It is no surprise that kitchen redesigns are some of the most common projects undertaken by homeowners. In the past few decades, the kitchen has come to function not only as a space for cooking and meal prep, but as a social center for the home. While a gut renovation is an exciting challenge to take on, its no small feat. But fear not: Whether you are a renter, on a tight budget, or just not willing to commit to a complete overhaul, there are plenty of easier ways to upgrade your kitchen using far less time, money, and energy. If you have a free weekend or afternoon, make one (or several) of these updates to give your kitchen a fresh new look.

Add a rug
While rugs are usually reserved for living rooms and bedrooms, they also add warmth, color, and texture to the kitchen. Plus, runners in front of a high-use area, as in this kitchen by designer Becki Owens, provide comfort while you wash dishes or chop vegetables.

Swap out your backsplash
Sick of your kitchens color? Try a bold tile, like this metallic from New Ravenna, to give new life. If retiling is too complicated, the Home Depot sells a line of convincing trompe loeil peel-and-stick tile, which is essentially foolproof to install (and perfect for rental spaces)

Install a pendant light
Easier to install than built-in lighting but with the same effect, pendants are both functional and stylish in the kitchen. If hard wiring is out of the question, many come with cords, which can be run or draped across the ceiling using brackets.

Get organized
Organization doesnt have to be boring: Use pretty storage containers on open shelves, like in this California kitchen, and consider a pot rack for easy access and visual interest.

Make a coffee nook
Coffee junkie? Dedicate a corner of your kitchen to your caffeine fix, as AD is digital photo editor Melissa Maria did in her home, and your mornings are guaranteed to be much brighter.

Upgrade your cookware
Beautiful pots and pans, including this copper set from Williams-Sonoma, will amp up any style kitchen—and make for better meals.

Text By Hadley Keller

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