Summer tends to be the time when people start projects around the house.  If you have an older home, you may be considering updating your kitchen.  What exactly is kitchen updating?  It is just making it more modern, without the drawbacks of a full remodel.  This means no construction or changing major items, just updating small items that can make a big difference.

Here are some easy kitchen updates that you can do during the weekends this summer.  They are relatively quick, and can make your kitchen look much more updated.  If you need other ideas, you may want to check out Kitchens by Wren.

Updating Your Cabinets

The first thing you can do to make your kitchen look more updated is to update your cabinets.  There is no reason to get new cabinets if yours are still in good condition.  Instead, focus on what you can do to make them look new again.

First, you may want to consider changing out the hardware.  Cabinet hardware makes a big difference on how they look, and hardware is relatively cheap.  Check out your local store for inspiration, and see if there is newer hardware that could make your cabinets look sharp.

A second, bigger, project is to update your cabinet color or stain.  You could sand down the face of your cabinets if they are wood and either re-stain them, or paint them a new color.  Depending on the style of your home, fresh white cabinets could make your kitchen look new and modern again.

Upgrading Your Appliances

Another easy upgrade is to get new appliances.  This is probably one of the more expensive upgrades you can do, but getting new stainless steel appliance can really make your kitchen look sharp, and can add functionality.  This is especially true if you haven’t upgraded your appliances in years.

The important thing to consider when upgrading your appliances is to make sure that they will fit into the existing space, and that you have the right type of hook-ups.  For example, don’t get a gas range top if you have electric currently and don’t have a gas line.  The range top wouldn’t work, and adding a gas line adds expense, and may not even be possible.

Also, if you’re getting a new refrigerator, make sure that you have the appropriate water hook ups.  Many old refrigerators didn’t have water in the door, and most new ones do, so plan appropriately.