Kitchen cabinets are an integral part of any kitchen and can often be the main visual focal point. If your cabinets need a refresher but replacing them is not feasible, you can still update and upgrade your cabinets to create an entirely new look for your kitchen.

Read on to discover tips on how to update cabinets without replacing them.

Pick new paint

An easy way to update your kitchen cabinets is by painting them. Painting your cabinets can totally change their look without breaking the bank. You can opt for a bright pop of color, such as light blue or pale green, or stick to neutrals like white or slate gray. For a modern twist, a Springfield interior decorator recommends painting your lower cabinets a deep hue, such as navy, and leaving your upper cabinets a light color such as white.

Add updated furnishings

Sometimes, kitchen cabinets just need updated hardware to bring them into this century. If you are stuck with old and worn cabinet hardware, replace them with new furnishings. Brass and nickel are great for vintage kitchens, while gold and silver furnishings tend to look more modern. Besides traditional metal furnishings, you can opt for jeweled or glass ones for a more whimsical look.

Choose a different finish

Certain wood cabinets can be salvaged and updated by simply refinishing them. Oak, for example, is often seen as dated but can be revamped with a darker stain. Even a glossy finish, as opposed to a matte one, can breathe new life into your kitchen cabinets. For example, red cabinets with a glossy finish can give your kitchen a distinctly retro vibe. Or, you can sand down the finish and go for a more rustic look.

Introduce a backsplash

Perhaps what your cabinets are missing is something to anchor them in the room. A backsplash added below your cabinets can make them pop without much work. Wallpaper is a great option here, as it comes in many patterns and is cost-effective. Or, if you have glass cabinet doors, consider adding a wallpaper to the back of them for added visual interest.

Remove the doors

If you are interested in a more open design concept, or if you simply hate your cabinet door design, consider removing the doors altogether. When you take the doors off the upper cabinets, you can hang shelves instead. Then, you can display dinner plates or cookbooks. You could also include a few plants or décor items to spruce up the space. 

Add crown molding

Crown molding can elevate the look of any kitchen. Not only does it elongate your cabinets and make the room feel more spacious, but it can also give your cabinets a noticeably customized look. It also makes the space seem more seamless and eliminates the awkward gap often seen between cabinets and the ceiling—an area that usually just collects dust.

We hope the above tips inspire you to update and refresh your kitchen cabinets without replacing them.