Update Oak Kitchen Cabinets: Modern Look, No Paint Needed

Oak cabinets can be modernised without paint by adding glass to feature cabinet doors, updating the backsplash, adding crown moulding and a valance, filling in the bulkhead, adding open shelving, and updating the hardware.

Change the hardware to brass, bronze, copper, or matte black

Changing the hardware on your oak kitchen cabinets is a great way to modernise them without paint. Brass, bronze, copper, or matte black are all excellent choices for hardware finishes that will complement oak cabinets.

Brass, bronze, and copper are warm metals that will add a rich pop of colour and texture when placed against the warm tones of oak. These metals will look particularly stunning if your oak cabinets have a reddish hue. If you are looking for a more subtle approach, brass is a versatile option that can add a timeless touch to your oak cabinets.

On the other hand, matte black hardware will create a bold contrast with the warm oak. This combination can give your kitchen a modern and sleek look. If you want to incorporate other metals into your kitchen design, consider choosing a dominant metal and then selecting one or two accent metals to create a cohesive look. For example, you could pair matte black hardware with stainless steel appliances and light fixtures for a stylish and contemporary feel.

When updating your oak kitchen cabinets, it is essential to consider the surrounding finishes and your overall design aesthetic. By mixing and matching different metals, you can add visual interest, depth, and texture to your space. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your hardware choices!

Add glass to cabinet doors

Adding glass to cabinet doors is a great way to modernise your oak kitchen cabinets without paint. It relieves the visual weight of the wood and adds reflective value to your kitchen, especially if you have a dark kitchen and tidy cupboards.

To do this, you can hire a cabinet company, or you can do it yourself with a bottle of wine and a saw. You will need to remove the centre panel from the cabinet door and secure a piece of glass inside the frame. You can order glass panels from most home improvement stores and glass shops, selecting between clear, frosted, seeded, or ribbed glass. Many stores will also cut the glass to your desired size for free or a small fee.

Step 1: Remove the cabinet's panel

Unscrew the door from the cabinet box and remove all hardware. Use a router to cut out the door's centre panel. Using a wood chisel, carve out the rounded corners left by the router, so right angles remain.

Step 2: Sand and paint the frame

Clamp the frame to your work surface and sand the entire surface. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth. Clean the frame with a trisodium phosphate (TSP) solution to remove any remaining residue. Apply a stain-blocking primer, then coat with semigloss latex paint in your colour of choice.

Step 3: Install the glass panel

Measure the frame's opening and add an extra half-inch all around. Order a glass panel cut to these measurements from a glass shop, and ensure the edges of the glass are smoothed. Set the piece of glass into the back of the frame.

Step 4: Secure the glass and re-install

Secure the glass in the frame using glass clips. If the glass shifts in the frame, apply small beads of clear silicone adhesive along the perimeter of the frame to hold the glass in place. Wipe away any silicone from the face of the glass. Re-attach cabinet hardware and fasten the door to the cabinet frame.

Add a backsplash

Adding a backsplash is a great way to modernise oak kitchen cabinets without painting them. Even if you have a basic tile backsplash, you can easily paint over it or cover it with beadboard for a fresh, clean look that won't break the bank.

If you don't have a backsplash, consider adding one. The most popular and timeless choice is subway tile with either white grout or grout that coordinates with your wall colour or countertop. Subway tile works well with a neutral countertop. If you're updating your countertop as well, consider pairing it with the backsplash. For instance, a modern marble tile backsplash with white quartz countertops.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly update, consider travertine. While it's not a hot finish for backsplashes, it's a great option if you're on a budget. You could also opt for polished nickel hardware, which is a simple complement to the warm wood tones of oak cabinets.

If you're looking for a more on-trend option, consider a cream subway tile backsplash with warm white walls. You could also paint the pantry door a darker accent colour, add interesting decor like branches or leaves in a large vase, or consider pendant lights with fabric or solid white shades for softer lighting.

Whatever option you choose, adding a backsplash is a great way to modernise oak kitchen cabinets without painting them.

Change the wall colour to a cool, light neutral

Changing the wall colour to a cool, light neutral is a great way to modernise oak kitchen cabinets without painting them.

Firstly, it is important to choose the right colour. Colours with warm undertones like cream, beige, and warm greens will minimise the orange in the oak. Cool colours such as grey, blue, or purple will make the orange stand out.

For a cool, light neutral, opt for a soft, creamy white. This will instantly make the room feel larger, lighter, and more airy and open. Fresh paint is a quick and easy weekend update that will make everything feel clean and fresh.

To make the space feel even bigger and brighter, paint the trim white, no matter what your wall colour. If you want to make a bolder statement, you could even paint the walls and trim the same colour.

If you are set on a cool, light neutral, it is important to be aware of the effect this will have on the orange tones of the oak. Cool colours will make the orange stand out, so be sure this is the effect you are going for.

If you want to tone down the warmth of the oak, outfit the rest of the kitchen in cool, refreshing tones such as blues or greens. You could also add cool grey walls and blue accessories.

If you are looking to make a bigger change, you could try pairing oak cabinets with light tones in other areas of the kitchen. Use white or light-coloured walls, flooring, and countertops to detract from the heavy look of oak cabinets. Shiny surfaces, including glass tile and stainless-steel appliances, can also reflect light and give the room a visual lift.

If you are not ready to commit to a full repaint, you could start by removing wallpaper and ivy and painting with an eggshell sheen paint to reflect light.

Add open shelving

Open shelving is a common design feature in modern-style kitchens. While you don't want to remove all of your upper cabinets, consider removing a section of them and replacing them with oak wood open shelving. This will help create a contemporary or modern feel in an older space, allowing you to showcase the beauty of your favourite dinnerware and serving dishes.

• Choose the right location: Select an area of your kitchen where open shelving will have the most impact. Consider removing a few upper cabinets near the kitchen sink or an open dining area to create a stylish and functional display.
• Match the shelving material: To maintain a cohesive look, choose open shelving made from the same type of oak wood as your cabinets. This will create a seamless and integrated appearance.
• Style your shelves: Use your open shelving to display your eclectic collection of beautiful bowls, glasses, or other decorative items. Ensure the items are well-organised and coordinated for a stylish and personalised touch.
• Mix wood tones: If you want to detract attention from your oak cabinets, consider mixing wood tones by adding open shelving in a drastically different wood finish. This will create a visually appealing contrast and make your oak cabinets less prominent.
• Combine with glass-front cabinetry: For an on-trend look, combine your open shelving with glass-front cabinets. This will add a touch of elegance and allow you to showcase your favourite items while keeping others neatly tucked away.
• Keep it neat: Open shelving requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Ensure you tidy and organise your shelves regularly, removing any clutter or items that don't fit with your aesthetic.

Frequently asked questions