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Dear design aficionados,
Many of us find ourselves with those builder-grade kitchens that are as exciting as last week’s leftovers. And while they’re totally fine to keep the food flowing, as time passes and our tastes evolve, we all crave that jaw-dropping kitchen feel—like something straight out of a glossy magazine.
Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! I’m here to share some fabulous tips that will turn your kitchen from drab to fab, giving it that designer upgrade you’ve been dreaming about. And hey, even if you’re not itching for a full-on transformation, you just might find a nugget of inspiration among these pro tips.
Table of Contents
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1. Patterns
When it comes to patterns, it’s all about striking the right balance. While too many can clutter your kitchen’s vibe, the right choice can bring your space to life. Personally, I’d lean toward a patterned countertop to add that splash of personality.
It’s a fabulous look while keeping the backsplash simple and serene. Remember, timeless doesn’t mean boring; it means creating a look that feels fresh and stylish for years to come.
2. countertops
I know quartz countertops are all the rage these days, and I’ll admit, some patterns can look downright stunning and realistic. But here’s a little secret: I’m just not a fan! Honey and I are on the brink of closing on our new-to-us home, and as we gear up to upgrade the kitchen, we’ve got cooking on our minds. We need a surface that can handle the heat (literally!) without risking any major meltdowns.
That’s why we’re going for quartzite—it’s stronger than most granite and often channels that luxurious marble look. As for an edge profile , there are several out there, but I’m a straight edge girl at heart. Clean lines, classic style—just like me!
3. backsplash
If you’re taking my advice and letting the countertop steal the spotlight, then it’s all about keeping that backsplash understated and chic. Think of a simple, neutral tile that complements your choice beautifully. I’m a total sucker for the classic look of plain subway tiles—they’re sleek, timeless, and oh-so-versatile! Or, if you’re feeling a bit nostalgic, those 4-5″ square tiles can add a touch of retro charm while keeping things nice and clean.
Now, here’s a big NO in my book: tiling the side walls. Unless there’s a water source nearby, side wall tiles can look awkward and are definitely not making the designer cut. Keep it classy and let the backsplash do its job without unnecessary embellishments!
And let’s not forget about those electrical outlets and power switches in the backsplash! They deserve a little love too. For some insider tips on incorporating these elements seamlessly into your kitchen design, check out this blog post.
4. cabinets
Most of the time, your builder-grade cabinetry is fine, but if your doors have that arched raised panel, they’re giving off some seriously dated vibes. If that arch bugs you (trust me, it would drive me nuts every day!), you’ve got options. Consider swapping out the doors for a more modern look.
The best way to elevate your builder cabinets is to make them function like a dream. I’m all about those drawer and cabinet inserts—I couldn’t live without them. They help keep everything tidy and maximize space making your kitchen feel oh-so-sophisticated. So, whether you’re keeping it classic or making a few updates, focusing on function will bring your kitchen to the next level!
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5. hardware
I have a secret: all your cabinets and drawers do NOT need to rock the same pull! I mean, come on—builders love to keep things uniform across all the houses in your development. Right now, we’re looking at a sea of Euro pulls in brushed nickel, and frankly, it screams “builder-grade” – there’s no personality there whatsoever!
I’m a huge fan of mixing things up—knobs on doors and pulls on drawers create a delightful visual contrast. Choose a metal that speaks to your style and adds sophistication. While mixing metals in your space can be daring and fun, I’d recommend sticking to one metal for all your hardware. Your plumbing and lighting can absolutely be different, adding character without looking disjointed.
Now, there are exceptions to every rule! If you’ve got a beautiful wall of cabinetry styled to resemble custom furniture, then go ahead—choose different pulls and knobs for that truly bespoke look. It’ll feel intentional and sophisticated, just like the magazine worthy kitchen you’re creating!
PRO TIP: Not all pulls have to be the same size – I love varying the drawer pull sizes based on the width of the drawers.
6. Faucet
Ooof! Let’s step into the world of faucets. My son recently built a home, and his builder installed one of those fancy Delta touchless faucets. Sounds amazing, right? But here’s the kicker—this one is made of plastic! Say what?! It may look like stainless steel, but trust me, it’s not fooling anyone. I was genuinely shocked!
Here’s the scoop: faucets from big box stores often contain plastic components that can break easily. For a kitchen upgrade you can feel good about, I always prefer to shop at a plumbing supply store. You’ll get the quality you deserve—faucets that are built to last and actually perform like the rock stars they are!
Investing in a solid faucet isn’t just about looks; it’s about function and durability. After all, this is a piece you’ll be using every day, so let’s make sure it’s worth its weight in gold (or at least stainless steel)!
7. lighting
Your kitchen needs a mix of overhead and task lighting to create the perfect ambiance. Installing recessed lights is perfect, but it should be strategic – over the fridge door and pantry entrance ensures you can clearly see inside. If your cabinets don’t reach the ceiling, consider adding rope lighting along the tops. It creates a warm glow—perfect for late-night snack runs or mood lighting to an open floor plan.
When it comes to the island, I almost always recommend opting for two large pendants. The days of those three narrow pendants are long gone! You’ll want to space your pendants at least 30” apart and hang them 36” above the countertop. In my last kitchen, I had a 12.5’ island adorned with two stunning 20” pendants. It offered plenty of light while giving off that gorgeous, custom look. Trust me, the right lighting can elevate your kitchen from functional to fabulous!
Let’s check out this example:
Here’s a kitchen reminiscent of 90s-early 2000s builder-grade style. There are many ways to update it (notice the gray wall…ugh…it doesn’t belong here).
The floors are wood-look LVP in a medium stain color which is fantastic because it’s basically neutral.
When upgrading a builder-grade kitchen, it’s essential to focus on timeless design elements that will endure through trends. Opt for classic cabinetry styles, such as shaker or raised panel doors, and choose high-quality finishes that resist wear.
Ready to Love Your Kitchen again?
Making your builder-grade kitchen timeless doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on key elements like countertops, backsplashes, and hardware, you can create a space that reflects your unique style and stands the test of time. Remember, it’s all about those thoughtful upgrades that make a big impact. So go ahead, embrace your inner designer, and create a kitchen you’ll adore for years to come!
