Six Upgrades every Kitchen NEEDS
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Upgrading your kitchen doesn’t have to mean ripping out the old and adding a new, fancy one. There are several updates that you can do to elevate your cooking experience and the overall functionality of your kitchen. Here are six essential upgrades that can help you transform your kitchen into your favorite room in your house.
.01// Remove Microwave/Hood Combo
I often felt that when walking into my kitchen, it looked bulky and dated. I couldn't even fit a ladle above my pot because it hit the bottom of the microwave (that's a builder special for you). So I finally got brave and decided to remove the microwave/hood combo, sold it on Facebook Marketplace, and used the money to buy a new standalone range hood and a small microwave that I put inside our pantry. This upgrade not only clears up space but also creates a more open, airy feel in your kitchen. It also allows for greater style flexibility in your kitchen design. You can choose a discreet under-cabinet hood or an eye-catching decorative hood that suits your aesthetic.
BEFORE
AFTER
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.02// Add Pull-out Trash and Recycle Bins
One of the easiest ways to declutter your kitchen is by installing pull-out trash and recycle bins. These hidden solutions keep garbage out of sight while still being easily accessible. We selected a cabinet in our kitchen that was self-contained, that way I wasn’t storing anything sitting in the same cabinet as the garbage.
.03// Built-in Soap Dispenser
Counterclutter can give your home an unflattering look. Adding a built-in soap dispenser is a stylish and practical upgrade that helps maintain a clean countertop. A surprisingly easy upgrade, we drilled the hole into our counter ourselves, read all about it here. The whole project was less than $50 and well worth it! Picking out a design that complemented our faucet and sink helped pull the look together with the entire kitchen.
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.04// Layer in Lighting
Good lighting is vital in a kitchen for both functionality and atmosphere. One of the best improvements we've made to our kitchen has been layering our lighting sources to include ambient, task, and accent lighting. Not only does it create warmth but also an inviting space. Recessed lighting for overall illumination, pendant lights above the island for style, under-cabinet lights for focused task lighting, and counter lamps for ambiance. This combination equals *chef kiss.*
.05// Add a Pet Cabinet with Food Bowls
While searching on Pinterest for dog bowl solutions, I came across dedicated spaces in beautiful homes that had pet bowls. Now I knew we would not be able to build something brand new for our goldendoodle but I knew we could find a space to convert for him. One of the best updates we've made to our kitchen so far was converting a kitchen cabinet into our dog's food bowl space. This clever upgrade allows you to create a specific area for your pets without sacrificing style. A cabinet that includes built-in food bowls and storage for pet supplies can keep your kitchen tidy while providing a convenient spot for feeding. Opt for a design that matches your kitchen decor, ensuring that it blends seamlessly with the rest of the space.
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.06// Smart Organization to Maximize Cabinet Storage
There's nothing I love more than an organized space and maximizing cabinet storage is crucial for an efficient kitchen. Over the years of living with our kitchen, I've done several updates that have helped keep our kitchen uncluttered and organized. Consider adding pull-out shelves, tiered organizers for spices and cans, and dividers for pots and pans. Drawer inserts for utensils can also make a huge difference in keeping your kitchen orderly. Investing in these organization tools ensures that everything has a designated place, making cooking and meal prep a breeze.
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I’m a mom of two and wife to a seriously supportive hubby, living our best life in our forever house by the preserve! I'm all about helping you create a stylish, Pinterest-worthy home on a budget. Let's obsess over interior design, home decor, DIY, and home improvement projects to help you create your best home. Follow along and say hello! I love hearing from you.
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