You don't have to take your kitchen down to the studs to improve your home's value. Simple changes like painting the kitchen cabinets, installing a kitchen island or replacing outdated appliances can help you breathe new life into your kitchen.

If you're considering remodeling or updating your kitchen this year, review our list of kitchen renovation ideas proven to add value to your home.

Revive Your Cabinets

Refinishing or putting a new coat of paint on your old cabinets is a cost-effective way to bring new life to even the most outdated kitchen. Most kitchen cabinets sit right at eye level, making them one of the first things your guests will notice. Instead of treating them to a blast from the past in the form of dusty and dingy cabinets, bring your kitchen into the modern era by taking these tips into account:

  • Choose your paint wisely –With many options to choose from, it's essential to choose the right paint for your project. Always select high-quality paints, no matter what color you choose. High-quality paints will cost more, but they will be easier to apply, provide a better finish and last longer.
  • Don't forget the fixtures – Updating your kitchen cabinets isn't just priming and painting. Finish your project by adding new fixtures that complement your paint. Cabinet handles are available in all sizes, shapes and materials, giving you many options to personalize your kitchen. 

Add a Kitchen Island

A kitchen island is a versatile addition to any kitchen, providing more space for food prep and storage or as a focal point for entertaining. There are many options on the market for kitchen islands, with luxury additions ranging upwards into thousands of dollars depending on size and materials. Before selecting your kitchen island, consider the following:

  • What's your kitchen renovation goal? – Are you looking for a sturdy work surface to make cooking easier? An island with a butcherblock or quartz topper will be durable enough to stand up to even the largest dinner parties. If you want to create a social focal point, explore options that accommodate stools or other seating options.
  • How much space do you have? – Kitchen islands come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Before selecting an island for your kitchen, take the time to measure it — and your kitchen — to determine if you have enough room. A kitchen island that's too large can create unnecessary clutter and bottlenecks in your kitchen.

Replace Outdated Appliances

Energy-efficient appliances are a benefit in any kitchen. New appliances are a long-term investment that can instantly improve your home value while helping you save money on your energy bills. Dishwashers, freezers and refrigerators are just a few energy-efficient products now available. When shopping for energy-efficient appliances, follow these best practices:

  • Look for the Energy Star® label or logo – Created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992, this important symbol indicates whether an appliance is considered energy efficient.
  • Ask about special offers – Cash rebates and other incentive programs are often offered to encourage homeowners to purchase energy-efficient appliances.
  • Read the Energy Guide label – This includes helpful information about the appliance's estimated annual energy consumption. Compare labels to help determine which brand or model you select for your home.

Freshen Up Your Floors

Of all the surfaces in a home, kitchen floors take the worst beating. Over time, all of the spills, scratches and stains add up, resulting in floors that look dirty or damaged no matter how often you scrub or mop. Replacing your floor is an investment — costs can vary depending on your preferred materials — but selecting a durable surface means you'll enjoy it for years to come. When choosing new flooring for your home, follow these recommendations:

  • Start with samples – You might love that flooring option in the store, but what will it look like in your kitchen? Purchasing flooring samples at a fraction of the cost will enable you to evaluate multiple options before committing to a significant purchase.
  • Compare for consistency – The color and grain of solid and engineered wood flooring can vary from one batch to the next. Avoid awkward mismatches between batches by buying all the flooring you'll need at one time.
  • Measure twice, buy once – Buying too much — or too little — flooring can be a costly mistake that eats up your budget. Work with a trusted professional, or pay close attention when measuring your space to determine how much flooring you'll need. Always buy extra to allow for mistakes and damaged materials.

Light Up Your Kitchen

Lighting can dramatically affect your kitchen, transforming a dim space into a centerpiece for socializing or cooking. Replace outdated light fixtures with modern alternatives — such as eye-catching pendant lighting or minimalist recessed lighting — and swap inefficient incandescent bulbs with environmentally friendly LED alternatives. Here are some kitchen lighting options to help you get your project started:

  • Task lighting – Task lighting, also known as under-cabinet lighting, provides more coverage in spots that might be further away from your kitchen’s primary light sources. Task lighting can be a valuable addition to your kitchen if you often squint at your cookbooks or struggle to find the correct cooking utensil. Task lighting can also draw the eye to a statement backsplash or new kitchen countertops, making it the perfect finishing touch for projects of any size.
  • Ambient lighting – If turning on your kitchen lights feels like standing under a spotlight, ambient lighting can soften your kitchen, making it a more comfortable place to relax and work. Ambient lighting can be functional or decorative, allowing you to add a bit of your personality to the space. Common ambient lighting solutions include recessed lighting — for those who prefer contemporary or modern designs — and chandelier, pendant and bar lighting.

New floors, freshly-painted cabinets and new appliances are all projects that could increase your home's value and improve your appreciation of the space. With these renovation ideas, you can transform your well-worn kitchen into a workspace suitable for a gourmet chef.