• Painting your countertop is the most cost-effective way to give it a new look.
• You can also change the things around your countertops, like backsplashes and finishes, to give it a new look.
• Adding new decor to your countertop is also a simple way to take it from drab to fab.

Updating an kitchen countertop can breathe new life into your kitchen, and and it doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming process. Instead of completely replacing your countertops, which is expensive, messy, and difficult, you can refresh the look with simple upgrades.

From painting to adding decor, we share a few ways you can transform your kitchen countertop to make it more visually-appealing and functional.

Paint the Countertop

A budget-friendly way to completely revamp your countertop is by painting it. With the right paint and technique, you can refresh your countertop and your entire kitchen, and it’s much more cost-effective and hassle-free than replacing it with a new one.

Epoxy paint is a great paint option because of its durability and high-gloss finish, and you can choose virtually any color to match the rest of your kitchen.

Before you paint, clean and lightly sand the surface so the paint adheres well and more evenly. Go with a solid color or have some fun with stenciled patterns and designs.

Note: Non-porous materials like granite, marble, quartz, and solid-surface countertops aren’t ideal since paint doesn’t adhere to them well.

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Add New Decor

Adding new decor to your kitchen is a simple concept that can make a big impact.

“When done right, decor can be both beautiful and functional,” interior designer Ellie Mroz says. “Large bowls for holding fruits and vegetables and a tasteful vase repurposed as a utensil holder add charm and function.”

She also suggests using a large tray or vintage-inspired riser to host candles, veggies or fruits, stacked cookbooks, or a combination of all to create beauty and purpose.

Polish the Countertop

Polishing can go a long way and is an easy and quick update. If you have a granite or marble countertop, polishing it can restore its original shine and beauty. Polishing can also smooth out any minor scratches, helping it look new again.

Plus, a good polish prevents buildup of grime and everyday wear, so it’s easier to clean and maintain. You can DIY with a polishing kit or hire professionals to do the job.

Either way, regularly polishing your countertops will help keep your kitchen looking well-maintained and refreshed.

Update the Backsplash

A new backsplash can dramatically change the look of your kitchen, and it helps enhance the look of your existing countertop. Since it’s often at eye level and covers a big part of your kitchen’s wall, it is a great focal point that can completely fresh your kitchen at a fairly low cost—especially if you DIY it.

“A backsplash with tile and grout that complements the cabinet paint and material is a sure way to elevate and update a kitchen—without having to redo the entire countertop,” the Kate Marker Design Team says.

Choose tiles that match or contrast with your countertop and cabinets to create a designer look. Subway tiles, mosaic patterns, and even peel-and-stick options can add texture and color to your kitchen.

Incorporate Greenery and Vases

Adding fresh greenery in vases can bring life to a small or large kitchen. Herbs not only add a refreshing look but are also practical to have on hand while cooking. Other plants, like succulents and flowers, can help brighten up the space.

“A contemporary vase with flowers or a little plant just makes everything feel better,” the Kate Marker Design Team says. “Fresh or faux – it doesn’t matter. It adds life to your kitchen counter and creates more dimension.”

Consider placing small potted plants, succulents, or fresh flowers in stylish vases to help brighten up the space. This simple addition can make your kitchen feel more lively and welcoming.

Replace Cabinet Hardware

Sometimes your kitchen’s other fixtures can help elevate the look of your countertop and can have a big impact on the overall kitchen design.

“Brass hardware fixtures are a beautiful, timeless choice that only get better with age,” The Kate Marker Design Team says.

Swap out old knobs and handles for brass ones to add a sophisticated, elegant touch. Brass fixtures complement a variety of countertop materials and colors, making them a versatile choice for any style kitchen.