How to Update Kitchen Cabinets

Sometimes a complete kitchen renovation just isn't possible-but you can give your kitchen a whole new look by bringing the inside of your cabinets into the spotlight. Glass-front cabinets are both functional and attractive, and the look can open up your space dramatically-but to give the look a little more pizzazz-make the cabinet interiors something worth looking at. Just follow these simple directions.

Things You'll Need

• Primer
• Paint
• Paintbrushes
• Rollers
• Glass cabinet doors
• Cabinet hardware
• Dishware for display

Instructions

1. Empty your cabinets and remove the upper cabinet doors

2. Prepare and prime the interiors of cabinets. Let dry.

3. Paint the cabinet interiors in the color of your choice. (Instead of paint, you could use wallpaper in your cabinet interiors. But if you do opt for paper, choose one that will hold up well to moisture and heavy use.)

4. Replace the doors with new glass-fronted doors to show off your freshly painted interiors.

5. Replace knobs, if needed. (There are so many wonderful knobs out there; be creative and update these.)

6. Arrange dishware, glassware and other aesthetically appealing kitchen utensils in the cabinets. They don't all have to line up perfectly, but it helps the look if you don't store them too haphazardly!

Tips & Warnings

• When replacing upper cabinet doors, you might find that you can't find an exact match for the lower cabinets. If this is the case, you have two options: choose a completely different finish for the new cabinet doors or refinish both the upper and lower cabinets. A new color and a few coats of paint can make a huge impact in an out-of-date kitchen.