Top 10 Kitchen Refinishing Ideas for 2018

Transforming your kitchen doesn't always require a huge budget. The secret lies in maximizing the assets you already own. This is precisely why kitchen refinishing has become such a popular trend. By keeping your existing cabinets, tiles, or countertops intact and giving them a fresh makeover, you can achieve impressive results without breaking the bank. Take a look at these top ten kitchen refinishing ideas from 2018, brought to you by Maryland Tub and Tile.

1 – Give Your Kitchen Cabinets a New Lease of Life

If your cabinets are still in decent condition, a fresh coat of paint or stain can work wonders. Start by sanding or stripping any old paint or varnish, then apply your chosen color. For instance, you can transform honey oak cabinets into a rich walnut hue or lighten up a dark kitchen with a crisp white paint job. A trending idea for 2018 is going for two-tone cabinets—opt for white on top and a light grey on the bottom. This creates an eye-catching contrast and gives your kitchen a contemporary feel.

2 – Swap Out Your Cabinet Doors for a Modern Look

Outdated cabinet doors can clash with modern kitchen aesthetics. Fortunately, you can simply replace them without replacing the entire cabinet set. While this approach costs more than repainting, it’s ideal if you're dissatisfied with your current door style. Ensure the new doors match your existing cabinet dimensions and are easy to install. After selecting the right fit, simply paint or stain them to match your updated theme.

3 – Breathe New Life into Your Countertops

Refinishing your countertops is an excellent way to save on kitchen renovations. It's quicker and far less expensive than replacing them entirely. If your countertops have minor damage, we can fix those issues before applying the refinishing layer. The final product will be a seamless surface that extends the lifespan of your counters. Choose from various styles that mimic natural stone or opt for a solid color—it’s up to you! Stone finishes look sophisticated and hide dirt better than plain colors, making maintenance easier. Reach out to Maryland Tub and Tile for a free quote on countertop refinishing.

4 – Refresh Your Kitchen with New Hardware

A quick and easy way to refresh your kitchen is by swapping out outdated hardware. Replace your old knobs, pulls, and hinges with something more modern. For example, switch brass and white door knobs for sleek brushed nickel. This small change can make a significant impact. If you're replacing hardware with multiple holes, ensure the new pieces align properly. Bringing one handle to the store as a guide can prevent headaches. Otherwise, you might need to drill new holes to fit the new hardware.

5 – Update Your Backsplash Without Tearing It Down

There’s no need to rip out your tile backsplash to give it a fresh appearance. Instead, consider tile refinishing. An epoxy coating covers both the tiles and grout, eliminating unsightly stains. Some kitchens look great with pristine white backsplashes, while others benefit from a stone finish that matches the countertops. Our team in Maryland can help you decide what works best for your space. We can even repair damaged tiles before refinishing to ensure a flawless finish.

6 – Elevate Cabinets with Crown Molding

Add elegance to your kitchen with crown molding. While this might require professional installation, it’s a budget-friendly way to enhance your space. Match the molding to your cabinets by painting or staining it appropriately. This subtle touch can make even the simplest cabinets appear high-end. Extend the same treatment to your bathroom cabinets for a cohesive look throughout your home.

7 – Install Under-Cabinet Lighting

Under-cabinet lighting is both practical and stylish. Affordable kits are available online, allowing you to install them easily. This additional illumination is particularly useful during meal prep or nighttime visits to the kitchen. Even better, under-cabinet lights give your space a luxurious vibe at minimal cost. For added ambiance, consider installing lights within glass or frosted cabinets to create a warm glow.

8 – Optimize Storage for a Neater Kitchen

Maximizing storage can make your kitchen feel more organized and spacious. A great example is the narrow space beside your refrigerator. This area is perfect for a roll-out pantry, providing storage for cans, spices, and other essentials. This frees up cabinet space for larger items. In smaller kitchens, creative solutions like wall shelves or pull-out drawers can help maximize every inch of available space.

9 – Upgrade Appliances Without Overspending

Stainless steel appliances exude luxury, but they don’t have to break the bank. Prices have dropped significantly in recent years, making upgrades more accessible. While refrigerators remain the priciest item, you can gradually update your appliances over time. Additionally, check with local appliance repair shops—they often have refurbished models at discounted prices. Sometimes, a slightly dented appliance can be placed in a less visible spot, saving you even more money.

10 – Achieve Consistency with Matching Finishes

Maintaining a unified aesthetic in your kitchen ensures it feels modern and polished. Take inventory of all metallic finishes—door handles, light fixtures, faucets, etc.—and ensure they match. Copper is trending in 2018, but satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, or brushed gold can also work beautifully. This final touch completes your kitchen refinishing project and ensures your home feels cohesive on a budget.

For assistance with bathroom renovations, reach out to Maryland Tub and Tile.