Replace Hardware: Switching out the knobs and handles on your cabinets is probably the easiest way to change the look of your kitchen. Take your current hardware to the store and look for a new style that’ll cover up the existing holes.

Add a Splash of Color: A can or two of paint can change the whole look of your kitchen in just a few hours. If your cabinets are so outdated that no amount of scrubbing will save them, consider painting them off-white for a clean, timeless look. Then remove any dated wallpaper, and paint your walls with a light, neutral color to make the space feel instantly bigger. Opt for moisture-resistant paint—semi-gloss works well for cabinets, and easy-to-clean eggshell is typically best for walls.

Modernize Your Counter top: Investing in a counter top that you love is one of the most noticeable changes that you can make to your kitchen. Kitchen counters become a major focal point as they are for meal prepping and serving guests. You can spring for granite or alternatively, simply re-coat your laminate counter top with paints specifically formulated for the task, including products that look strikingly similar to granite.

Make Your Floors Fabulous: Your floor is one of the biggest surface areas in your kitchen, so updating it will make a huge difference. Floating laminate floors are easy to install—even if you’re a DIY novice—and come in a wide variety of colors and styles. Peel-and-stick vinyl planks are another simple and surprisingly durable solution.

Update Your Appliances: Upgrading to stainless steel appliances can make your whole kitchen space feel modern. Home improvement stores have plenty of affordable stainless options, and I recommend replacing everything at once to take advantage of package deals.

Add a Back-splash: While many may want to invest in marble counter tops or a limestone range hood, you can also achieve the high-end look of natural stone or glass tiles with a back-splash behind the stove or sink. Because the area is relatively small, it’s far less expensive than tiling an entire floor or accent wall, but can still add a luxe feel to your kitchen.