The Reno-Free Upgrade That Gives Your Kitchen A Whole New Feel

Whether you're moving into a new space or feel like your current one needs a refresh, we always suggest starting in the kitchen. Positioned in the center of most homes, kitchens hold nostalgic meaning for many, as they've served as gathering places for families and loved ones for ages. These spaces should feel comfortable without sacrificing functionality, at once cozy and utilitarian — which is why choosing a timeless style for your kitchen renovation is the best advice ever.

However, if a full remodel isn't in the cards, there are still plenty of reno-free ways to upgrade your kitchen and give it a whole new feel. Though common advice says to focus on upgrading your cabinet hardware or changing the light fixtures, the easiest way to freshen up your space may be to focus on your kitchen's entryways. Cabinet doors may take up more visual real estate in your kitchen, but upgrading your kitchen door can bring light, life, and color your space may be lacking.

The easiest way to upgrade any door is to paint it. Try matching your cabinets or choosing the color from the background on your wallpaper for a coordinated look. If your walls are currently pretty plain, you can easily and inexpensively create an accent wall using an elegant vintage sheet, carrying the pattern onto your door either by handpainting it if you're art savvy, or by adding a panel of fabric to the door with cornstarch glue for an elevated Victorian look.

Of course, if you have the funds, replacing an older banged-up door with a new one is another surefire way to refresh your kitchen. Antique stores frequently house treasures like rustic doors with printed glass panels in them, or windowpane panels that you can paint with alcohol ink to create a custom stained glass piece. This not only adds character to your space, but also helps bring in light, and reduces the feeling of separation between the kitchen and the rest of the home without letting cooking smells and noises infiltrate other rooms.

If you currently have a flat-panel door you plan to keep, try using half-round trim to add faux wainscoting to both sides. Sketch where you want wainscoting to be, first, then add your mitered trim in squares and rectangles, securing it with wood glue or finishing nails. Plan to paint the door after the trim is finished to ensure a uniform look, and to avoid damaging your paint job if you realize you have to adjust the trim later on.

You can, of course, also paint a mini mural on doors of all kinds, or use a stencil to add a section of chalk paint at eye-level to leave messages and record grocery lists. If your kitchen has a doorway and no door, consider stenciling the inside of the opening with whimsical botanical designs or decorating it with tiny framed recipe cards and vintage kitchen tools.