Looking for easy and inexpensive ways to update your kitchen?

Are you wanting to create a warm and inviting space for family meals or entertaining?

Here are a few simple ideas that will give your kitchen an updated look.

When I first moved into my house, my kitchen made me feel like I was stuck in a decade that I never even lived in! The cabinets and hardware were outdated, the ceramic tile was awful, and the wall color and coutertops were just not my taste. I knew I wanted to spruce up the space, but I also knew what my bank account looked like.

Start sprucing up your kitchen by choosing the right wall colors. This will all depend on your choice of theme, style, or color scheme. I prefer to coordinate my wall colors with my textiles and decor, and to contrast with my cabinets and furniture. Another idea that will ad to your wall color, is to add some kitchen tile backsplash. There are so many styles to choose from, and will make clean up a breeze since the backsplash is directly behind your workspace in the kitchen.

If you are not happy with the cabinets or countertops, there are ways you can save money updating them. Painting kitchen cabinets is a great way to brighten up your space. Although it can be time consuming, it is a lot cheaper than replacing them! You can also just change your cabinet hardware for an easy update. There are many styles of knobs, pulls, or, hinges to choose from that won't cost a fortune. When it comes to countertops, getting them refinished or reglazed will save you more money than having them replaced. However, I happened to find some pre-cut countertops that I wanted, and had a contractor cut to size and install. And, the pre-cut countertops even had large matching formica sheets that I had glued (using recommended glue) and cut to size, to the large island countertop since there weren't pre-cut sizes large enough to cover it.

Now you are ready to add your decor. Whatever your style or theme may be, I would recommend coordinating your textiles instead of having every last piece match. The reason for this is because you don't want to look at the same pattern everytime you turn your head in your kitchen, which could cause you to get tired of it easily. Also, by having different shades and patterns, I think it makes it easier to pick up coordinating colors from your textiles, right to your wall or countertop decor.

When choosing your wall decor, I would recommend cuisine art themed prints, plates hug with plate racks or hooks, or shelves with photos or candles. Some of the wall decor can also be functional. Photo frames with hooks to hang keys, or decorative calenders or memo boards can add decor and convenience.

Your countertop decor can include the basic kitchen items that you use often, such as a stand mixer, or pieces to store food, such as a bread box or decorative canisters. Add more color to your countertop using artificial fruit in a decorative bowl, or simply fill a vase with flowers!

All of these ideas will help you decorate your kitchen without having to spend a lot of money. They can create a warm and inviting space for good food, and good conversation with family and friends. Get your kitchen updated, and start enjoying it!