How to provide a Face Lift to Old Kitchen Cabinets
Just as your kitchen cupboards are older does not mean that they must look like that. Freshen them up with a new coat of paint, a synthetic bois treatment or even something as easy as new hardware. Give them a totally new style with the addition of trim or molding, or even substituting or removing the cabinet doors entirely. Regardless of what the cupboards are made from, an update can make them seem as though they were custom-made to match your perception of kitchen style.
Fresh Paint
Modernize those old seeming kitchen cupboards with a fresh paint color. Clean out the cabinets extensively, and then sand the paintable surfaces just enough to scuff them up a bit. Wipe away the dust, and then prime and paint using a quality washable latex paint, such as a satin finish. Paint the cupboards to complement accent decor in the kitchen, or even provide them a faux bois treatment to re-create the look of your favorite wood grain, such as cherry or a light burled wood finish.
Metal Makeover
Replace all the existing cabinet hardware to get a new, updated look that is suitable for your kitchen’s style. Match the metallic finish to appliances or fixtures in the room to get a cohesive appearance. Measure existing handles or take one with you to your hardware store to ensure you obtain the right size, otherwise you may have to patch and re-drill holes to match the new hardware. If you prefer the style, but not the color of the existing cabinet hardware, update it using a fresh coat and color of spray paint following a thorough cleaning.
Added Dimension
Transform boring, boxy kitchen cupboards with molding and decorative trim to get a high-end appearance. Add crown molding into the tops of cupboards for a customized appearance, staining or painting the molding to match the cabinets. Cover the plain sides of cupboards with beadboard to get a nation or cottage-chic look when painted white. Decorate the door fronts with a frame shaped from trim strips to get a dimensional embellishment.
Altered Views
Update the upper cupboards by replacing the cabinet doors or removing some of these entirely. Switch out solid doors to get glass-fronted doors to showcase your favorite dishes or dishes, or leave the doors off completely, patching the old hinge holes with wood filler prior to repainting the cabinet. Add low-profile, under-cabinet illumination to highlight your countertop kitchenware or decor following dark. Cover the rear wall inside the exposed cupboards with damask or even chevron-printed fabric for a decorative touch.