How to Make Your Kitchen Look Expensive on a Budget

Last updated on February 22, 2024

Are you looking for ways to give your kitchen a more luxurious feel without breaking the bank? Look no further! 

It can be hard to make your kitchen look expensive on a budget, but it’s possible. With creativity and some cost-effective materials, you can transform your cooking area without spending a fortune.

We’ll show you 7 easy and budget-friendly ways to give it a facelift and make it look like it came straight out of an interior design magazine.

So, let’s get started!

What's Inside

Replace Cabinet Hardware

cabinet hardware

Replacing the cabinet hardware in your kitchen can instantly add a more luxurious and stylish touch. 

The most common types of cabinet hardware are knobs and pulls, so think about which style you’d like to use for your cabinets. 

You can choose from various metals and finishes. From chrome to bronze to gold and beyond, you’ll be able to find something that matches the aesthetic you’re looking for.

If you want to save even more money, try buying an unfinished product and painting it yourself. You can even spray-paint some less expensive pieces for an easy and quick upgrade. With all of these options, you’ll be able to give your cabinets a whole new look.

Install Open Shelving

open shelving

This simple yet stylish design element can be a great way to add storage space and create an elevated aesthetic. 

Open shelving is perfect for displaying dishes, cookbooks, and other decor pieces you want to show off.

Installing open shelving is easy and doesn’t require much in the way of tools or materials. To get started, you’ll need a few basic supplies, including wood screws, drills, brackets, and boards of your desired size and length. You’ll also want to choose a finish that will complement your kitchen’s current color scheme. 

Once you have all the necessary materials, you can begin the installation process.

Start by measuring the area where you’d like the shelves to be installed and mark each point with a pencil. Next, use a drill to make pilot holes in the wall and screw in the brackets to secure the shelves in place. Make sure to level each bracket before securing them.

Finally, place the boards on top of the brackets and secure them with additional screws.

Add a Backsplash

vibrant color backsplash

A backsplash will not only provide a beautiful accent to your kitchen, but it can also protect your walls from spills and splatters. 

When choosing a backsplash, go for one that is easy to clean and has an interesting pattern or color that ties in with the rest of your decor. 

You don’t have to splurge to get a good-looking backsplash; there are many budget-friendly options that still look great. To add an extra touch of luxury, consider adding some beveled or textured tiles in a coordinating color or pattern.

Upgrade Appliances

kitchen appliance installation

Upgrading your appliances can be an easy and affordable way to give your kitchen a fresh, expensive-looking makeover. 

Before you start replacing all of your existing appliances, assess the condition of each one and consider how much life they have left. If it’s time to replace something, opt for high-end models that boast energy efficiency, modern styling, and ease of use. 

Do some research online to find models with all the bells and whistles that fit within your budget. A bonus is that newer appliances often come with warranties, so you know you’ll have a reliable appliance for years to come.

Install Pendant Lights

kitchen mesh pendants

Pendant lights are a great way to add a touch of style and luxury to your kitchen. Not only do they provide additional light, but they can also give your place an elegant, sophisticated look.

When choosing pendant lights, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the room. Make sure the lights you choose are not too large or too small for the space. You’ll also want to pick out a color that complements the other elements in your kitchen, such as the cabinets, countertops, and appliances.

To get the most bang for your buck, look for pendant lights with a unique design or feature. Consider adding an attractive metal finish, such as copper or bronze. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try an edgy geometric style?

When it comes to installation, you can hire a professional or do it yourself. If you decide to search for specialists, check information about them on Nuwber, TruthFinder or BeenVerified to make sure that people who are working in your house are safe to be around.

If you decide to take on the task yourself, read up on the installation process before you start. This will ensure that your pendant lights are installed correctly and securely.

Arrange Fresh Flowers

dining room flowers

Adding fresh flowers to your kitchen instantly gives it a luxurious, expensive look. While expensive bouquets are beautiful, you can still achieve the same effect with inexpensive grocery store blooms. 

Start by arranging the flowers in a simple glass vase, adding accents like pebbles or river rocks for a more sophisticated look. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try arranging the flowers suspending them upside-down from the ceiling. If you don’t have any vases, mason jars and other common kitchen vessels, make perfect flower holders yourself. 

Finally, don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of blooms; this will add an interesting dimension to your display. With a little creativity and imagination, you can transform your kitchen into an elegant space.

Use Metallic Accents

metallic kitchen accents

Metallic accents can add an expensive look to any kitchen. Mirrors, copper pots, pans, and stainless steel appliances will make your place look more luxurious. Try adding metallic accents to your kitchen with the following ideas:

  • Use gold-colored knobs or handles on your cabinets. This simple switch can instantly make your cooking zone more high-end.
  • Choose a sleek and modern stainless steel sink. Not only does this sink look great, but it’s also incredibly durable and easy to clean.
  • Hang a mirror over your sink or stove. It reflects light around your kitchen and adds an elegant touch.
  • Put up a backsplash made of metal tiles. Metal tiles come in various colors and styles, so you’re sure to find one that fits your kitchen’s décor.
  • Invest in copper pots and pans. Copper is stylish and functional; it transfers heat quickly and evenly, making it perfect for cooking.
  • Replace old drawer pulls with shiny brass or chrome pulls.
  • Add a few pieces of art featuring metallic accents. Abstract paintings with copper or silver frames are perfect for adding a touch of class to your kitchen.
  • Install new light fixtures made of metal. For example, pendant lights with bronze or gold finishes.
  • Invest in some stainless steel appliances. For example, a stainless steel refrigerator and range can give your kitchen a modern and sophisticated feel.
  • Hang a collection of copper mugs on the wall. This unique wall décor is stylish and practical, perfect for enjoying a cold drink after a long day of cooking!

The Takeaway

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house and can be one of the most expensive to upgrade. However, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to make your cooking place look luxurious. With creativity and careful budgeting, you can make it look like a million bucks without spending that much.

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