Refinishing Cabinets without Altering the Original Aesthetic

In most cases of cabinet refinishing, the whole goal is to completely change the cabinets’ look. However, not all homeowners want their cabinets to look entirely different. Especially in cases with natural wood cabinets, people appreciate their current cabinets but just want them to look a little more stylish and modern. Here are some things that can update a cabinet without getting rid of the original aesthetic.

Remove Some of the Cabinets

One of the main complaints people have with older cabinets is that they make the room look too crowded, busy, or dark. This can be solved without having to paint every cabinet. Instead, consider just removing one or two of the top boxes and replacing them with open shelves. This is a trendy, modern look that can add style to the kitchen while keeping most of the cabinets the same.

Replace the Hardware

Changing the hardware is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to refinish cabinets. With just a few hundred dollars in supplies and a few minutes with a drill, people can update their kitchen. New pulls in a more modern style can keep cabinets from looking outdated. They can also subtly change the color of a cabinet. A cool toned metal can help tone down extremely warm wood, while a lighter shade of drawer pull can help lighten up dark cabinets.

Take Out Unnecessary Pieces

Many cabinets come with a lot of extra trim and add ons. Things like wood paneling over the fridge, a massive wine rack, or heavy wood trim above the cabinets tend to add bulk without actually being all that functional. Removing these pieces let the original cabinets shine while also helping the kitchen look a little sleeker.

Try a New Stain or Finish

This solution is not ideal for homeowners who want to avoid lengthy projects. However, it is perfect for people who want to subtly change their cabinets without getting a whole new look. Stains allow people to change the tint of the wood while keeping the original wood grain present, while finishes can change the glossiness of the cabinets. Something as simple as making the wood a little more gray-toned and a little less shiny can make your cabinets work better with your decor.