Upgrade Your Kitchen With These No-Nonsense Tips

It’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetics when redecorating a kitchen. A Japanese kitchen? Mid-century retro? Or the organic modern aesthetic?

The aesthetic is important. After all, it’s one of the most used rooms in the house, so it should look good, have plenty of natural light and there should definitely be some natural materials or plants in it.

But there are a few easy things that you can do to make your kitchen even more functional and improve your quality of life. For example, consider installing under-cabinet lighting. Or, if you’re short on storage space, invest in some hanging shelves or pot racks. These can free up valuable counter space and make it easier to find what you need.

By thinking beyond the kitchen design, you can end up with a space that is not only beautiful but also highly practical.

Below a few tips that you might not have thought of, but they can actually improve your living because they go beyond just looks. Get them done while you are redecorating anyway!

Consider installing a water softener

One thing you may not have thought about in upgrading your kitchen is installing a water softener. This can significantly improve your water quality, leading to better-tasting food and fewer dishes.

A water softener will also extend the life of your appliances and plumbing fixtures by preventing mineral build-up. Apart from this, there are many advantages to water softening, such as reducing soap scum, making it easier to clean dishes, and improving your skin and hair health. But remember, the aesthetic benefits are just as significant. Water softeners make your kitchen look cleaner, brighter, and more inviting.

If you’re thinking about selling your home someday, a water softener can also be a selling point. Many buyers are looking for homes with this system already in place.

Install new kitchen cabinets

…Or no cabinets.

Your storage space is one of the most critical features in any kitchen. They not only provide storage space but can also affect the overall look and feel of the room. If your cabinets are old or outdated, it might be time for an upgrade, or perhaps time to replace them with open shelves.

Shelves need more maintenance throughout because you can’t hide mess on them, but they look far more aesthetic.

If you’re on a budget, you can always paint your existing cabinets or add new hardware. This will give them a whole new look. The best part is you won’t need to spend that much. Or you can also update the fixtures and hardware in your kitchen to give it a more modern feel. Remember, quality is more important than quantity when it comes to cabinets.

Flooring matters too

The flooring in your kitchen plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of the space. If you have old, worn-out flooring, it can make the whole room look dated.

One option is to cover it with a carpet, but I don’t recommend that if you are a messy cook.

Hardwood floors are far more practical. They are popular with many homeowners because they’re beautiful and not too demanding to maintain.

But if you have young children or pets, you might want to consider something more durable, like tile or stone. These materials are also easy to clean and withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Pattern tiles or contrasting plain tiles can be a nice aesthetic statement in your kitchen.

Lighting is key

Lighting can make a big difference in any room, but it’s vital in the kitchen. Good lighting can make the space feel brighter and more inviting, but from the practical point of view it will help you see what you’re doing when cooking.

When choosing ceiling lights for your kitchen, think about the different tasks you do in the space. For instance, if you do a lot of cooking, you’ll want to ensure plenty of task lighting.

But if you entertain often, you might want to add some accent lighting from the corners of the room to create the warm and inviting atmosphere.

Choose durable kitchen countertops

Unless you cook only rarely, your kitchen countertop will probably see a lot of action. That’s why it’s essential to choose materials that can stand up to wear and tear is essential.

Granite and quartz are some of the most popular options. They’re both beautiful and durable, making them ideal for busy families. Consider concrete or butcher block if you’re looking for something different.

These materials are also durable and can add a unique touch to your kitchen. Perhaps the major drawback of the latter is that it requires more maintenance than other options. To keep it looking its best, you’ll need to oil it regularly.

Take care choosing your appliances

The right appliances in your kitchen can make all the difference. Not only do they save you time and energy, but they can also help you create healthy meals. When choosing appliances, think about what you use most often and what would make your life easier. For instance, a high-end stove or oven would be a good investment if you really love to cook.

Do you entertain often? Then consider a wine fridge or an extra-large refrigerator. A dishwasher would definitely make things easier for you as well.

But no matter what your needs are, always choose energy-efficient appliances. They may cost a bit more upfront, but in the long run, they’ll save you a lot of money. You are probably aware that in a good part of the world, energy costs are messing with everyone’s costs of living to a large extent now.

Etsy: MEDecorHome, Gallon jugs for kitchen

These are just a few tips to help you upgrade and decorate your kitchen. With some planning and elbow grease, you can transform your kitchen into the room of your dreams. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!