10 ways to spruce up your kitchen

It’s good to update your home now and then to stay on top of current trends and get rid of things that might not suit you anymore.

If you're on the hunt for ideas to spruce up your kitchen this year, here are 10 of the latest ways you can do so.

Updated hardware

One of the quickest and easiest things to do when updating your kitchen is updating the hardware. Swapping out your outdated wooden handles for metal will add a level of sleekness to your cabinets, and the same goes for your sink faucets. When picking out a metal, look for something on the warmer side, such as brass.

“It exudes a sense of authenticity and charm. Unlike polished metals, which can sometimes feel too sleek or sterile, unlacquered brass develops a patina that enhances natural beauty. This evolving finish tells a story, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a blend of luxury and lived-in warmth,” said interior designer Marie Flanigan in Homes & Gardens. If there’s only one thing you can do to update your kitchen, it should be adding brass hardware.

Repaint cabinets

In 2024, there’s been a huge trend in having a color scheme for your kitchen, specifically earth tones. Start by repainting your cabinets. Don’t be afraid to pick a color that isn’t neutral, as moody blues and greens have dominated kitchens this year. A monochromatic kitchen can be alarming, so adding vibrancy, such as a backsplash with texture and pattern, is essential. Not only will it give your kitchen the pop that it needs, but it’ll add depth to the space.

Light fixtures

Including a large light fixture in the middle of your kitchen will add the artistic flare it needs. Like a centerpiece, it should be the focal of attention. A light feature with an abstract shape and mixed material is trendy and aesthetically pleasing. Including layered lighting is also currently popular. Cabinet World: Kitchen & Bath Design Kitchen Center explained that layering ambient, accent, and task lighting will create a functional and inviting room. “Smart” technology lighting systems are all the rage. It’s also energy efficient and also allows the homeowner to adjust the lighting to their liking. Adding mirrors or mirrored fixtures to your kitchen can be used to allow light to bounce around the room and lighten up your space in an easy way.

Countertops

Marble countertops have been popular for years, but this year, veined marbling and exotic stones have taken over the market. It’s an amazing way to add elegance and luxury to your space.

Add an island or two

If you have a kitchen island, you’re already ahead of the game. They’re popular and functional and allow more counter space to explore your cooking creativity. There’s been an elevation to standard islands lately with even more purpose and beauty. Decorilla wrote an article about 2024 kitchen trends and stated that islands currently include “adjustable heights, built-in charging stations, and even retractable workspaces to accommodate a range of tasks, from working remotely to hosting intimate gatherings.” If you cook frequently, consider double islands. Not only is it popular, but it allows more room for cooking space and other table activities.

Coffee bar/alcohol bar

Bar carts are efficient because they have separate spaces for alcohol and coffee, but if you're running out of room, a built-in coffee or alcohol bar is what you need. It allows more storage space and space for creating a delicious latte or cocktail.

Storage

Kitchens can lack space for cooking tools and gadgets. Having a plethora of items take over the counters is unpleasant to look at and can diminish the space’s purpose. The latest way to solve that problem is hidden storage. This can be as easy as a cabinet door storage rack, slide-out trash can, or something more elevated like a retractable pop-up pantry.

Shelving

Open shelves are another way to tackle storage. Not only is it trendy, but it’s completely customizable, as you can fill the space with whatever fits your needs. It’s a great way to showcase your belongings and add pops of decor visually. Make it diverse with a pop of color, multiple sizes, or a variation of heights.

Kitchen hood

A kitchen hood is definitely not the most glamorous appliance in the kitchen, but surprisingly, we’re seeing trends of big and beautiful vent hoods everywhere! Why? Why not! 2025 kitchen trends are all about being out of the box and finding unique ways to make your cooking space stand out. No more hidden kitchen hoods; instead, look for something with a bold shape and bright colors.

Character

You don’t have to change your kitchen’s aesthetic to make it trendy. In fact, it’s been recently encouraged to mix styles. You can adapt your kitchen to modern trends while keeping your antique pieces. The combination of vintage elements and smart appliances can refresh the area while keeping it cozy and familiar.