Designer shares 6 ways to upgrade your kitchen for under $100

We all spend a significant amount of time in the kitchen, so it should be a place to enjoy. But many people wish their space was different, from the decorating style to the layout to shiny new appliances. Your dream kitchen might be a bright and airy farmhouse space, a cutting-edge contemporary look, or a sleek and sleek modern design.

If you want to renovate but don't have the time or money, or you're renting and can't make major changes, there are plenty of little ways to tweak your kitchen to make cooking more enjoyable. And what's better, you can make these tweaks and replacements without needing expensive professional help.

We spoke with interior designer Toussaint Derby about easy design updates for your kitchen. From changing out your rental-friendly lighting to customizing your cabinets, these improvements can all be made for under $100. Scroll down to learn her tips and shop her favorites for your space.

The best ways to upgrade your kitchen for under $100

• Kmat Kitchen Mat, $24 on amazon.com (list price $36)
• Ravinte 5-inch Cabinet Pulls 30-pack, $30 at amazon.com (list price $39)
• Prestige Interior Paint and Primer in One, $65 on amazon.com
• Beachcrest Home Brushed Nickel Pendant, $73 on wayfair.com
• Wewe Commercial Kitchen Faucet, $50 at amazon.com (list price $89)
• Mosaic Marble Backsplash Wallpaper, $56 at wayfair.com

Kmat Kitchen Mat

Let's start from scratch: Kitchen floors are often forgotten, but a washable rug can really bring out the color. It's a great option if you can't afford to retile or lay down wood floors, or if you're renting and want to cover an unloved surface. Many rugs are also cushioned, a nice perk for anyone who spends hours on their feet in the kitchen.

Ravinte 30 Pack 5″ Cabinet Pulls

Hardware Replacement: Darby says her favorite easy kitchen update is changing your cabinet hardware. “It's just one small part of your kitchen, but it can make a big difference in the overall look, especially if you have older pieces,” she says. Swap out handles for more modern ones, go from round to square, add color or design, go for a vintage look, or switch up the metal. Darby says replacing brushed nickel with brass is on trend.

Prestige interior paint and primer in one

Tackling the Cabinets: If you have the time and are willing to tackle a small project, give your cabinets a paint job for an extra update. “Cabinets are so expensive, so if you have a space where you don't like the wood color, sand them down and paint them a clean new white, or go bold with a darker blue or green,” says Darby. Finally, use a cabinet organizer to keep the look fresh and organized.

Beach Crest Home Brushed Nickel Pendant

Make your favorite light pieces shine: This is a tip that can be done even if you're renting. You can replace your light fixtures, whether they're ceiling or pendant lights. You might need help from a friend or service, but lighting can dramatically change the feel of a room, says Darby. She recommends checking out Wayfair for great, inexpensive lighting fixtures.

Wewe commercial kitchen faucet

Replace the faucet: Replacing your faucet is a very simple yet big change to your daily life. You'll likely use your faucet multiple times a day, so it needs to be functional and aesthetically pleasing. Darby suggests simply changing the finish for an instant fresh look.

Mosaic Marble Backsplash Wallpaper

Faux Backsplash: Stick-on wallpaper is a great option for renters, as it allows you to update a room with little to no effort. Just be sure to choose a quality brand and avoid sticking it behind the sink, so the wallpaper doesn't peel off the wall. “Read customer reviews and use your best judgment,” she says. She loves this wallpaper from West Elm because its marble-like look “adds a touch of luxury.”