7 Details That Instantly Make Your Kitchen Look More Expensive, According to Designers
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The kitchen is the center of many of our house's greatest memories; it sparks conversation, gatherings with loved ones, and great recipes. Having design elements that invite that spirit of togetherness and provide the comforts needed for long days of cooking are key.
“The kitchen is where magic happens and memories are made. More than just a space for cooking and dining, the kitchen is a communal hub that unites families in laughter, conversation, and shared experiences. It’s a room that evokes aromas, creates tradition through family recipes and collaboration amongst family members of all ages,” says founder of Kitchen Design Group Caren Rideau.
Jean Liu, designer and principal designer of Jean Liu Design agrees. “It’s like there is a magnetic pull into this room of our house. And so it only makes sense to ensure this most used room of the house is inviting, pleasing, and carefully considered through the use of statement decorative pieces, state-of-the-art appliances, and beautiful functional furnishings.”
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to elevate the heart of your home—and many of them don't require a major renovation or significant investment. Giving your kitchen an upgrade that evokes the look of an expensive investment can be achieved with proper planning. Simple upgrades in lighting, appliances, and even new color themes can give your space an elevated look. Here, designers share their top tips to make your kitchen look more expensive.
Hire a Pro
Rideau says, “Investing in professional kitchen design will not only translate your vision into reality, but ensure functionality, efficiency, and long-term satisfaction with your investment.”
While you may think it will be easier or less expensive to design the space yourself, Rideau says, “a professional will provide a realistic budget and mitigate the risk of costly mistakes and ensure that every aspect of your project is well-planned and executed.”
From choosing expensive-looking paint colors for your kitchen cabinets to selecting the perfect layout for your space, hiring a great designer is an investment that will pay dividends over time.
Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware
From knobs to hinges, cabinets are one of the most used pieces in the kitchen. Upgrading your hardware can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen.
Rideau says, “Elevate your space with unique and classy cabinet hardware; [it strikes] the perfect balance between function and aesthetic. I love the look of brass, nickel or even burnished brass, it becomes the jewelry of the kitchen.”
Liu agrees: “Just as you would finish off a great outfit with jewelry that complemented the look, the same idea holds true for kitchens.”
Liu is partial to brass hardware for making your kitchen look luxe. She says, “Not only does it give just the right amount of sheen, the tactile experience exudes warmth and luxury.”
Think About Functional Lighting
Brittany Lyons, founder and designer of Brittany Lyons Interiors, says, “When it comes to lighting, in any room, I’m a huge fan of options. Task lighting is different from ambient lighting, and ambient lighting is different from decorative lighting, but they all aid in the symphony of great design.”
Adding layers of lighting through pendants, recessed lighting, small countertop lamps, and even candles can make your kitchen feel layered and more luxe. Lighting is also a great way to add texture, color, patina, and personality to your space.
Add Statement Light Fixtures
Merge the functionality of good lighting with a beautiful variety of statement fixtures. Rideau says, “Transform your kitchen into a stunning culinary haven with an exquisite ceiling light fixture. Not only do they provide ample illumination for your cooking and clean-up areas, but they also serve as statement pieces that set the tone for captivating and unique kitchen ambience.”
Liu recommends using pendants over an island, chandeliers over a breakfast nook, or ceiling mounted fixtures throughout to further the design narrative. In larger kitchens, like the one pictured here, a statement chandelier feels like an art installation and instantly upgrades the space.
Consider Natural Stone Backsplashes
Give your counter depth with a sleek backsplash. Essentially an extension of the countertop, backsplashes can match another bold color in your kitchen, or set a luxe contrast with more neutral tones.
“Natural stone backsplashes add a touch of sophistication and luxury to a kitchen. The unique veining and textures of each stone slab create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece and are easy to maintain,” says Rideau.
Display Special Collections
While too much clutter can make your kitchen look cheap, showcasing your favorite collections in a curated way actually has the opposite effect. Whether you collect blue and white porcelain, vintage cookbooks, French tableware, or antique glass, these personal displays can add character and charm to an otherwise utilitarian space.
Upgrade Your Appliances and Gadgets
“Another way kitchens look expensive is when they’re tricked out with the latest and greatest appliances and gadgets. Consider the galley sinks with dual gooseneck faucets or the built-in Miele coffee makers churning out unbeatable espressos, or the La Cornue ranges that serve as trophy pieces in the kitchen. One or a combination of these features undoubtedly elevates this part of the house,” says Liu.
Owner and designer of The Black Home Neffi Walker agrees. “If you have room in your kitchen to add a coffee station, do it.” Walker says two of her go-to appliances are the Lelit Bianca espresso machine and the xBloom coffee machine.
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