12 ways to update a kitchen without renovating

If your kitchen looks like it could use a refresh, there are plenty of small ways to update it without having to do a full renovation. From installing new matching or bundled appliances to changing up the cabinet hardware, you can make your kitchen space feel upgraded and modern. Use this article to discover kitchen update ideas to get inspired.

How can I update my existing kitchen?

You can make your kitchen feel updated and modern with a few simple changes like upgrading your appliance finishes, adding a beverage center or coffee bar, updating light fixtures, painting and more. You might even be able to switch up your kitchen layout by adding an island or peninsula without remodeling your entire kitchen.

Read on to learn how to help make your existing kitchen feel like a bright new space.

1. Upgrade kitchen appliances to a cohesive finish

You can give your kitchen a fresh new look by swapping out mismatched refrigerators, ranges or dishwashers for appliances with a uniform finish.

• All black or white appliances can create a bold contrast with your kitchen’s color scheme. 

• A stainless steel finish can give your kitchen a sleek and polished look. 

• Panel-ready options can blend in with your existing cabinetry and kitchen layout for a seamless feel.

Compare black vs. white vs. stainless steel appliances to find the best fit for your family.

Shop Whirlpool^® Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Appliances

Select Whirlpool^® Kitchen Appliances come in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel that can help you keep your kitchen free from the prints and smudges of everyday use thanks to the easy-to-clean surface.

2. Opt for a new range hood

Range hoods not only help to clear smoke and odor from your kitchen, they can also be a bold design choice to make your kitchen feel refreshed. If your current range hood is looking a little dated, consider replacing it with a new one in a modern finish. You can also find range hoods that come complete with built-in lighting, making them both functional and stylish.

Shop Whirlpool^® Range Hoods

A kitchen range hood can help light your cooktop, clear the air and amplify your kitchen’s unique style. That’s why Whirlpool brand offers a variety of range hoods and vents for any kitchen. Explore options with powerful motors and fans that help remove steam, smoke and odors to help keep your kitchen smelling like home.

3. Upgrade your current appliances

If your kitchen is filled with appliances that are nearly as old as you are, you could make the space feel fresh and new by giving them an upgrade. Whether you opt for a new induction cooktop, over-the-range microwave or maybe even a French door refrigerator, you can refresh your kitchen and enjoy the modern technology and sleek design of new appliances. 

Shop Whirlpool^® Induction Cooktops

Whirlpool^® Induction Cooktops are here to help you stay on top of meal prep, even with life’s interruptions. Browse select models with features like the Flexheat^™ Plus Element, a large, rectangular cooking space with pan size detection that only heats the space you need, giving you the flexibility to cook with different size pots and pans, or Temp Cook^™ Induction Technology, which helps you avoid burning with dual temperature sensors that monitor and maintain your heat.

4. Add a beverage center

Beverage centers combine luxury and convenience by storing and displaying your collection of wine and craft beer in a sleek undercounter appliance. You can find models with features like reversible doors, temperature-controlled zones and spill-proof shelving.

You can store all types of beverages inside a beverage center, helping to clear out some space in your main refrigerator and make room for more of your family’s favorite foods.

Shop Whirlpool^® Beverage Centers

Whirlpool^® Beverage Centers help you stay organized with purposeful storage solutions for your beverages. Browse select models with features like the Dual-Temperature Controlled Zone that lets you customize up to two different temperatures to accommodate whatever beverages you’re storing.

5. Add a coffee bar

A coffee bar is a great way to make your kitchen feel more modern. If you love entertaining guests or just enjoy having a cup of coffee at the beginning of a busy day, setting up a coffee bar can be a welcome addition to your kitchen. You can repurpose existing furniture, like a dresser or cabinet, to store all of your coffee supplies in one convenient location.

6. Add shelving and cabinet organizers

If your kitchen feels cluttered, you can add shelving and cabinet organizers to help keep everything in its place. This will not only help make your kitchen feel more organized, but it will also give you more storage space to work with.

Add floating shelves to empty walls, install hanging racks or under-sink cabinets to make the most of your kitchen space. You can also mount pegboards on the wall to both store and display your cookware.

7. Set up a mobile kitchen island

If you love the look of a kitchen island but don’t want to have to remodel your kitchen to get one, consider adding a mobile kitchen island, if you have the space. These islands add counter space and additional seating without being permanent fixtures in your kitchen. You can opt for a mobile island with a butcher block countertop and use the island as a giant cutting board to make preparing meals for your family easier.

8. Choose a new color scheme

A fresh coat of paint can sometimes make a world of a difference in your kitchen. You can use paint to update your kitchen cabinets, walls or even the ceiling. For a more subtle change, consider adding an accent wall to your kitchen to add some personality to the space. If you want to make a big impact, consider painting your kitchen cabinets a new color. This will give your kitchen an entirely new look without having to do a full remodel.

9. Select a new backsplash

The backsplash is a great opportunity to make your kitchen feel refreshed. You can use tile, wood, wallpaper or paint the wall behind your range, cooktop or kitchen sink to create a unique backsplash in your kitchen. Consider using a single color tile arranged in neat patterns to add subtle texture, or go for a more dramatic change by adding mosaic or patterned tile.

10. Update light fixtures

You can brighten up your kitchen by adding new light fixtures to the space. This can mean anything from installing a new chandelier to changing out your old kitchen pendant lights. New light fixtures can really change the appearance of your kitchen and make it feel more modern.

You can even add cabinet lighting to help organize your kitchen cabinets and make it easy to see where all of your dishes and cookware are stored.

11. Replace cabinet hardware

You don’t have to replace all of your cabinets to make your kitchen feel updated, you can simply replace the cabinet hardware. This is a quick and easy kitchen update that can take your kitchen from feeling dated to modern in just a few simple steps.

Look for new knobs and handles in a finish that complements your existing décor and appliances to create a cohesive look in your kitchen.

12. Update your decor

Giving the decor in your kitchen a refresh is a simple and easy way to update your kitchen without having to go through a complete renovation. Add a splash of your style and personality through colorful rugs, bright green house plants, textured dish towels and vibrant artwork. 

Explore Whirlpool^® Kitchen Appliances

Whether you’re looking for a new refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave or range hood, Whirlpool^® Kitchen Appliances offer the flexibility to take on whatever your day brings. Browse select models with convenient features and stylish finishes like Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel or panel-ready options to match your kitchen’s design.