Refresh Your Kitchen

It doesn’t matter how large the party gets, eventually, everyone always winds up in the kitchen — and who can blame them? It’s hard to stay away when mouth-watering smells start wafting from the oven! Of course, kitchens aren’t just where you go to sample what’s cooking; they’re hard-working spaces, too, and they tend to show it. Luckily, a few easy pick-me-ups will make your kitchen so pretty, your guests won’t even notice the dirty dishes.

1. Repaint your cabinets. Shelves and storage take up major wall space in most kitchens and dated cabinets can set the tone for the whole room. But that doesn’t mean you have to pull them out and start again! In fact, a fresh coat of paint is all it takes to create a dramatically different look. It’s finicky work, but goes a long way to freshen up your space.

2. Choose new hardware. Swapping old knobs and pulls for newer styles takes no time at all and you’d be surprised by its impact on the room. There are plenty of chic, affordable options to choose from and, if you do plan to repaint your storage, you’ll probably want new hardware to match.

3. Update your light fixtures. Lighting makes all the difference when it comes to creating a cosy interior, but kitchens are often outfitted with fluorescent or other harsh lights that feel far from welcoming. While high visibility is a must for cooking, a couple of added sconces can provide softer light for when the precision work is over. Or, choose a light fixture with a dimmer, which lets you transition from workspace to lounge atmosphere.