52 Budget-Friendly Ideas To Update Your Kitchen (Instead Of Remodeling!)
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A quick update of your kitchen, the tools in it, and the organization behind it is needed every now and then. Stay ahead of all of this with these simple and cost kitchen makeover ideas when you're on a budget.
Why Update the Kitchen?
As people, we change and grow over time. Don’t keep your kitchen in its past state when you’ve already grown to a new place in your life. Some say that the kitchen is the heart of the house, so let it represent that. Design your kitchen to be an outside representation of who you are inside.
Kitchen update ideas don’t have to be expensive. Sure, you could replace all of your appliances with new stainless steel. However, it is those small organization and design choices you make that really let your kitchen shine and become a representation of who you are. So if you are struggling with kitchen makeover ideas, this list of budget-friendly design options is for you!
Add or Change a Tile Backsplash
Whether you’re considering a tile backsplash or already have one, this can be an easy way to add interest to an update without doing a full-on kitchen remodel. It doesn’t have to be expensive to find a tile backsplash that will complement your design needs, while still staying on budget.
Our Picks:
Amazon
Peel & Stick Marble Tiles
Art3d
If one reason that you’ve put off any kitchen renovation is because you’re not sure if you’re cut out for it, this DIY marble tile makes it so simple — it’s almost foolproof!
Amazon
Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Anmon
Whether you’re a renter, non-committal, or you’re like us and simply looking for makeover ideas on a budget, peel and stick wallpaper can be your best friend. Easy to remove or change when you need something different; a quick change of the pattern and design can make a huge different in a kitchen before and after.
Amazon
Reusable Tile Stencil
Zonon
Another kitchen weekend project is using a simple tile stencil like this one to create the illusion of a tile backsplash. This is an ideal option for anyone who isn’t sure if they would like a kitchen tile in a busy pattern or bright color. Hate it? Just simply paint over it.
Try Adding Paint
Did you know that you can paint over existing tile? While this may be an adventurous weekend project, you can switch up the color but leave the current texture intact. Create a unique design that adds interest to the wall that can be easily changed at any time, with just a simple coat of paint.
Our Picks:
Amazon
Chalk Paint in Sunset Glow
Country Chic Paint
One way to instantly give your kitchen a makeover? Swap out that boring old paint color with something bright and fun!
Amazon
Chalk Paint in Sunday Grey
Country Chic Paint
Not ready for a bold color? This shade of pale grey is a great option if your kitchen only needs a subtle update or refresh.
Add a Bit of Wallpaper
No backsplash, no problem! If you hate the tile in your kitchen or do not have any, try experimenting with wallpaper. Before you cringe at the idea, wallpaper has come a very long way in recent years! With many peel and stick wallpaper options, this can be a simple, yet cost-effective, way to decorate your kitchen.
Our Picks:
Amazon
Tile Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Roommates
Why not combine the best of both worlds and mimic tiles in your kitchen with wallpaper!
Etsy
Botanical Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Say Home Decor
Peel and stick wallpapers have a nearly endless variety of designs, styles, and shades. Personally, we think a muted floral is a great way to add excitement without being too bright and bold.
Maximize Your Shelving Options
Don’t overlook open shelving! Sure, your cabinets serve you well and are a great storage option to have. However, large cabinets can often make the kitchen feel smaller and closed off, since they block off large amounts of wall space. Dark cabinets can also make the overall kitchen feel smaller and darker, especially if your kitchen is lacking in natural light. Instead, think of your walls as free real estate that you’re overlooking. Plus, open shelving can be great as a design display.
Amazon
Three Tiered Floating Shelves
Greenco
These floating shelves have a rustic feeling that would look great in a farmhouse kitchen, but can as easily fit in with a boho theme, too. The best part is just switching the decor on the shelves (or giving them a coat of paint) can be an instant kitchen makeover in itself.
West Elm
Quinn Tiered Shelf
West Elm
This tiered shelf is ultra-modern, but the light color and clean lines won’t make it feel dark in your kitchen.
Optimize Your Wall’s Vertical Space
Don’t clutter kitchen cabinets with pots and pans. Add wall hooks or hanging options to utilize the full wall space. The often overlooked space above kitchen cabinets can also be a storage option to organize kitchen cookbooks or miscellaneous items.
Amazon
Hanging Pantry Baskets
Maoerful
These hanging baskets can be used just about anywhere in your kitchen (and home, too!). We love them as convenient wall storage for fruits and vegetables, but you can also use them as reusable grocery bags for a sustainable option!
Use The Space Underneath Cabinets or Shelves
Too many coffee mugs? Adding hooks underneath cabinets or shelves can often hold more mugs than when placed on a standard kitchen shelf. However, this could be a good time to minimize your kitchen and donate the items that you no longer use.
Etsy
Macrame Fruit Hammock
Macra-yAY-Macrame
Under cabinet space is often forgotten, but this hammock gives you a great use of space (and we think it looks pretty great, too).
Utilize Countertop Organization
Along with wall storage, countertop storage can be maximized. Try using tiered storage on the countertop to allow you to use all the available vertical space in the kitchen. This is another area that you can add touches of updated decor, such as ceramic or glass containers, to be both functional and appealing.
Amazon
3 Tier Kitchen Countertop Storage
mDesign
This stainless steel design is perfect for the sleek, modern kitchens.
Amazon
Bamboo & Metal Corner Shelf
Hynawin
You don’t have to use these countertop shelves to just house plates and cups. Instead, use the shelving to display aesthetic food storage containers, utensils, or even a small plant.
Repaint The Cabinets
Paint is a simple and cost effective way to completely transform your space. Simply changing the color of your cabinets can make a huge difference in your kitchen style. Your cabinets are often the first thing people will notice about your kitchen, so picking the right color can spruce it up. Plus, exchanging a dark or dated cabinet color for a lighter option will make the kitchen feel brighter and more open.
Tip: It is important to research the style of cabinets in the kitchen, as well as what paint and finish was used before beginning to paint. Due to grease and oil from cooking, cabinets will most often require sanding and priming before a layer of paint can be properly, and smoothly, applied.
Amazon
Matte Finish Paint in Bliss
Jolie
Matte paint can be a good option if you’re wanting to try a bright, bold shade for your cabinets.
Amazon
Semi Gloss Cabinet Paint in Studio Hours
Backdrop
Semi gloss paint looks great on traditional cabinets that need a fast and budget-friendly makeover. This warm tan shade would look great with new hardware, such as gold handles or knobs.
Add Statement Lighting
Find a lighting fixture that makes you and your guests say “Wow!” This can add a bit of your personal style into your kitchen and, additionally, allow you to add in some much needed light. Plus, this might be one of the easiest design swaps on our list!
Amazon
Industrial Pendant Lights
Claxy
The clear glass of these pendant lights is perfect for providing lighting over an eating area or bar top, without blocking your view.
Amazon
Sputnik Chandelier
Biewalk
Sputnik chandeliers are another versatile lighting option that become the centerpiece of any room that they are in. Whether you have mid-century modern home decor or you prefer modern, this light can be styled around easily.
Urban Outfitters
Tristan Ceramic Pendant Light
Urban Outfitters
Earthy and natural, this ceramic pendant is the perfect shade to complement any kitchen redo.
Add Plants
Bring life into your kitchen. A kitchen window in your home is the perfect place for plants to reside. Bring a bit of nature into your house by decorating with small counter or hanging plants.
Tip: Stop buying fresh herbs at the grocery store! These hydroponic herb gardens can be kept conveniently in your kitchen and provide fresh herbs all year long.
@fabsignature / Fabiana Loschi
Wooden Hanging Planter
FAB SIGNATURE
There’s no faster way to multiply your houseplants on a budget than by doing a bit of propagating. These stylish, boho planters can be hung anywhere in your kitchen and as the roots grow, can be swapped out for more plants.
Visit: fabsignature.com for more.
Amazon
Hydroponics Growing System
iDoo
If you want to start an indoor herb garden on a budget, this countertop hydroponic station has you covered. Complete with an LED grow light and germination station, you can start having fresh herbs in your dishes in no time.
Amazon
Indoor Vertical Hydroponic Garden
Gardyn
This hydroponic garden is definitely a splurge, but if you are looking for a way to grow your own vegetables indoors and have a living piece of art in your kitchen or dining room, this is the one!
Add a New Rug
If you want to add a bit of extra decor to the ground, but don’t want to fully change the flooring, add a rug. This can not only give you a soft space to stand on when you’re cooking or eating, but can warm up an otherwise cold kitchen. Choose a rug that accentuates the colors already found in your kitchen or use it to add a pop of color. When ready for a change, simply switch it out.
Tip: Use a machine washable rug, such as these from Ruggable, that can be thrown into your washing machine to clean even the highest traffic homes.
Ruggable
Kamran Hazel Rug
Ruggable
Ruggable has been a leader in washable rugs, and no matter your design style, you can find a size or design to fit your home decor.
Amazon
Washable Vintage Oriental Runner
Moynesa
These runners are not only washable, but they have a non-slip backing so they are perfect for hallways, front doors, or other busy areas of your home.
Amazon
Terracotta/Sky Area Rug
Loloi II
Loloi is our favorite brand for incredibly high quality, durable rugs that are also ultra-thin, making them perfect to withstand the highest traffic areas of your home (like the kitchen or dining room!).
Minimize Your Home
Cluttered kitchen? It is time to minimize. Pair down on what you own and see if you really need everything. Sometimes we let old kitchen utensils, pans and dishes stay forgotten in cabinets because we don’t know what to do with them. Start by pulling all the items out of your cabinets and organizing them by type. If you have multiples of an item, (who needs two potato peelers, anyway?) choose which one to keep. Do the same with similar pots and pans, dishes, glasses and kitchen appliances. When you’re done, donate them.
Add Mirrors
Adding mirrors to a kitchen will help it feel larger than it is, especially if you have a small kitchen. Mirrors make a great wall accent, as well. When placed opposite a window, they can reflect natural light into the space, opening it up to a brighter feel. Play around with shapes and design of the mirrors.
Amazon
Black Metal Frame Circle Mirror
Beautypeak
A simple black framed mirror is all it takes to give your kitchen a fast and easy update.
Amazon
Baroque-Inspired Arch Mirror
Kate and Laurel
Mirrors are incredibly good about bringing in additional natural light. This gold filigree mirror is an affordable alternative to the viral Anthropologie mirror—but at a third of the price, this mirror actually fits into our kitchen makeover budget.
Amazon
Irregular Wall Mirror
FICTOR
If your design style is—dare we say?—less rigid, you might want to add a mirror with an abstract design into your home.
Arrange by Color
You can’t go wrong when organizing by color. To make your space feel cohesive and intentionally organized, this method can be a great way to decorate without spending any money.
Store on Top of Cabinets
Like we mentioned earlier, your kitchen has a lot of space that you probably aren’t using. Make use of the space above your cabinets. If your cabinets do not extend to the ceiling, think about storing items above.
If you have enough height, add an open shelf above your cabinets to utilize two rows of space. To prevent the area from feeling cluttered, adding baskets or storage boxes can hide unused, unsightly items.
Give Commonly Used Items An Aesthetic Touch
Instead of leaving coffee syrups and open cereals boxes lying around, try putting the items that you reach for most often out on display. Not only does this quickly and easily remove clutter from shelves or countertops, but it can actually save you money, by allowing you to buy in bulk (think cooking oils, condiments, and seasonings) and prevent unnecessary waste.
Try adding commonly used dry food goods—think beans, rice, even cereal—into aesthetically pleasing jars. This will remind you to not only frequently reach for these items, but jars can also serve as functional decor for an instant kitchen makeover.
Amazon
Minimalist Spice Jar Labels
Savvy & Sorted
If you’ve spent any time scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, you have probably seen these ultra-popular minimalist labels. Complete with glass containers and airtight lids, these jars are an aesthetically pleasing way to keep herbs and spices fresher, longer!
Amazon
White & Black Marble Cellars
Marblous Krafts
Another simple kitchen upgrade is to swap out your boring salt and pepper shakers for these marble cellars. Not only do they look great, but they’re a beautiful piece of table decor for entertaining guests.
Amazon
Oil Dispenser Bottles
Molimoli
Want a kitchen upgrade that will also continue to save you money? Buy your favorite oil, vinegar, or sauce in bulk and fill these glass bottles for your kitchen. Not only does it cut down on trips to the grocery store, but you can avoid single use plastic containers.
Amazon
Coffee Syrup Dispensers
Molimoli
If you find yourself heading to Starbucks to grab a coffee a few times a week, maybe it’s time to invest in these syrup dispensers. They make it easy to get just the right amount of flavor into your favorite beverage, so you can use that Pinterest recipe right at home.
Amazon
Cork & Glass Jars
Homearay
These glass and cork jars provide a beautiful (and convenient) way to store dry goods, such as spaghetti, rice, or beans.
Amazon
Antique Copper Canister Set
Old Dutch
Whether you are a lover of the farmhouse aesthetic or an industrial vibe, these copper canisters are a great place to store away baking ingredients, like flour or sugar.
Amazon
Glass Soap Dispensers
MaisoNovo
Another simple kitchen upgrade that you can make to save you money, buy your soaps in bulk or reusable pouches to prevent waste and stay on budget.
Unexpected Wallpaper
Consider adding wallpaper to the inside of your cabinets. This can give you a surprise pop of color or pattern every time you open it. Plus, peel and stick wallpaper makes it easy to apply with little to no mess.
Amazon
Ferns Botanical Wallpaper Peel and Stick Wallpaper
UniQstiQ
Can you tell that we are a fan of peel and stick wallpaper? Try using a bold pattern on a single wall or in a unique nook for an ultra-fast (and non-permanent) kitchen makeover.
Amazon
Vintage Peel and Stick Floral Wallpaper
Haokhome
If strong, bold patterns are too drastic for you, you can easily add surprise wallpaper as drawer liners.
Utilize Hanging Space
Get an industrial look by adding in a hanging rod in your kitchen. Coffee mugs can easily be stored on this rod by hanging from the handle. Towels, fresh fruits and vegetables, and even pendant lighting allow you to take advantage of every space in your kitchen.
Amazon
Leather Hanging Rail
Keyaiira
Making a home coffee bar might sound like it requires an entire kitchen remodel, but a simple wood and leather dowel like this one makes hanging coffee cups above a station so easy.
Amazon
Gourmet Kitchen Rail
Wallniture
Instead of cluttered drawers and cabinets, pull your utensils and pots and pans out and place them within arms’ reach.
Anthropologie
Mira Hanging Baskets
Anthropologie
Try using a hanging basket near your kitchen sink so that you can easily reach for towels, soaps, or scrubbing brushes. Even better, you can always reuse these in your bathroom when it needs a makeover, too!
Mix Styles
Most likely, one style doesn’t fully translate to who you are. Don’t be afraid to mix styles and create a perfect representation of your unique design taste. Try adding fun patterns and colors, mixed in with rustic touches, such as wicker chairs. You will be surprised at how easily this mix-matched look comes together.
Amazon
Silicone Arch Trivets
Monomono
Toss out those old and worn pot and pan holders. SIlicone is eco-friendly and virtually indestructible.
Amazon
Retro Style Coffee Maker
Smeg
Smeg is known for its entire line of retro-inspired products, but this blast from the past also comes in a fun, refreshing color.
Amazon
Mid Century Modern Dining Set
Art Leon
If you’re looking to make a more drastic change, swapping out your dining set will give your kitchen an instant makeover. We’re always a fan of the vintage vibes of this dining set.
Amazon
Colorful Ceramic Bowls
Dowan
Bold, bright, colorful! This dinnerware is anything but boring and is great for entertaining during summer parties.
Have an Accent Wall
Painting the entire kitchen can be a lot of work. To revamp your kitchen, but still do so on a budget-friendly and simple way, consider adding a simple accent wall. This works especially well with an all-white kitchen. The accent wall will be a nice pop of color no matter your design style.
Etsy
Arch Wall Decal
Wall paperfect
Talk about a total makeover. A vibrant, statement decal like this can transform a boring white wall into a talking piece.
Add a Shelf Above the Stove
If your stove has nothing above it, add a shelf. You can store pots and pans for quick and easy access while cooking. If your vent hood is on the wall, make use of the empty space to either side by adding small shelves for frequently used ingredients.
Amazon
Stove Top Shelf
Sauce Zhan
Sure, it might be a bit utilitarian, but it’s also a simple kitchen swap that can make cooking so much easier.
Put in a Floating Table
If you don’t have space in your small kitchen or apartment for a full table, add a floating table to a blank wall. This is basically a large shelf that folds down when you need a place to sit and eat or meal prep. A folding chair can also be hung on the wall or brought in from another area of your home to increase functionality. This allows you to maximize your space, and it’ll act as its own unique touch to your apartment.
Amazon
Fold Down Floating Table Storage
Stakol
If your space is feeling crammed, this folding table does double duty as storage and a dining table, giving you extra space without worrying about a costly kitchen remodel.
Amazon
Rustic Wall Mounted Table
For Friend of Family
Another great way to save space instead of demolishing walls is with a wall-mounted table. Slide a set of stools underneath and this breakfast nook or eating area takes up no space at all.
Add Magnetic Strips
These magnetic options can be an incredibly simple way to free up space on your countertop, in drawers or in your pantry.
Amazon
Magnetic Knife Strip
Comfify
Stop storing your knives in a bulky block on your countertop. Attach a magnetic knife strip to keep all of your knives in one easy to grab location and remove clutter from the countertop or drawers.
Amazon
Magnetic Spice Rack
IMPRESA
If you lose spices in your cabinets or pantry, a magnetic spice rack can be an easy way to bring those ingredients front and center so that you never buy an extra jar of oregano again. Magnetic jars are easy attach to a metal wall strip and can be placed anywhere for accessibility during cooking.
Hang Artwork
Often, we keep wall art contained to the living room, bedroom, or other parts of the house. But why not bring some into your kitchen? This can give your kitchen a bit of flair and add a cozy touch to it.
Etsy
Coffee Guide Print
Everlong Print Co.
Didn’t we mention that adding in a coffee bar is the perfect kitchen makeover idea?
Etsy
Kitchen Print Set
Kiki and Nim
This set of prints can be framed however you want for a fully customizable kitchen art project.
Etsy
‘Chef Was Cute’ Print
Olive Creatives
Sometimes a cheeky quote can add a bit of whimsy into your kitchen decor.
Follow Your Style
Ultimately, you need to organize and design your kitchen based on your own unique style. Take inspiration from everything you see and translate that into an inviting kitchen space. Keep your kitchen simple and turn your creativity on to find the best deals for your home makeover!
