| By :
Mark Etinger
If you're tired of your kitchen's drab decor you are probably dying to make an upgrade. The thing that might be stopping you is the money. Kitchen renovations are notoriously pricey. Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can update your kitchens look without breaking the bank. You want to focus on the little details. So that means new cabinets and new appliances will have to wait. Fortunately though, if you work on sprucing up the little details, they can detract the larger eyesores that you don't quite have the money to replace. Keep in mind when you're choosing a new design scheme that it's important to stick with a style that you feel won't go out of style in the near future. 1. Update the lighting: Cheap fluorescent kitchen lighting can really have a negative effect on the room. It's harsh, yellow, and unflattering, plus you need to have a well-lit space to cook safely. Instead, you'd be much better off with the soft, white light of street light fixtures, or a few new low wattage bulbs. You need great lighting when you're cooking and white light is perfect for that. 2. Swap out the sink: White porcelain is always a classic style. If you're looking for a more modern look that is as equally durable as porcelain, you should check out stainless steel sinks. 3. Fix the fixtures: You don't have to buy your fixtures brand new. There are lots of used antique fixtures on the market that are cheaper than new ones and can really accent a room, especially if you're going for a more retro look. These are also time-period sensitive if you live in a historic home, and don't want to change too much about the place. 4. Counter space is cool: Especially if your kitchen is small, you can make it look much bigger by adding an island. This allows for more counter space and the appearance of a bigger kitchen. Plus, many models have additional storage which is ideal for many homeowners. 5. Freshen up the Tile: Whether it's on the floor or on the wall as a backsplash, old dull tile can look new again when it's contrasted with a lighter color. Glossy white paint along with white linen curtains if you have windows, can make an dreary kitchen look bright, clean and new again. If you can afford to re-tile, nothing is as classic as glossy white tile. For a more modern look, try pebble tiles! If you want some color in a traditional tile, cobalt meshes perfectly with white walls and curtains. 6. Let the personality shine: Just because a kitchen is classic, doesn't mean it has to be boring; add a personal touch wherever you can. Don't feel like just because you're giving your kitchen a new stylish look that you have to remove those alphabet magnets form the fridge and the corkboard from the wall. Keep the little items that make it your kitchen. 7. Refine the details: Cabinet Knobs for drawers or cupboards can make a big difference. If oyu hate your cabinets but can't afford new ones, a coat of paint and new cabinet knobs can go a long way. On a budget you can balance the traditional whites with more modern (and less expensive) stainless steel door knob hardware or even brass door knobs. Even something as simple as changing up the lighting switch plates to a modern design can make a drastic difference in the aura of your kitchen.
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