Here are 10 super simple ways to make your oak cabinets look modern without painting them!
If you’ve decided to update your kitchen (or bathroom) but the thought of painting your oak cabinets gives you pause, then you’re in the right place!
Here’s What We’ll Cover:
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Why You Don’t Need Paint To Make Your Oak Cabinets Look Modern (Save Your Time & Money!)
Painting oak cabinets can be exhaustive work and very time-consuming (not to mention, it requires some skill not everyone has).
First, you’ve got to decide on a paint color that will match all of the other elements in your kitchen.
Then you’re stuck buying supplies, removing the cabinet doors, sanding, priming, etc.
And you haven’t even started painting yet!
If this seems like too much work, don’t worry. You can achieve a modern and updated kitchen without doing any of those tedious steps.
Can Oak Cabinets Look Modern Without Painting Them?
Absolutely!
Oak (or any kind of wood) cabinets can be styled in many ways that make them look fresh and updated.
This post will show you 10 ways to make your oak cabinets look modern that are both easy and available in all budgets!
10 Easy Ways To Make Your Oak Cabinets Modern
1. Give Those Cabinets A Thorough Scrub
Alright, this one might be a given.
But cabinets are usually overlooked during routine home cleaning.
With all of the hands constantly touching them every day, nasty grime can quickly accumulate on your oak cabinets!
Trust us, nothing can drag down the look of your kitchen quite like dirt, food smears, and dust.
Give your oak cabinets a deep cleaning with a reliable cabinet cleaner and set yourself up for success on this project!
2. Fresh Hardware
New and modern hardware is one of the easiest ways to upgrade the look of your oak cabinets!
No matter the theme or other elements in your kitchen, the options for new cabinet hardware are limitless.
For the most modern look, replace any old knobs with minimalist matte black cabinet pulls.
Other popular cabinet pull options are brushed nickel and brass.
If your budget allows for it, you can add in some wonderfully creative cabinet pulls as well!
3. Under Cabinet Lighting
Outdated light fixtures can also be hindering the look of your kitchen.
While updating your light fixtures is a great idea, there’s an easier solution to making your oak cabinets look modern.
Consider adding in under cabinet lighting!
Under cabinet lighting can be as simple as an LED strip, so installation is a breeze and the cost is low.
Choose cool, white lighting options for the most modern style!
4. Glass Inserts
It’s no secret that oak cabinets can look bulky and visually overbearing.
To visually lighten the look of oak cabinets, consider adding glass inserts into the cabinet doors!
Replace your solid oak cabinet doors with clear or frosted glass inserts.
By doing this, your oak cabinets will look modern, open, and interesting!
5. Change Out Your Countertops
More often than not, oak cabinets are traditionally paired with dark granite countertops.
As we discussed in Tip #2, combining dark cabinets with another deep-colored element makes the room look dated and out of style.
If your budget allows it, consider changing out your dark countertops with white marble, concrete, or quartz selections. For a cost-effective option, use faux materials!
This will add interesting dimension to the overall room and will transform your cabinets into a stunning focal point instead of an eye sore.
6. Upgrade Your Appliances
Mismatched color appliances can dramatically affect the visual appeal of your kitchen.
The multiple colors also clash with your oak cabinets, and make it more difficult for you to achieve a modern style.
Sleek and upgraded appliances will improve the overall room aesthetic!
If possible, opt for matching these appliances whenever you can:
- Stove/Oven
- Refrigerator
- Sink/Faucet
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
7. Add A Kitchen Island
If you’re not interested in replacing your countertops or appliances, no worries!
There are other interesting changes you can add to your kitchen to make your oak cabinets look modern.
For instance, consider adding a rolling kitchen island!
Not only do kitchen islands add a more modern feel to your kitchen, they also allow for additional storage opportunities.
By adding light-colored elements in the space around your oak cabinets, you’ll be able to brighten the overall room.
8. Remove Upper Cabinets
If you’re on board for a more drastic change, remove your upper oak cabinets and replace them with floating shelves.
Open shelving options promote an airy, vibrant feel to your kitchen.
By keeping the lower oak cabinets in place, you’ll add beautiful contrast to your kitchen.
9. Modern Decor
Now that we’ve covered the interior kitchen elements that play a large role in making your oak cabinets look modern, let’s finally move to decor!
Try replacing your dated seating with modern bar stools or upgrading your glassware for stylish pieces.
This will help your kitchen achieve a cohesive aesthetic that you can be proud of.
10. Update Your Walls (Light Colors)
The walls in your kitchen (or bathroom) can sometimes be the main culprit in making your room look dated, not the oak cabinets.
If your walls are a dark color (like burgundy, brown, or dark gray) then also having dark-colored cabinets can make any room look small and cramped.
Try add a light-colored backsplash in these areas!
Or if you’re up for it, consider using easy-to-install peel-and stick-wallpaper.
Whatever route you choose to go, make sure you choose a light color to beautifully contrast your dark oak cabinets.
Key Takeaways For Making Your Oak Cabinets Look Modern
In summary, it’s not difficult to make your oak cabinets look modern!
With a few clever tricks, you can accomplish this in no time.
Whenever possible, add contrast to your kitchen by making your walls and countertops lighter.
Upgrade your appliances, lighting, hardware, and kitchen decor in ways that make the most sense for you.
What’s your favorite way to make oak cabinets look modern?
Comment below and let me know!
This post was all about how to make oak cabinets look modern without painting them!
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