Many people say you don’t have to match your metal finishes from the hardware to the sink faucet to light fixtures so have some fun with updating these. Be sure to pick a good quality product that will withstand lots of use though.

Updating Countertops

Did you buy a home with countertops you simply don’t love? Or did you pick out the perfect countertop decades ago and are ready for something new? Either way, Hardwood Specialties here in Morristown has several countertop options available. We can walk you through the pros and cons of quartz vs marble vs granite and help you select the product that is best for your lifestyle. Some of our clients enjoy butcher block counters as a focal point in their kitchen. The warmth of the wood helps your kitchen feel more welcoming. 

Updating Your Sink

When you update your countertop, this is a great time to also update your sink. If you have a drop-in kitchen sink, many people are updating to undermount sinks as they find it easier to keep the area clean. There won’t be a lip any longer where the countertop meets the sink. If you are updating your sink, think about if you want a single basin or two. The aesthetic matters but not as much as the function. You need to ensure you are installing a sink that meets your needs. If you enjoy having two sides: one to wash dishes and the other to rinse, consider this when you pick out a new sink.

Also consider the finish on your sink. Do you love stainless steel? Do you want to update to a white sink? A professional can walk you through your options on material and finish for the sink shape of your preference. 

You can also update the faucet and soap dispenser at this point. 

Updating Your Backsplash

When you update the coloring in your kitchen cabinets and countertops, you’re likely going to want to update the backsplash as well. Be sure to think about the material of your tile to ensure you can easily clean any splashes in the kitchen. The tile offers an opportunity to create a clean backdrop or insert some character with a pattern or texture.

Updating Lighting

If you have decorative light fixtures in your kitchen, maybe a new one would help you create a new space. Whether you are looking for farmhouse style lighting, a fancy chandelier or something in the middle, our team can point you in the right direction and help you comb through your options

A new light fixture will also pair well with under cabinet lighting which allows you to see your workspace better.  

Color Update

Don’t forget to paint the room. The final touch of bringing a new color into the room can completely change the mood. In February we talked about how much color matters and how it impacts how you feel. Benjamin Moore has great quality paint that lasts through the day to day wear in your home. 

As you are refreshing your kitchen, don’t be afraid of color. If you are hesitant, come see our design specialists at Hardwood Specialties. We can help you put your full kitchen update together. Our team loves helping our clients transform homes to reflect your family’s personality and passions. Reach out to our team to discuss your space.