There is no need to opt for a complete overhaul when you plan to replace your old kitchen with a more modern setting. There are plenty of ways in which you can make the kitchen look and feel more modern without spending too much. Here are tips by Dr Prem Jagyasi and his team members that can transform your century old kitchen into a more modern, inviting space.
Substitute innovative alternatives for old metals
Old, rusty metal handles and knobs can be replaced with more innovative alternatives like stainless steel, chrome, metal, nickel and brushed aluminum. You will be surprised as to how simply changing the knobs and handles for the cabinets and range hood can make your kitchen look new almost instantly.
Repaint the cabinets
If the cabinets are in good condition, consider repainting them as opposed to replacing them. A coat of fresh paint would do wonders in restoring the cabinetry to its formal glory. In addition to painting the cabinets with bold colors, you can opt for elaborate detailing on the cabinet doors or use faux finishes to highlight them. Easy to finish and very cost effective, this tip will make your kitchen look airy and inviting almost immediately.
Opt for built-in storage
Modern kitchens today come with built in storage options that help minimize clutter on the countertop and kitchen island. If you have the budget, consider opting for a makeover, which would involve installing built in storage options that would give you plenty of space to store everything you want without looking overcrowded. This would give your old kitchen a clean look that is a common feature in many modern kitchens today.
Change the lighting
Old kitchens used to have very dim lights that served no purpose to highlight the area. The more modern kitchens however, come with a variety of lighting options that offer more brightness and versatility to the kitchen. So take out the overhead lights and opt for modern alternatives like can lights, pendant lights, under cabinet lights, chandeliers and recessed lightings that would make your kitchen stand out with a vibe of its own.
Opt for modern seating options
The seats in your kitchen give away the latter’s age. So consider opting for some modern, innovative seating options rather than the age old wooden and plastic chairs. Some of the more interesting choices would include countertop stools, bar seats or benches. The newer kitchens serve more purpose than just cooking, and can be used to entertain your family members and guests. So make sure you have a handful of these seats placed in the kitchen.
Replace flooring with more resilient materials
Old kitchens were famous for their linoleum and vinyl flooring. You can opt to replace these with more resilient materials like tiles, slate, travertine, stones or wood. In addition to lasting longer, these materials will add that much needed modern touch to your kitchen.
Consider an open kitchen
Gone are the days when kitchens were supposed to be sandwiched between walls that offered minimal views of the room. Modern kitchens today, adopt an open space approach where one wall is knocked down to connect the kitchen with the adjacent room (in most cases this would be the living room). An open floor space plan would not only make your kitchen look bigger, it would also brighten it up considerably, making the space look ultra-modern for sure.
Choose energy efficient appliances
One of the most common sightings in a modern kitchen is the energy saving appliance that signifies better technology of the modern world. As such, stocking your kitchen with energy efficient appliances would surely increase its futuristic appeal. It would also reduce your energy and water usage bills to a great extent, thus giving back to you in more ways than one.
Summary
You might be in love with your old kitchen, but it is time to refurbish it so it matches the requirements of the modern style. A modern kitchen offers advantages in both, form, and function.
