For a number of reasons, oak cabinets were popular in the 1980s and 1990s. They were inexpensive, simple to maintain, and simple to integrate with the doors and trim. Particularly in tract house complexes, they were well-liked.
Typically, the choices were solid oak, laminate with oak trim, or white melamine.
Here are suggestions and best ideas on how to make oak kitchen cabinets look modern.
Paint the Cabinets:
Probably, you’ve already given this possibility some thought. It gives an astonishing makeover and is a straightforward remedy. It makes the kitchen lighter and brighter and brings out the colors. I have repeatedly and successfully recommended my clients to do this.
For the best outcomes, you should be aware of the following.
1. Pick a neutral white that isn’t too glaring. You could want a little bit of a gray undertone if your color scheme is predominantly blue. Go for a beige undertone if your color scheme is warm. To help you out, check out this list by Benjamin Moore.
2. Make sure that whoever is painting first sands the cabinets. Since oak has a thick grain, you should soften the appearance so that less grain is seen. Sanding will help, but you’ll never totally stop the grain from peeking through.
3. Switch to a Satin Finish from a Semi-Gloss. Less sheen will help to mask the visible grain. Even now, the Satin Finish has great cleaning ability.
4. The doors should ideally be sprayed rather than brushed. Brush strokes are removed by the spraying. Find a good, dust-free location to spray the doors; the doors must be removed nevertheless for a professional job.
5. Though a third coat might be required, two coats should be adequate.
Use a Color in Contrast
Your oak kitchen cabinets can look more contemporary and fresh by using a contrasting color to add some brightness.
For a dramatic appearance, it can be as straightforward as black, or it can be as vibrant and lively as this Caribbean Teal. Follow my advice in step 1 for either choice.
This is a terrific method to add your personality to make your oak cabinets look modern, whether it’s a temporary fix until you can afford to redo your kitchen or it’s your long-term strategy.
Switch out the cabinet hardware
This works well after painting your oak kitchen cabinets. So that you are not restricted to the same configuration as you already have, the holes can be filled before painting.
The hardware on your cabinets reveals a lot about your personality. Sometimes it claims that you are stingy. Sometimes it says you’re creative. Sometimes it implies that you are sophisticated, which is a positive thing.
(Another positive) When it’s absent, you have to check fingernails to see whether chips from using them as tools have.
It’s an absurdly easy area to have a significant impact. Avoid skipping this step.
Consider a polished nickel or chrome finish for a contemporary appearance. When combined with contemporary lighting and an identical kitchen faucet, satin brass can also seem modern. Currently, black is also a popular finish.
Replacing the Island:
Replacing the kitchen island can advance your efforts to make oak kitchen cabinets look more contemporary when combined with some of the other options. Even if you decide not to paint all of the cabinets.
A waterfall solid surface top may make a simple, streamlined cabinet type look outstanding. Additionally, it presents an opportunity to add more seating and a larger work surface.
Alternate Doors:
If you want your oak kitchen cabinets to have a nice, sleek appearance and your current doors are not modern in style, you might want to think about replacing them. The most cost-effective and streamlined form of door is a flat slab style.
Decor and accessories with a minimalist aesthetic:
Keep the decor simple and uncluttered. Modern kitchens frequently have a simple design. Use a few carefully chosen modern-styled decorative pieces, such as art, pendant lighting, or bar stools with simple lines.
Shelves with open backs or glass inserts:
A more open and modern appearance can be achieved by replacing certain cabinet doors with open shelving. As an alternative, you may put glass inserts to select cabinet doors to display contemporary dishes and glassware.
Conclusion
A clean and coherent design is key to establishing a modern appearance. To create a well-rounded and modern kitchen, take into account the materials, finishes, and color scheme overall. Before settling on certain colors and materials, it’s a smart idea to speak with a designer or tour showrooms for ideas.
FAQs!!
1. Can my oak kitchen cabinets be updated without being painted?
Yes, oak cabinets can be updated without being painted. To achieve a more modern appearance, think about refinishing them with a trendy color or upgrading the hardware, countertops, and backsplash.
2. Is it possible to preserve my kitchen’s natural oak look and still make it look contemporary?
Yes, you can keep your kitchen’s natural oak look while giving it a contemporary feel. To go with the oak cabinets, pick contemporary hardware, a backsplash, a countertop, and lighting. The secret is to develop a well-balanced, modern look.
3. What modern hardware designs are appropriate for wood cabinets?
Smooth and minimalist designs like flat bar pulls, slender handles, or finger pulls are examples of contemporary hardware styles. Your cabinets will seem instantly more modern with these hardware alternatives.
4. Are there any inexpensive methods to update oak cabinets?
By concentrating on simple modifications like switching the hardware, putting a new backsplash, or painting or staining the cabinets yourself, you may update oak cabinets on a budget. These adjustments can have a big impact without costing a fortune.
5. What types of lighting are suitable for an updated oak kitchen?
Popular options for modern kitchens include elegant pendant lights, recessed lighting, and under-cabinet LED lighting. They offer convenience in addition to a modern look.
