There are numerous ways to brighten up a kitchen despite your budget. A dark, dreary kitchen makes cooking a bleak activity, but with a few ideas, you can revamp your kitchen from aesthetic. Keep in mind you do not have to do an extensive kitchen remodel to see significant improvement.

Tips to Brighten Up Your Kitchen

If you have a kitchen that feels small, dark, and cramped, here are three easy ways to brighten your kitchen:

1. Paint the entire kitchen white

Painting the walls, ceiling, cabinets, countertops, tile, and appliances white can brighten up a space considerably. White also creates a clean fresh look and is a popular choice for designing for new or existing homes. To contrast the white paint you can add a splash of color with accents or backsplashes.

Believe it or not here are actually dozens of Sherwin Williams white colors to decide from. If this is a decision that overwhelms you, we suggest White Dove by Benjamin Moore if your kitchen has plenty of light or Simply White by Benjamin Moore for a darker kitchen as our favorite two white paint options.

2. Change up the kitchen lighting

One of the easiest ways to brighten a kitchen is to add more light. A simple option is to purchase light bulbs and tube lights that have a higher wattage. This can be an inexpensive and easy way to add more light.

When looking at lighting in your kitchen, take advantage of your windows if you have them. Make sure the windows aren’t blocked by any window treatments. If you use curtains, opt to use sheer curtains instead of dark ones. The more natural light you can allow into your kitchen area, the more open it will feel.

You will also want to ensure that the light is spread abundantly throughout the kitchen by using proper lighting fixtures on the walls and ceiling. Other options for lighting include pendant lamps, flush-mount ceiling lamps, track lights or even recessed lighting.

Recessed lighting in your kitchen can change the entire feel of the space. Recessed lights are tucked into the ceiling, so they are not in your line of site. Another popular option is to install lights in front of your upper cabinets. This allows you to use as much light as possible on your counter space. Lights should always be installed where they are needed most, such as above the sink and food prep areas. Under-cabinet lighting creates a warm glow and ambiance throughout the kitchen.

3. Install mirrors around the space

One of the staples of decorating tricks is the use mirrors to reflect light. This creates a feeling of more light and openness. Find a mirror that matches your kitchen aesthetic and hang it opposite a window or across from the biggest source of light in the kitchen letting it reflect the max amount of light.

Incorporating reflective décor, appliances, and other components helps light travel throughout the kitchen as well. Integrating these elements into your space will quickly help you feel more cheerful and pleasant in your kitchen.

Expert Help to Improve Your Kitchen

When homeowners are curious about ways to brighten up a kitchen, the option are endless, but these simple suggestions can significantly help you enjoy your kitchen more without breaking the bank. If you are looking to upgrade your kitchen to the next level, it is important to use an experienced, well-qualified team to help remodel or brighten up your kitchen. Our team at Modern Blu Austin is ready to help. Give us a call at 469-546-7636 or contact us online to schedule an appointment if you are in the Leander, Cedar Park, or Lago Vista areas.