Sometimes removing your kitchen and replacing it with something new is just not an option. Maybe you’ve just moved or you simply don’t have the time or money right now, but why not look for ways to improve what’s already there?
There are so many ways to give your scheme a sophisticated look without the need for an expensive overhaul. And if you want to make cheap kitchen countertops look more expensive, you’ve come to the right place.
We asked interior designers how they would give a tired, dated or cheap look kitchen countertop a more luxurious look – and their ideas offer a solution for every space, style and budget.
How to make a cheap kitchen countertop look more expensive
Taking out your kitchen countertops for new ones isn’t always an easy solution, but introducing elements that give them a more expensive look is. From backsplashes to decor, these methods are designer-approved.
1. Pair them with a statement backsplash
(Image credit: Fireclay Tile/Anita Yokota/Sara Ligorria-Tramp)
When it comes to kitchen worktops, the backsplash you pair it with is so important to the overall look. So if you want to make a cheap kitchen worktop look more expensive, focus on creating a beautiful backsplash to match.
‘If you have worktops that you want to draw attention away from, adding a tiled backsplash can improve the overall design of your kitchen. It not only takes the space to the next level, but also creates a cohesive and more polished, high-end look,” says Kali Gibson of Fireclay tile.
There are a few different approaches you can take here. This kitchen was all about matching the undertones of the countertop and tiles. ‘Pay attention to the color undertones in your countertop (for example warm or cool tones). Choose tiles with similar undertones to maintain harmony,” suggests Kali.
However, you can also focus on the textures, or opt for one kitchen back wall tile that completely distracts attention from your worktop. ‘Making the tile the focal point with a dynamic design or bold color is a great way to naturally draw attention and direct visual interest.’
2. Paint the cabinets in a complementary color
(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)
The key to making your kitchen countertops look higher is to surround them with complementary textures, materials and colors. And your kitchen cabinets are a great place to set your focus.
“To quickly and effectively refresh the kitchen while keeping your existing countertops, start by painting the cabinets a color that matches the countertop for a cohesive look,” says Sarah Kruse, owner and lead designer at Story designs.
This doesn’t mean you have to repaint every cabinet in your kitchen; consider painting only the lower cabinets that connect to your countertops to minimize the work and create a unique atmosphere. two-tone kitchen schedule.
In this kitchen the black kitchen tops can easily look harsh in an all-white scheme, but the introduction of this rich green hue on the bottom row of cabinets has given the design more visual interest and made the dark counters look softer and more cohesive.
3. Install in a decorative sink
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
If you want to detract from your countertops, add a large, decorative top sink is a great way to improve the overall look. It instantly adds a touch of luxury to the space without having to make any expensive changes.
In this kitchen, a sink with a fluted design on the front adds a decorative element that draws the eye. A design like this immediately makes a cheap kitchen worktop look more expensive, especially if you add a beautiful copper faucet.
4. Beautify your countertops with elegant decor
(Image credit: McGee & Co)
If you want to keep it really simple, you can make your countertops look more expensive by decorating them with stylish and elegant pieces. You could turn kitchen utensils into decor here, or stick with an intentional decor that is purely aesthetic.
‘Simple accents like marble trays can add elegance at no extra cost – use them to hold oils, candles or decorations. These small updates are both affordable and transformative,” says Sarah.
Choose a tray design that matches the color and texture of your countertops. If a marble tray clashes, a wooden option may be better suited. Or some metal trays can add a chic touch to your kitchen.
Choose a chic wooden design: this board stands on round legs and has an unexpected shape. Topped with oil or freshly baked bread, your kitchen worktop will take on a whole new look.
512 Tray from Anastasio Home
For something a little more striking, this marble tray is sure to make a statement. With such a design, your countertops can become the backdrop, instantly giving the whole thing a more expensive finish.
The Met x Anthropologie mirrored metal tray
This vintage-style metal tray is an easy way to add an elegant touch to your worn kitchen worktop. Top it off with a candle or kitchen essentials that need a place to live without making your surfaces look cluttered.
5. Surround your kitchen worktops in a moody shade
(Image credit: deVOL)
If you want to take dark countertops to the next level, sometimes leaning against the kitchen countertops is the best approach moody color palette. Black countertops can feel quite stark and harsh against lighter colors, but embracing deeper colors can feel much more intentional.
This kitchen is a perfect example of that. To counteract and detract from the darkness of the worktops, a deep burgundy shade has been used on the lower cabinets, backsplash and shelf.
The rest of the walls have been preserved warm neutral paint color so that the kitchen still feels light and open, but you no longer concentrate on the kitchen cabinets, but simply admire the trendy design.
Sometimes it’s simply a matter of combining it with the right colours, textures and furnishings to take your existing worktops to the next level. So whether you’re using paint to distract from attention, add a sense of luxury with a splashback, or simply add some elevated decor, there’s a suggestion here for every style and budget.