Want to freshen up your room for the new year without the mess and expense of a renovation? Who doesn't? There are plenty of small changes you can make to your kitchen that can have a big effect, so you can ring in the new year with a refreshed design.
here H&GWhile we love a project that completely transforms a room, we also know that kitchen ideas don't have to involve wholesale changes to be effective — small tweaks can give a room the new look and feel that's exactly what it needs in the new year.
Here, we've rounded up expert-recommended tactics to help you give your kitchen a fresh new look this January.
Small changes can make a big difference in your kitchen
What better New Year project could there be than refreshing your kitchen? Since the kitchen is a space where the whole family spends time every day and it's probably a room you share with guests, a little effort can yield big benefits.
These ideas vary in scope but are far less disruptive and expensive than a kitchen remodel. Choose one or more of them depending on your time, budget, and room renovation needs.
1. Incorporate natural elements
(Image courtesy of Sarah Trump)
Make your kitchen a more inviting space: “Just adding a few natural materials like rattan or wicker can add warmth and texture,” says Shawn Zar, interior designer and furniture expert at Superior Seating.
“Consider a set of new wicker bar stools as seating for your kitchen island or place a wicker fruit basket on your counter. It's a subtle nod to the natural trend and doesn't require a big commitment.”
2. Go bold with your backsplash
(Image courtesy of Polly Eltes)
Consider these backsplash ideas that can make a big difference in your kitchen: “Go for a vibrant backsplash,” says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. “The colors and patterns you introduce into your kitchen can change the entire look and feel of the space.”
If you're confident with your DIY skills, you could tile your backsplash yourself, which is a very low-budget way to update your kitchen. Make sure you choose a design that will change the feel of your space and bring in something new, whether that be a colour, texture or shape.
Based in New York, Artem Khropovinskiy boasts 10 years of extensive global design experience. With a strong focus on sustainability and authenticity, Artem and his dedicated team have worked on projects across the US and abroad, receiving acclaim at prestigious design awards. Artem is the founder of Arsight, a globally acclaimed design firm known for its expertise in residential and commercial interior design.
3. Replace your appliances with aesthetically pleasing ones.
(Image courtesy of Future)
The appliances on your kitchen counters can make all the difference. “Update your appliances and make sure they all come in the same color,” recommends Lindsay Hahn of Christie's International Real Estate. “It also helps to have the same brand, if possible.” Choosing the best place to shop for appliances can make discovering new designs quick and easy.
However, be careful not to overcrowd your counters. When organizing your kitchen appliances, choose the items you use most and put them on display.
4. Add statement lighting
(Image courtesy of deVOL)
It's worth putting some focus on your kitchen lighting to breathe new life into the room in the new year, especially if your current design prioritizes functionality over style. “Lighting is often overlooked, but it can completely change the mood,” says Shawn Zahl. “Swap out old fixtures with bold, beautiful pieces that will catch your eye and provide an instant upgrade.”
If you're replacing an older design, don't forget that you could also be saving money on your energy bills: “Energy-efficient, contemporary lighting increases functionality while creating the right ambience,” says Artem Khropovinsky.
5. Introduce plants
(Image courtesy of deVOL)
In the new year, turn your kitchen into a growing space. “They purify the air and bring freshness to your kitchen,” says Artem Khropovinsky. The best kitchen plants may provide fresh ingredients for your dishes and add natural colors, shapes, and textures to your decor.
For more impact, placing plants at different heights is key. A single houseplant on a shelf can look lonely. Have lots of plants at ground level, eye level and even above that add texture. Also, mix in different shapes and colours.
6. Reupholstering cabinets
(Image courtesy of Little Greene)
This change will require a bit more effort than other options, but it’s a small change compared to a kitchen remodel and can have a transformative effect.
“Cabinet reupholstering is a clever solution to restoring old, sturdy cabinets,” explains Erin Davis, principal designer at Mosaik Design & Remodeling in Portland, Ore. “The least expensive solution is to just paint the cabinets.”
“For 2024 kitchen trends, consider warmer, 'cozy' neutrals like creamy off-whites, camel, deep browns, sienna, spicy earth tones (yes, they're back), mustard, copper and gold.”
“Taupe is still very popular, as are mushroom and stone colors. Warm greys are still popular, but not as much as they have been in recent years. With people spending more time at home, decorating with neutrals offers a more liveable palette and is easier to decorate with. If you're on a budget, choose woods that are elegant, dramatic and long-lasting.”
Plus, if you want to paint or stain your kitchen cabinets yourself, there's no need to call in a professional.
7. Switch Hardware
(Image courtesy of Farrow & Ball)
But there are ways other than reupholstering that can completely refresh the look of a room. “Replace the hardware,” suggests Artem Khropovinskiy. “If you want to jazz up your kitchen, you could install new doors, handles, and pulls.”
Installing kitchen cabinet handles is another kitchen remodel that can be successfully done DIY. Again, as with replacing kitchen tiles, choose a design that is clearly different from your current style so the change is clearly visible.
8. Refresh your home decor
(Image courtesy of Fanny Ludwig)
Is your kitchen your dining room? Does your family gather in banquette chairs? Consider new fabrics for a small change that will refresh the room. “If you have chairs in your kitchen, new cushions or upholstery can brighten up the space,” says Shawn Zerr. “Choosing durable, easy-to-wipe fabrics in modern patterns and colors is a quick and practical update.”
Similarly, when it comes to kitchen window treatments, replacing curtains or blinds, if you have them, can make a difference. Take the season into consideration, opting for lighter colours and fabrics in the warmer months.
9. Add personality with artwork
(Image courtesy of deVOL Kitchens)
The kitchen isn't often the room to hang artwork, but as it's a space for not only cooking but also entertaining, socializing and relaxing, it's the heart of the home and so it's worth paying a little attention to kitchen art ideas this new year.
The result? “You can bring personality to the space through unique artwork and other decorative items,” says Artem Khropovinskiy. And by purchasing art you already have at home, you can actually update your kitchen without buying anything new.
FAQ
How do I refresh the inside of my kitchen cabinets?
Leaking jars and bottles can cause unpleasant odors in your kitchen cabinets. Get into the habit of cleaning your kitchen regularly. Small spills on high shelves often go unnoticed. Use a mild detergent when wiping and do not replace anything until the cabinets are dry. If the odor remains, put baking soda in a bowl to absorb the unpleasant odor before replacing the contents.
Painting the walls is an alternative to small changes to update a room. Choose designer-approved kitchen wall color ideas for a chic finish. Refreshing for yourself, not updating to sell? Before you sell your house, avoid outdated kitchen features that might put off home buyers.
