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10 Tips for a Kitchen Cabinet Facelift

Ryan FitzgeraldRyan Fitzgerald
Jan 17, 2024 • 9 min read
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10 Tips for a Kitchen Cabinet Facelift
Chapters
01
Paint the Cabinets
02
Add an Undercabinet Lighting
03
Add Cabinet Crown Molding
04
Install New Hardware
05
Replacing Doors
06
Install New Countertops
07
Upgrade Appliances
08
Add New Storage
09
Build a Window Seat
10
Pros and Cons Of Cabinet Facelift

Tips for a Kitchen Cabinet Facelift

Do you want to give your kitchen cabinets a facelift and are wondering how to do it affordably? Keep reading to learn more about how to give your cabinets a facelift. 

If you are a project lover and love fixing up things, home makeovers are your favorite. With many current trends as well as changing trends, it can cost a lot to remodel your home through professionals and companies. 

Cabinets often cover a large part of the walls, so painting them in different colors, refurbishing them, or just adding unique touches can dramatically change the whole look. If you like the cabinets in your home and they are in good shape, repainting is cost-effective and one of the best ways to revamp your home. 

Knowing how to DIY your own cabinets is a perfect way to upgrade your home's cost effect. Refreshing your kitchen is an easy task that you can do with standard tools, straightforward installations, and many other things that are affordable but can make your kitchen look new. 

Here are the tips for a kitchen cabinet facelift. 

1. Paint the Cabinets

To get a professional look, you need to make sure you get high-quality paint. It may cost more, but it will make it last longer, look better, and be more accessible than others. Oil-based paints are moisture and stain-resistant, which is a popular type for kitchens. 

Next, you need to find the right color. Color is one of the most important things when it comes to painting and decorating the interior of your home. The color you choose should complement your counters, floors, and other features and appliances throughout the room. White is one of the most popular colors because it brightens up any room. 

Painting the kitchen cabinets white

You need to make sure you follow all the steps and do not skip any because it will make a massive difference in the end. Some important things to remember are making sure you sand down the surface, remove all hardware, add your primer, do enough coats, and protect it. 

If you are thinking about painting your cabinets, check out DIY tips for painting your cabinets to help you with this project. 

2. Add an Undercabinet Lighting

In most homes, there is missing lighting in the kitchen. The hidden fixture of the undercabinet task lighting helps add a unique style as well as helps you see without using the overhead light. Adding this undercabinet light is very easy to install. 

Connect the fixtures to a dimmer switch, and you will also have a beautiful accent light or nighttime light. If you are not very good at working with electricity, do not worry. The installation of this light is simple and shock-free if you safely cut off the breaker box first. 

Under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen

3. Add Cabinet Crown Molding

Crown Molding trim transforms your kitchen storage into a seamless design and makes your cabinets look like they are custom. Adding extra things to your cabinets simpler by mounting molding on the hardwood frame above your cabinets is how to add the uniqueness that most cabinets do not have. 

Using the frame allows for detailed work and is a straightforward way to add it without any holes or complex assembly. Many people love this option to give their cabinets a facelift because it adds a nice little touch that is subtle but yet has a significant difference in the appearance of the cabinets. 

Crown molding at the top of the cabinets in the kitchen

4. Install New Hardware

Installing hardware for a kitchen cabinet facelift says it all. Hardware gets wear and tear throughout the years and can become rusted or broken over time. Adding new hardware to replace the old ones or getting new style hardware will make a huge difference in the kitchen look. 

Installing new hardware is a very cost-effective and easy way to give the cabinets a new look. You simply remove the old hardware by removing the screws, measure, and mark where your new holes will be, drill the new mounting holes, and install the new hardware. Simple and easy, it significantly impacts the cabinet's appearance. 

5. Replacing Doors

Making the decision to replace your cabinet doors is easy, but the hard part is choosing what kind of doors you want to replace them with. You can choose from custom doors, semi-costume doors, stock or ready-to-assemble, wood, veneer, or laminate. 

Replacing your kitchen cabinet doors can make your kitchen come alive, even if the kitchen is outdated. You can do this step without spending a fortune, which will make a huge impact. Even if there is a slight difference in your old doors, they will still look newer and better and make the kitchen look more attractive. 

6. Install New Countertops

Installing countertops is something many people do not think about. Cracks, stains, and scratches indicate that a brand-new countertop may be the best way to give your kitchen an updated look. Adding the right countertop will make the space look new again. 

On the other hand, if you ever plan on moving, having ugly countertops in bad shape will not get you much money in resale value, but adding new ones will make your home more acceptable to more buyers. 

Installing new countertops will also offer a more durable and easy-to-maintain surface that can withstand more daily wear and tear. New things always lead to improved functionality and make it more efficient. So whether it be for updated looks, durability, or more future buyers, installing new countertops may be the project for you.  

Adding new countertops to the kitchen cabinets

7. Upgrade Appliances

Upgrading appliances is something so tiny and may not make a huge impact, but it does have some. Having older appliances on your new counters or with new cabinets takes away from the updated style. You do not want to waste all that time updating your kitchen and ruining it with ugly and old appliances. 

New appliances are also more energy efficient and will save you money and the environment. On the other hand, more recent appliances have more practical benefits, such as space being designed and enchanted functionality. So, the look in your kitchen will look cleaner and nicer as well, and it may be easier to hide away from oversized bulky items on your counters. 

8. Add New Storage

Adding more storage will give your kitchen a higher value for your home and improve your quality of life. Kitchen storage is critical to the design and helps with the trend of a more open-plan style for less clutter. 

There are so many spaces throughout the kitchen that many people look past, but they can be used for storage. There is a space in between the fridge and cabinets that can be used for storage; adding taller cabinets adds more storage, and adding sliding shelves helps with wasted space and helps you stay organized. 

There are so many simple and little ways to add more storage and organization to your kitchen. Updating the look of your kitchen cabinets is essential, but if your kitchen is cluttered and messy, that takes away from all the work you put into it, so adding more organization will help set the kitchen appearance and functionality together. 

Adding new storage to the inside of the kitchen cabinet

9. Build a Window Seat

Window seats are a desirable option to revamp your home; only a few older homes seem to have them now. To build one, you need a niche that features a window. After that, you will need. A seat that is custom-built by a cabinetmaker to fit the exact width and height of the window. However, remember this option is one of the most expensive and time-consuming but has a huge impact on your kitchen. 

Most people want the window seat because it makes the kitchen more attractive, adds seating, adds an abundance of storage space, and is unique since many homes do not have it. If you are interested in building a window seat, search around for help and find the best way and option to do it for you. You will not regret it. 

10. Pros and Cons Of Cabinet Facelift

Doing a kitchen cabinet facelift can have many advantages as well as disadvantages. However, it all depends on what your preferences are and your lifestyle. Many people love updating things and being on trend, while others like the original style. Below are a few pros and cons of the facelift that may help you decide whether it is right for you. 

Pros:
  • Retains the kitchen layout
  • There are many various options and styles
  • You save money
  • It is an eco-friendly option
  • DIY Project on your own
Cons:
  • May be time consuming
  • Can't change the layout much
  • Interiors can not be changed
  • DIY can be hard
  • Sometimes, costs may add up
FAQS

How to do a facelift on kitchen cabinets?

To reface your cabinets in the kitchen, you can do a couple of things. You can remove any existing drawers and cabinet doors, add new paint or stain, add new hardware, install new doors, add undercabinet light, or many other things. Updating your kitchen is simple and easy. 

What are the downsides of cabinet refacing?

Refacing your cabinets means that your kitchen layout will stay the same. You are just updating and improving the space and functionality. So, if you are looking for a more significant change and layout change, refacing may not be enough for you. 

How can I make my kitchen cabinets look better?

Refacing your cabinets will be done quickly, cost-effectively, and with minimal disruption to your kitchen. It takes less time than installing all new cabinets. The kitchen is a space that is used every day and is needed in a home, so doing a DIY project may take away from its functionality of it, but if you are refacing and adding new features, you will not have that issue. 

Tips for a Kitchen Cabinet Facelift

Cabinets often cover a large part of the walls, so painting them in different colors, refurbishing them, or just adding unique touches can dramatically change the whole look. If you like the cabinets in your home and they are in good shape, repainting is cost-effective and one of the best ways to revamp your home. 

Refreshing your kitchen is an easy task that you can do with standard tools, straightforward installations, and many other things that are affordable but can make your kitchen look new. Whether you want a new color, new style, or even added storage, you can do it easily on your own and change the whole look of your kitchen. 

Facelifting your cabinets is a great way to revamp your home cost-effectively. Many people enjoy DIY projects, so updating and adding to your cabinets could be the perfect solution if you're looking for a budget-friendly home makeover. 

Whether you are fixing up a home to sell, just bought a new home, or are repairing things to sell your home for a higher cost, giving the kitchen cabinets a facelift is something that can dramatically change the kitchen and the way your home looks. 

However, if you are interested in selling or buying a home, please contact us here or visit our website to connect you with one of our local agents at Raleigh Realty to help you.  

WRITTEN BY
Ryan Fitzgerald
Ryan Fitzgerald
Realtor

Ryan Fitzgerald is a top Realtor®, founder and owner of Raleigh Realty, one of the Triangle’s fastest-growing and most innovative real estate brokerages. Driven by a mission to be the best—not the biggest—brokerage in Raleigh, Ryan has built Raleigh Realty into a firm known for its cutting-edge marketing, high-performing agents, and culture rooted in collaboration, growth, and excellence.

Raleigh Realty

Under Ryan’s leadership, Raleigh Realty has become a top boutique brokerage in Raleigh-Durham, serving clients across Wake County and the surrounding areas. Raleigh Realty stands apart for its:

  • Top-Tier Agents – Every Realtor on the team is hand-selected for their skill, professionalism, and client-first approach. Raleigh Realty isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality.

  • Award-Winning Website – RaleighRealty.com is consistently ranked among the best real estate websites with incredible user experience, cutting-edge IDX technology, and hyper-local guides that help buyers and sellers navigate the market.

  • Inbound Lead Generation – With a strong focus on SEO and digital marketing, the brokerage generates a steady flow of organic leads, giving agents the opportunity to grow thriving businesses.

  • Supportive Culture – Ryan emphasizes mentorship, accountability, and autonomy—no micromanaging, just the right systems and tools for agents to succeed.

  • Community Focus – From neighborhood spotlights to relocation guides, Raleigh Realty is committed to being a resource for both buyers and sellers as they make one of life’s biggest decisions.

The firm continues to expand its reach, with the goal of 100 agents and $1 billion in annual sales volume by 2030—all while staying true to its boutique, client-centered values.

Awards & Recognition

Ryan already has notable public credentials and prestige:

  • He has been featured in outlets such as Forbes, Wall Street Journal, U.S. News, among others (as mentioned on the site).

  • Realtor Magazine named him a “Top 30 Under 30” in the country (as noted on his Raleigh Realty page).

  • Raleigh Realty is widely acknowledged in the local real estate community for its digital prowess and thought leadership.

  • The company is consistently ranked among the top real estate firms in Raleigh and is known for having one of the highest-traffic real estate websites in the region.

Community Involvement & Giving Back

Ryan’s leadership extends far beyond the closing table. He has built Raleigh Realty to be a company that actively gives back to the community and invests in making Raleigh a better place to live.

  • The Green Chair Project – Ryan and Raleigh Realty proudly support The Green Chair Project, a local nonprofit that provides essential furnishings and household items to families transitioning out of homelessness, crisis, or disaster. By partnering with this organization, Ryan helps ensure families have the comfort and dignity of a furnished home.

  • Food Donations & Drives – Raleigh Realty regularly organizes and contributes to food donation efforts, partnering with local pantries and organizations to help fight food insecurity across Wake County. These efforts bring agents, clients, and neighbors together to support those in need.

  • Local Events & Client Appreciation – Raleigh Realty hosts family-friendly gatherings such as pumpkin patch outings, coffee + donut socials, and seasonal celebrations designed to strengthen neighborhood bonds.

  • Supporting Schools & Youth Programs – Ryan partners with local schools and youth organizations to provide resources, sponsorships, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that the next generation has access to growth and guidance.

  • Small Business Advocacy – Raleigh Realty proudly highlights and partners with local small businesses, amplifying their visibility and reinforcing Raleigh’s reputation as a vibrant place to live and work.

For Ryan, success is measured not just in sales, but in the lasting relationships and community impact Raleigh Realty leaves behind.

AgentLoft – Powering the Next Generation of Realtors

Ryan is also the visionary behind AgentLoft, a SaaS platform designed to help Realtors nationwide build their brand and generate leads. AgentLoft websites combine IDX technology, SEO expertise, and AI integration to give agents the competitive edge they need.

Personal Mission

As a proud father to his daughter Emma, Ryan’s mission is bigger than business. He’s dedicated to building a brokerage and a platform that create opportunity and stability for families, clients, and agents alike. His approach blends entrepreneurship with empathy—ensuring that Raleigh Realty continues to grow not just in sales volume, but in reputation, trust, and impact.


👉 Whether you’re buying or selling a home, or you’re a Realtor looking for the right brokerage to grow your business, Raleigh Realty—under Ryan Fitzgerald’s leadership—offers the expertise, technology, and community-minded culture to help you succeed.

Chapters
01
Paint the Cabinets
02
Add an Undercabinet Lighting
03
Add Cabinet Crown Molding
04
Install New Hardware
05
Replacing Doors
06
Install New Countertops
07
Upgrade Appliances
08
Add New Storage
09
Build a Window Seat
10
Pros and Cons Of Cabinet Facelift
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