Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Kaitlin Green

Modernizing dated oak cabinets doesn’t require replacing them.

Check out these affordable ways to modernize your oak kitchen cabinetry for inspiration.

Want more home reno project tips and inspiration?

how to make oak kitchen cabinets look more modern

Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Kaitlin Green

Repaint or Restain Them

Becca Interiors

Use paint or stain to give oak cabinets a new look.

Whether youpaint kitchen cabinetsor give them a new stain, the texture of the wood will still shine through.

What pop in of paint for kitchen cabinets?

CASA WATKINS LIVING

CASA WATKINS LIVING

The bestpaint for kitchen cabinetsis a semi-gloss or satin finish.

This will ensure that they are easy to wipe clean.

Reface Them

The Spruce / Alyssa Vela

Give old oak cabinets a total makeoverby refacing them.

kitchen sink window shelf

Becca Interiors

Whether you DIY it or hire a professional, you will save money compared to replacing cabinets.

Redo the Backsplash

Ashley Montgomery Design

Take the focus off cabinetry byinstalling a new backsplash.

Choose a dramatic stone slab with plenty of veining or a colorful patterned tile to create a focal point.

Front view of a small remodeled kitchen with shaker cabinets

The Spruce / Alyssa Vela

If you’re a renter on a budget,paint over the backsplashor tryremovable peel-and-stick tiles.

Replace the Appliances

Replace kitchen appliances to give your space an updated look.

A kitchen with white subway tile and white open and closed shelving

The Spruce / Candace Madonna

kitchen with wood cabinets and pink walls

The Gathered Home

A bespoke kitchen with ornate trim, a chandelier flanked by a decorative ceiling medallion, and a light blue statement range hood

Ashley Montgomery Design

Kitchen with oak cabinets, marble countertops and blue subway tile backsplash

Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Kaitlin Green

dark navy kitchen cabinets

Ursula Carmona ofHome Made By Carmona