Sometimes it can be difficult to imagine a new look. But the next time you are in your kitchen, take a minute to see how many ideas you can invent to inexpensively update the room. As seen in the series on kitchen improvements, a little effort and a minimal amount of cash can easily transform your kitchen from a humdrum room to the highlight of your home.

Be sure to look at cabinetry, countertops, backsplash options, sinks and lighting. Then, last but not least, consider the finishing touches:

DECORATIVE TOUCHES

Color

Perhaps the easiest way to alter the look of your kitchen is to change the color scheme.  Tear down the wallpaper or border and choose a bright, new color to paint on the walls.  Select an interesting, updated color that will bring the room to life.

Windows

Take the old dingy blinds or curtains off the windows, give the windows a good wash and consider leaving the windows bare. If you aren’t fond of that look, add a valance that will coordinate with your walls or find some colorful fabrics and create curtains to cover the lower portion of the windows. This will add a unique look to the kitchen while allowing the sunlight to filter in and illuminate the room.

Knick-knacks

If at all possible, try to stick to a certain theme in your kitchen, at least when it comes to knick-knacks. You may want to go with country, black and white, modern or traditional: whatever the case, choose the look and then select pieces that fit into it. This will strengthen your kitchen’s overall cohesiveness and flow.