Kitchen Makeover Ideas
Dreaming of a fresh new look for your kitchen, you begin to picture all the ways a simple makeover could transform the space. Whether it’s replacing old cabinets with sleek new doors, swapping out dated hardware for modern finishes, or upgrading your kitchen lighting to create a brighter, more inviting space, even the smallest changes can make a big impact.
From small, budget-friendly changes to major renovation inspo, these kitchen makeover ideas will help you breathe new life into the heart of your home.
Minor kitchen makeover ideas
If you’re on a budget or short on time, these small kitchen makeover ideas are perfect for updating your space with minimal effort.
“If you’re not ready for a full kitchen renovation, small changes can make a big difference — swapping out light fittings, updating handles or adding a fresh splash of paint can completely transform the feel of the space,” says Ally Dowsing-Reynolds.
1. Repaint your cabinets
One of the easiest ways to completely revamp your kitchen is to give your cabinets a fresh lick of paint. The colour you choose will have a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your space: opt for a light colour to make small kitchens feel more bright and airy, or choose a dark shade to give your kitchen a more dramatic or moody feel.
Sage green kitchens are particularly popular if you’re looking to create a calming ambience, while dove grey kitchens are an excellent choice for a timeless, elegant look. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to picking a colour – just make sure the one you choose helps create the atmosphere you want your kitchen to have.
Image courtesy of @togged_to_the_bricks
2. Upgrade your handle
It’s a small detail, but swapping out your old kitchen handles for new ones can have a big impact on your space, giving it the refresh it needs. Black handles are great for a sleek, contemporary look, while gold kitchen handles are ideal for an opulent, high-end feel.
To create a space that feels effortlessly cohesive and put together, be sure to match your cabinet handles to other hardware in your kitchen, including your light switches and sockets.
Image courtesy of Amazing Productions
3. Switch up your lighting
If your kitchen currently feels dark and uninviting, you can completely transform it simply by upgrading your lighting fixtures. The right lighting will not only make your kitchen feel more open and welcoming but also ensure the space is adaptable for any time of day, providing bright, focused light for cooking and food prep, and softer, ambient options for dining or winding down in the evening.
You should aim to create a layered lighting scheme that includes a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Pendant lights are great for suspending over your kitchen island or table, offering the perfect blend of style and functionality – put them on dimmer switches to set the ideal mood with ease.
Image courtesy of @Decorbuddi @amandadelaney_decorbuddi
4. Add a new backsplash
Another kitchen makeover idea that can be achieved with little fuss and a small budget is adding a new backsplash.
Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles can be used for a stylish DIY update to your space. Opt for a colour or pattern that matches your kitchen design scheme and contributes to the overall look you want to go for. Alternatively, make your backsplash stand out by choosing a colour or pattern that contrasts with your countertops and cabinets.
5. Get creative with accessories
Any room in your home can be improved with a few accessories, but this is a detail that’s often overlooked when it comes to kitchens. Wall art can be a great way to add interest and personality to your space, while plants and flowers are a simple yet effective way to bring freshness, colour, and a touch of nature into the room (you can always opt for artificial plants if you don’t want the hassle of caring for real ones).
Think about adding soft furnishings to your kitchen to make it feel more cosy and inviting. This could include adding colourful cushions to your seating area, or even swapping out your old tea towels for more decorative versions that match your design scheme.
Image courtesy of @our_greenhouse_reno
6. Install open shelving
One great way to instantly make your kitchen feel more open is to install open shelving. This stylish, functional upgrade creates the illusion of more space while offering an opportunity to display your favourite kitchenware, cookbooks, or decorative pieces.
Adding open shelving to your kitchen could be as simple as removing the door from some of your upper cabinets, or you could install floating shelves on a bare wall that isn’t being used.
To get the most out of open shelves, use them to display a mix of practical and decorative items. Stack neatly arranged plates, glasses, and bowls alongside small potted herbs, ornamental vases, or vintage finds to strike the perfect balance between utility and design.
Major kitchen makeover ideas
If you’ve got a bigger budget and more time on your hands, these larger kitchen makeover ideas are perfect for completely transforming your space.
“When you’re doing a major renovation, it’s the perfect time to get the lighting right — build in layers from the start, think about how each area will be used, and don’t forget the finishing touches like switches and sockets. They make a bigger impact than you’d think,” says James Dowsing-Reynolds.
1. Add a kitchen island
Kitchen islands make a beautiful addition to any kitchen, providing extra space for everything from preparing food to entertaining guests. Transform your kitchen into a social hub where you and your loved ones can gather by positioning your kitchen island so it’s facing the cooking area, making it easier to cook and socialise simultaneously.
Another advantage of kitchen islands is the extra storage space they provide. Additional cabinets, drawers, or open shelves can be included under the island to help keep clutter at bay and make your space look cleaner and more inviting.
Don’t forget to add kitchen island lighting to tie the space together!
Image courtesy of @laurabutlermadden
2. Replace old countertops
If you want to give your kitchen a more high-end look, consider replacing laminate or tile countertops with more luxurious materials like granite, quartz, or marble. Not only do these surfaces elevate the overall aesthetic of your kitchen, but they’re also more durable and easier to maintain in the long run. Quartz, for example, is water-resistant and doesn’t stain or scratch easily, making it a great option for busy households.
3. Upgrade your appliances
Another excellent way to modernise your kitchen is by upgrading your appliances. Old appliances not only make your kitchen look dated, but also limit your cooking capabilities. Replace them with sleek, energy-efficient models to enhance the visual appeal of your space and reduce your energy bills over time.
Always try to match your appliances in the same finish to give your kitchen a cohesive, high-end feel. If they also match with other details like your cabinet handles or kitchen taps, that’s even better.
Show us your new kitchen design
We’d love to see how you’ve used these kitchen makeover ideas to breathe new life into your space. Tag us on Instagram @dowsingandreynolds – we can’t wait to see what you’ve come up with!
