Ready to take your rental kitchen from drab to fab? Learn how to make rental cabinets look better with 7 of the most budget-friendly, yet impressive ideas that won't upset your landlord!
Introducing a practical guide to revamping your rental cabinets! Very much needed, am I right?
If you've ever found yourself stuck with dull, uninspiring cabinets that make your space feel outdated, you're not alone! Many of us face the challenge of working with less-than-ideal storage solutions in rented homes!
But worry not! In this post, we'll explore simple yet effective techniques to transform your rental cabinets into stylish and functional features.
Say goodbye to that basic, cheap look and hello to a personalized touch that reflects your taste and elevates your space without breaking the bank or upsetting your landlord!
Let's unlock the potential of your rental cabinets and make your kitchen a place you'll LOVE coming home to!
HOW TO MAKE RENTAL CABINETS LOOK BETTER: 7 BEST IDEAS
01. Add removable wallpaper or contact paper
One of the easiest and most effective ways to give your kitchen cabinets a fresh and vibrant look is by adding removable wallpaper or contact paper! Removable wallpaper is a versatile option that allows you to experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures without the commitment of permanent changes, which is exactly what you need!
You can choose from a wide range of designs, from bold and geometric patterns to delicate floral motifs, to suit your personal style and complement your kitchen's aesthetic. You're sure to find THE one for your rental kitchen!
As for the installation process, it's insanely easy! To begin, clean the surface of your cabinets thoroughly and ensure they are dry! Measure and cut the wallpaper or contact paper to fit each cabinet door and drawer front, leaving a slight overlap for trimming.
Carefully apply the adhesive side of the wallpaper or contact paper to the surface, smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go. This step is KEY for an elegant finish! Trim any excess material using a sharp knife or scissors for a clean and professional finish, and ta-da, there you have a new set of cabinets!
Removable wallpaper or contact paper is not only an excellent way to add visual interest to your cabinets but also serves a practical purpose. That's why SO many apartment dwellers (including me!) are OBSESSED with it!
It protects the cabinet surfaces from scratches and stains, making them easier to clean and maintain. Additionally, it can be easily removed and replaced whenever you want to update the look of your kitchen or if you're renting and need to revert the cabinets to their original state.
| Copy the look:
02. Switch out the hardware
Updating the hardware on your kitchen cabinets is a simple yet impactful way to transform their appearance! It really IS one of the best ideas on how to make rental cabinets look better that I try to keep secret!
The knobs, handles, and pulls on your cabinets not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. So by replacing old and worn-out hardware with new, stylish options, you can give your cabinets a fresh and modern look without breaking the bank or upsetting your landlord!
When choosing new hardware, consider the style and design of your kitchen. For a sleek and contemporary look, opt for hardware with clean lines and a minimalist design! If your kitchen has a more traditional or rustic feel, consider hardware with intricate details and a vintage finish. The material of the hardware is also essential - stainless steel, brushed nickel, and brass are popular choices that offer durability and timeless appeal.
To replace the hardware, start by removing the existing knobs or handles. Use a screwdriver to unscrew them from the back of the cabinet doors and drawers. Take note of the screw size and spacing, as this will help you find new hardware that fits perfectly! And this is a KEY step!!
Once the old hardware is removed, position the new knobs or handles with the EXACT same dimensions as your previous hardware in the already existing holes and tighten the screws! Make sure they are aligned and level for a polished and professional finish.
| Copy the look:
03. Install lights underneath
To create an inviting ambiance and highlight the beauty of your kitchen cabinets, consider installing lights underneath them! This simple addition can transform your kitchen into a warm and welcoming space while providing practical illumination for your countertops and workspace.
LED strip lights are an excellent choice for under-cabinet lighting, I strongly advise you to prioritize them!
Not only are they energy-efficient, but they also come in various colors and brightness levels to suit your preferences. Additionally, LED lights have a long lifespan, making them a durable and cost-effective option! Talk about elevating those boring cabinets without breaking the bank!!
To install the lights, start by measuring the length of your cabinets where you want to place the lighting. Cut the LED strip lights to fit the measurements, following the manufacturer's instructions. Clean the area thoroughly and ensure it is dry before applying the adhesive side of the lights to the underside of the cabinets. Press firmly to ensure a secure attachment.
And there you have your new stunning kitchen cabinets!
| Copy the look:
04. Open up a few cabinets
An increasingly popular trend in kitchen design is the concept of open shelving or glass-front cabinets. And honestly, I get what's all that hype about, they're SO stunning!
This style not only adds a touch of elegance but also creates a sense of openness and visual interest in your kitchen. By opening up a few cabinets or replacing the doors with glass panels, you can showcase your favorite dishes, glassware, or decorative items while adding a unique charm to your space!
Before deciding which cabinets to open or convert to glass-front, consider the contents and organization of your kitchen. Choose cabinets that house items you want to display and those that are neatly organized and visually appealing.
Removing the doors or installing glass panels on these cabinets will allow you to create a curated display that reflects your personal style, so make sure none of the items are just thrown in there!
So get to work right now & take off those cabinet doors using a screwdriwer! Handle the doors with caution, don't scratch them! Find them a secure spot & store them there until you move out! When it's time, put the doors back on the cabinets.
And that's exactly how you open up your cabinets without upsetting your landlord with a permanent, unreversible & damaging project!
05. Use cabinet liners
One of the most underrated, but quite impressive ideas on how to make rental cabinets look better is to use cabinet liners!
Cabinet liners are not only functional but also a great way to add style and personality to your kitchen cabinets! Did you know that?
These liners come in various patterns, colors, and materials, allowing you to choose something that complements your kitchen's decor and enhances its overall aesthetics!
To begin, clean the surfaces of your cabinets thoroughly and ensure they are dry. Measure each cabinet shelf and drawer carefully to determine the dimensions of the liner needed. Cut the liner to size, leaving a slight overlap for a precise fit.
When selecting cabinet liners, consider the material that best suits your needs! This is super important! As they say, not only looks matter, personalized functionality is also important!
Non-adhesive liners are easy to install and remove, making them ideal for rental properties or if you prefer to change the design frequently. Adhesive liners provide a more secure fit and are excellent for heavy-duty use or if you want a long-term solution.
Once you have cut the liners to size, apply them to the cabinet shelves and drawers. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles, starting from the center and working your way to the edges. Ensure the liners are flat and properly aligned for a neat and tidy appearance.
How easy is that?
| Copy the look:
06. Create an eye-catching display
Transform your kitchen cabinets into a visual focal point by creating an eye-catching display! Of course, this requires you to have either floating shelves or a nice open shelving unit!
This allows you to showcase your favorite items and add a personal touch to your kitchen's decor, and these possibilities are basically non-existent in rentals, so take them!!
Whether you want to display your collection of colorful plates, stylish glassware, or decorative objects, curating a captivating display can elevate the overall aesthetic of your cabinets.
Start by selecting the items you want to showcase. Consider the size, shape, and color of the items to create a visually appealing arrangement. Group items of similar colors or styles together to create a cohesive look. Experiment with different heights, angles, and placements to add depth and visual interest to the display!
However, you MUST avoid overcrowding the shelves at all costs! This is to maintain a clean and organized appearance. Allow some breathing room between items for each piece to stand out.
To enhance the display further, consider incorporating additional elements such as decorative trays, small potted plants, or artwork. These can add layers and textures to the arrangement, making it more visually appealing.
Of course, make sure you periodically change the display to keep it fresh and interesting!
| Copy the look:
07. Make the inside look funky
Another creative way to update your kitchen cabinets is by adding a touch of personality to the back of the cabinets. Maximalists will find this idea on how to make rental cabinets look better super useful!!
Wrapping the back panel with a funky contact paper or wallpaper can instantly transform the look of your cabinets and add an unexpected pop of color and pattern.
Whether you keep those doors on or take them out to let the wallpaper REALLY shine, this is always a good idea!
Why? Because this technique allows you to infuse your personal style into the kitchen design while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. And since it's easily reversible, you won't lose your security deposit during the process either!
Choose a vibrant and eye-catching contact paper or wallpaper that complements the overall color scheme and theme of your kitchen.
Whether you opt for a bold geometric print, a playful floral pattern, or a captivating abstract design, this small but impactful detail can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen cabinets.
It's a fun and easy DIY project that can breathe new life into your space and showcase your creativity that keeps the property damage free! Definitely worth a try!!
| Copy the look:
This post was all about the best ideas on how to make rental cabinets look better.
