How to make a cheap kitchen countertop more expensive

Sometimes tearing out a kitchen and replacing it with something new is simply not possible. Perhaps you’ve just moved or simply don’t have the time or funds right now – but instead, why not look for ways to improve what you already have?

There are many ways to give your scheme an elevated look without requiring an expensive overhaul. And if you want cheap kitchen countertops to look more expensive, you’ve come to the right place.

We asked interior designers how they would achieve a dated, dated or cheap look kitchen countertop a more luxurious look – and their ideas offer a solution for every space, style and budget.

How to make a cheap kitchen countertop more expensive

Replacing your kitchen countertops with new ones is not always an easy decision, but you can use elements that give them a more expensive look. From backsplashes to decor, these methods are designer-approved.

1. Pair them with a statement backsplash

Neutral kitchen with herringbone tile backsplash paired with light marble countertops.

(Image credit: Fireclay Tile/Anita Yokota/Sara Ligorria-Vagabond)

When it comes to kitchen countertops, the backsplash you pair it with is very important to the overall look. So, if you want to make a cheap kitchen countertop look more expensive, focus on creating a beautiful backsplash to match it.

“If you have countertops that you would like to draw attention away from, adding a tile backsplash can enhance the overall design of your kitchen. This not only elevates the space, but also creates a cohesive and more sophisticated, high-end look,” says Kali Gibson, designer. Fireclay tiles.

There are several different approaches you can take here. This kitchen was all about the combination of countertop and tile shades. “Pay attention to the color tones of your countertop (such as warm or cool tones). Choose tiles with a similar shade to maintain harmony,” suggests Kali.

However, you can also focus on textures instead or choose kitchen apron tiles that distract from your countertop altogether. “Making tile the focal point through a dynamic design or a pop of color is a great way to naturally draw attention and direct visual interest.”

2. Paint your cabinets a complementary color.

White and Green Two Tone Kitchen Cabinets

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

The key to making your kitchen countertops look elevated is to surround them with complementary textures, materials and colors. And yours kitchen cabinets are a great place to focus your attention.

“To quickly and effectively update your kitchen while maintaining your existing countertops, start by painting your cabinets in a color that complements the countertops and gives it a cohesive look,” says Sarah Cruz, the company’s owner and chief designer. Story designs.

This doesn’t mean you need to repaint every cabinet in your kitchen—consider simply painting the lower cabinets that connect to the countertop to minimize work and create two-tone kitchen scheme.

In this kitchen black kitchen countertops could easily look stark in an all-white scheme, but introducing this rich green hue to the bottom of the cabinets gave the design more visual interest and made the dark counters feel softer and more cohesive.

3. Install in a decorative sink.

dark green kitchen with marble countertops and backsplash, white fluted sink, brass fittings, marble shelf with flowers, glassware, artwork.

(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)

If you want to draw attention away from the tabletop, add a large decorative kitchen sink this is a great way to improve your overall look. This will instantly add a touch of luxury to the space without having to make any expensive changes.

In this kitchen, the fluted front sink is a decorative element that attracts attention. A design like this will instantly make a cheap kitchen countertop look more expensive, especially if you add a nice brass faucet.

4. Decorate your tabletop with elegant decor.

Marble kitchen with wooden tray used to decorate the countertop.

(Image credit: McGee & Co)

If you want to keep things really simple, you can make your countertops look more expensive by decorating them with stylish and elegant pieces. you could turn kitchen utensils into decor here, or stick with intentional decor that is purely aesthetic.

“Simple accents like marble trays can add elegance without the expense—use them to organize oils, candles, or decor. These small updates are both affordable and transformative,” says Sarah.

Choose a tray design that complements the color and texture of your countertop. If a marble tray is in the way, a wooden option is better. Or metal trays will add elegance to your kitchen.

Tray 512 from Anastasio Home

The Met x Anthropologie Mirrored Metal Tray

5. Surround your kitchen countertops with a moody hue.

kitchen countertop trends, dark red kitchen cabinets with black granite countertop, open shelf, brass hanging rod, brass drawer pulls, wine bottle storage, artwork

(Image credit: deVOL)

If you’re trying to enhance a dark countertop, sometimes the best approach is to lean toward it. moody color palette. Black countertops can seem quite harsh and harsh against lighter colors, but using deeper colors can seem much more intentional.

This kitchen is a perfect example of that. To counteract and distract from the darkness of the countertops, a deep burgundy shade was used on the lower cabinets, backsplash and shelf.

The remaining walls have been preserved. warm neutral paint color so that the kitchen still feels bright and open, but you’re no longer focusing on the kitchen cabinets—instead, you’re simply admiring the on-trend design.

Sometimes improving your existing countertops is simply a matter of pairing them with the right colors, textures and decor. So, whether you’re using paint to create a distraction, adding a touch of luxury with a backsplash, or simply adding sophisticated decor, there are suggestions here for every style and budget.