What Makes a Kitchen Look Expensive? in 2024

Creating a luxurious kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. Understanding what makes a kitchen look expensive can transform your space into a high-end haven without a full-scale renovation.

At Craft Kitchen & Bath in Naperville, we know how crucial it is for homeowners to feel proud of their kitchens. The secret lies in a few strategic upgrades and design choices that elevate the overall aesthetic.

Firstly, upgrading your cabinet hardware can make a significant impact. Sleek, modern handles and knobs instantly give your cabinets a fresh, stylish look. Incorporating bold colors into your kitchen design is another way to create a luxurious feel.

Whether it’s painting your cabinets a deep navy or adding a vibrant backsplash, bold colors can make your kitchen stand out. Enhancing the lighting in your kitchen is also essential.

Adequate lighting not only makes the space more functional but also highlights your design choices. Consider adding pendant lights over an island or under-cabinet lighting for a more refined look.

Adding natural elements such as stone countertops or wooden accents can also make your kitchen look more expensive. Natural materials bring a timeless quality to your kitchen, making it feel more sophisticated.

Lastly, focusing on finishing touches like decorative molding, high-quality dishtowels, and well-chosen artwork can make all the difference. These details tie the whole room together, giving it a polished, cohesive look.

At Craft Kitchen & Bath, we specialize in helping Naperville homeowners achieve their dream kitchens.

By focusing on these key elements, you can create a kitchen that not only looks expensive but also feels uniquely yours.

Visit us to see how we can help transform your kitchen into a space that combines functionality with high-end design.

 

1. Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware 

Upgrading your cabinet hardware is one of the easiest ways to make your kitchen look more expensive. Why settle for outdated handles and knobs when a quick swap can bring a fresh, modern feel to your space?

Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by sleek, stylish handles that complement your cabinets perfectly. Whether you prefer a classic look with brushed nickel or a more contemporary style with matte black, new hardware can significantly elevate the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. It’s a small change that delivers big results, making your kitchen feel more polished and put-together.

Have you ever wondered why some kitchens just feel more luxurious than others? Often, it’s the little details that make the biggest difference. High-quality cabinet hardware not only looks better but also functions more smoothly.

Think about the daily wear and tear on your kitchen cabinets. By choosing durable, well-made hardware, you’re ensuring that your kitchen maintains its elegant appearance for years to come.

Plus, there are so many styles and finishes to choose from, you can easily find something that matches your personal taste and existing decor.

At Craft Kitchen & Bath in Naperville, we understand the importance of these finishing touches. We offer a wide range of cabinet hardware options to suit any style and budget.

From sleek, modern designs to more traditional options, our selection ensures you’ll find the perfect hardware to enhance your kitchen. Upgrading your cabinet hardware is a cost-effective way to add a touch of luxury to your kitchen, making it look and feel more expensive without the need for a complete overhaul.

What Makes a Kitchen Look Expensive?  / Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware

What Makes a Kitchen Look Expensive? / Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware

2. Incorporate Bold Colors

Incorporating bold colors into your kitchen design can instantly make the space look more expensive. Have you ever noticed how a splash of color can transform a room? The same applies to kitchens. Bold colors, whether on your cabinets, walls, or even the backsplash, create a striking visual impact. Imagine walking into a kitchen with deep navy cabinets or a vibrant emerald green island – it immediately feels more luxurious and stylish. At Craft Kitchen & Bath in Naperville, we encourage homeowners to experiment with color to bring their kitchens to life.

Why stick with the traditional neutrals when bold colors can make your kitchen truly stand out? Bold colors can highlight specific areas of your kitchen, making them focal points.

For example, a bold backsplash can draw attention to your cooking area, while brightly colored lower cabinets can add depth and contrast. The key is to balance these bold elements with neutral tones to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.

Consider pairing a bright color with white or gray to keep the look cohesive and elegant.

Choosing the right bold color can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Start small if you’re unsure – perhaps with an accent wall or a few colorful accessories. As you grow more confident, you can expand to larger areas like cabinets or islands.

At Craft Kitchen & Bath, we offer color consultation services to help you select hues that complement your overall design and personal style. Bold colors are a fantastic way to express your personality and make your kitchen a unique reflection of your taste.

Visit our Naperville showroom to explore our color options and get inspired to make a bold statement in your kitchen.

What Makes a Kitchen Look Expensive? / Incorporate Bold Colors

What Makes a Kitchen Look Expensive? / Incorporate Bold Colors

 

4. Enhance Lighting

Enhancing the lighting in your kitchen is a powerful way to make it look more expensive. Have you noticed how well-lit kitchens always feel more inviting and luxurious?

Good lighting can highlight your kitchen’s best features and make the space more functional. Start with your overhead lighting. Consider adding pendant lights over your island or dining area.

These not only provide focused light for tasks but also serve as stylish design elements. At Craft Kitchen & Bath in Naperville, we recommend using dimmable lights so you can adjust the brightness according to your needs and set the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

Task lighting is another crucial aspect. Proper lighting under cabinets can illuminate your countertops, making meal prep safer and easier. Have you ever struggled to chop vegetables in a dimly lit kitchen?

Under-cabinet lighting solves this problem while adding a sophisticated glow to your workspace. You can choose from LED strips, puck lights, or even modern, sleek designs that blend seamlessly with your cabinets. These lights not only brighten your kitchen but also create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Finally, don’t overlook the importance of natural light. If your kitchen has windows, make sure they are not obstructed by heavy curtains or blinds. Natural light makes your kitchen feel open and airy, enhancing the overall sense of luxury.

Consider using light-colored, sheer window treatments to allow maximum daylight in while maintaining privacy. At Craft Kitchen & Bath, we believe that combining natural and artificial lighting effectively can transform your kitchen into a bright, welcoming space that looks and feels expensive.

Visit our Naperville showroom to explore our lighting options and get expert advice on creating a well-lit, elegant kitchen.

/4. Enhance Lighting

What Makes a Kitchen Look Expensive? /4. Enhance Lighting

 

5. Add Natural Elements

Adding natural elements to your kitchen can significantly enhance its aesthetic, making it look more expensive and inviting. Natural materials like wood, stone, and plants introduce warmth and texture that synthetic materials often lack.

Have you ever admired the rustic charm of a wooden countertop or the timeless elegance of a marble backsplash? These elements not only look beautiful but also bring a sense of authenticity and quality to your kitchen.

At Craft Kitchen & Bath in Naperville, we love incorporating natural elements to create a high-end look that feels cozy and welcoming. Wooden accents are a fantastic way to bring natural elements into your kitchen. Consider adding wooden bar stools, cutting boards, or even open shelving made from reclaimed wood.

These touches can make your kitchen feel more grounded and connected to nature. Wooden countertops or butcher blocks are also excellent options that combine functionality with beauty.  The natural grain and texture of wood add visual interest and can serve as a focal point in your kitchen design.

Plants are another easy and affordable way to introduce natural elements. Whether it’s a potted herb garden on your windowsill or a statement fiddle leaf fig in the corner, greenery can breathe life into your kitchen.

Plants not only enhance the aesthetic but also improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere. At Craft Kitchen & Bath, we recommend using a mix of real and high-quality artificial plants to maintain a fresh look with minimal upkeep.

Lastly, incorporating stone elements like granite or marble countertops, stone backsplashes, or even decorative stone bowls can elevate the look of your kitchen. These materials are durable and timeless, adding a luxurious feel to your space. Natural stone has unique patterns and textures, ensuring that your kitchen will have a one-of-a-kind look.

Visit our Naperville showroom to explore our selection of natural materials and discover how they can transform your kitchen into a luxurious, inviting space.

5. Add Natural Elements

What Makes a Kitchen Look Expensive? / 5. Add Natural Elements

6. Focus on Finishing Touches

Focusing on the finishing touches can truly elevate your kitchen, making it look polished and expensive. Have you ever wondered why some kitchens have that magazine-ready look? Often, it’s the small details that tie everything together. Start by considering the hardware on your cabinets and drawers. High-quality handles and knobs can make a big difference. Opt for materials like brushed nickel, brass, or matte black to add a touch of elegance. Even replacing old, worn-out hardware with something fresh and modern can transform the entire look of your kitchen.

Next, think about adding decorative elements that reflect your personal style. This could include stylish window treatments, such as Roman shades or elegant drapes, which add a layer of sophistication. Don’t forget about your kitchen textiles – invest in high-quality dish towels, rugs, and potholders that coordinate with your color scheme. These small touches can make your kitchen feel more cohesive and thoughtfully designed. At Craft Kitchen & Bath in Naperville, we believe that every detail counts, and we offer a variety of accessories to help you achieve that perfect look.

Finally, consider incorporating art and other decorative items. A well-chosen piece of artwork or a stylish clock can serve as a focal point and conversation starter. Decorative bowls, vases, and even small sculptures can add personality and charm to your kitchen. Plants, both real and artificial, can bring life and a pop of color to your space. By carefully selecting these finishing touches, you can create a kitchen that looks custom-designed and luxurious. Visit our Naperville showroom to explore a wide range of finishing touches that can help you complete your kitchen makeover.