Use These 4 Tips to Brighten Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It is where family and friends gather, where you get creative and where life happens. But it is hard to enjoy any of that in a kitchen that feels dark and gloomy.

The fix? Brighten it up. These updates can turn an outdated kitchen into the light, cheerful space you want.

1. Layer Your Lighting

Lighting changes everything about how a kitchen looks and feels. Overhead fixtures and windows rarely reach every corner, so layer several types of light:

• Under-cabinet lighting brightens counters and dark corners and makes the room feel as if it has more natural light.
• Recessed lighting provides clean, even general light.
• Pendants or a chandelier over the island or breakfast table add personality and make food prep more comfortable.

2. Paint It Light, Then Add Contrast

White and light colors on cabinets and walls reflect natural light and make a kitchen feel brighter and bigger. Every paint color has a light reflectance value (LRV). The closer a color is to white, the higher its LRV.

A light base needs some contrast so it does not feel plain or cold. Anchor the room with a navy island or darker backsplash, or bring in a bright accent color through art and collected pieces. You do not need an all-white kitchen to get a light-filled space, and our designers can help you find the right balance.

3. Add Accent Accessories and Greenery

A few colorful pieces can brighten the space and make a statement without cluttering it.

• Everyday appliances like coffee makers and blenders now come in bold, cheerful colors.
• Placemats, lamp shades and window treatments add easy pops of color.
• Plants soften the look, freshen the air and are one of the simplest, least expensive updates you can make.

4. Keep It Simple

Clear the clutter. Store small appliances in an appliance garage or smart cabinet storage like a mixer lift, and keep only a few items on the counters, such as a plant, small art or a wood cutting board. Leave out one or two colorful appliances you use daily, but too many large items will make the kitchen feel cramped. A minimal kitchen stays bright and spacious.

Ready for a Brighter Kitchen?

Bright kitchens never go out of style. If you need more than paint and lighting, such as a new layout or a bigger space, our design-build team can help. For more ideas, see five can't-miss kitchen remodel features and our kitchen remodel projects. Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.