A great kitchen update doesn’t have to involve a complete makeover, maybe just a new dining table set or kitchen table and chairs. It all comes down to great planning and a little style. So gather ‘round the kitchen table and put a fresh face on your kitchen space with these ideas.

Dining Options

If you are considering purchasing a new dining table set as part of your update, you do have options.

Kitchen Table and Chairs - A standard kitchen table is approximately 30" high and is available in many shapes including round, square, oval and rectangular. In many instances kitchen table sets feature a drop leaf or butterfly leaf to extend the table so that you’ll be able to entertain family and friends. If your kitchen is tight on space, a small round table and chairs makes the perfect focal point as a breakfast table.

Kitchen Islands – Kitchen islands are brilliant! An island adds workspace, storage, and seating -- a perfect solution for a small kitchen. Kitchen islands are typically 36" high, rectangular or square shaped and feature a solid square top, storage space and a wine rack. Kitchen islands are great for having breakfast or for a more intimate dining options.

Kitchen Nook – Kitchen nooks are another great seating option. A kitchen nook table is an L-shaped corner bench with a table, chairs, and a separate bench. In most cases a kitchen nook booth is reversible so you are able to arrange the space according to your needs to create a cozy corner to enjoy breakfast or a quick drink. A corner table also helps save space.

Hardware & Fixtures

Just changing some of the hardware and fixtures in your kitchen can give it a dramatic new look.

Cabinets - Add more personality with new cabinet hardware. Create a cohesive look with a mix of knobs and pulls in the same style family.

Faucet - Find a faucet that pairs well with the sink, cabinet hardware, and light fixtures. Pay attention to finishes: Polished finishes reflect light and add luminosity; brushed and satin finishes are more muted, adding subtle detail. Or go bold with a dark and dramatic bronze-finish faucet.

Lighting - Brighten your room with an interesting ceiling light fixture, mini pendants, and under cabinet lighting. Add control and ambiance with dimmers.

Shelves - Add shelves to open up the space and add extra storage. Opt for open shelves instead of upper cabinets to provide display space and make a small kitchen feel larger.

Appliances – The most popular kitchen update is installing new energy-efficient appliances. If your budget doesn’t allow much, just changing out the appliances can make a huge impact.

                                                                                  [Courtesy Houzz]

Make A Splash

Don’t forget the back-splash. Choosing classic white subway tiles is an inexpensive, yet high-impact back-splash material and comes in so many different colors, styles and textures. Looking for something with a little more personality? Consider multi-colored glass tiles or mosaic tiles for a decorative update.

                                                                             [Courtesy Houzz]

Counter-tops

The options here are endless - marble, stone, granite, quartz and more. Choose your counter-tops in concert with the cabinets and back-splash. Look for a counter-top material that subtly picks up a color or a pattern from your cabinets or back-splash. Explore solid surfaces, quartz, and laminates as alternatives to stone.

Update on a Budget

You don‘t need deep pockets to put a fresh face on an outdated kitchen. Add style and function with an affordable mix of traditional and modern upgrades.

• Get out your paintbrush! Freshen up cabinets or walls with a fresh coat of paint.
• Update the hardware on cabinets.
• Swap out the sink and faucet.
• Cozy up your kitchen nook with pillows.
• Use window treatments to add a splash of color in a low-risk way.
• Add a kitchen island for additional work space, storage, and seating.
• Add color! A colorful teapot on the stove, bright artwork or multi-colored canisters on the counter injects a little personality and life into your kitchen.
• Add an attractive area rug in lieu of changing the flooring.

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