10 Creative Refacing Kitchen Cabinets Ideas: Make Your Kitchen Feel Brand New Without a Full RenovationMarina L. ChenSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Replace Doors Only2. Go Two-Tone3. Add Glass Inserts4. Wrap with Veneer5. Add New Hardware6. Mix Open Shelving7. Add Crown Molding8. Change the Color Completely9. Use Decorative Panels10. Install Under-Cabinet LightingFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOnce, I had a client who insisted her entire kitchen needed demolishing because she was tired of the look. But after I showed her some clever refacing tricks, she saved thousands and ended up with a space even her friends thought was brand new. That’s the thing with small updates — especially in compact kitchens — they can spark huge creativity without tearing the whole place apart. In this post, I’ll share my 10 favorite refacing kitchen cabinets ideas, drawn from my own projects and a few happy accidents along the way. If you’re planning your own kitchen refresh, tools like room planner can help you visualize changes before you commit.1. Replace Doors OnlySwapping out just the cabinet doors can give your kitchen a totally different style. I’ve done this in rentals where the landlord didn’t want a major reno — smooth shaker doors made the place feel modern instantly. The trick is matching new doors to your current cabinet boxes so the fit is seamless.save pin2. Go Two-TonePainting upper cabinets one color and lower cabinets another can break up monotony and make your kitchen feel custom. I once painted the uppers pale gray and the lowers navy blue — clients still send me photos of how many compliments they get. Just remember that darker tones hide dirt better!save pin3. Add Glass InsertsReplacing solid panels with glass can lighten up the whole room. Frosted glass works well if you don’t want to display mismatched mugs. Clear glass gives an open vibe but needs organized shelving behind — a little more upkeep, but worth the airy look.save pin4. Wrap with VeneerWood veneer sheets can change the texture and color of your cabinets without replacing the structure. I’ve used walnut veneer over dated oak for a sleek, rich look. It takes patience to apply smoothly, but the results are designer-level for a fraction of the cost.save pin5. Add New HardwareSometimes all you need is fresh handles and knobs. Brass, matte black, or leather pulls can shift a cabinet's personality instantly. I often tell clients to splurge here — quality hardware feels amazing every time you touch it, and it elevates even basic doors.save pin6. Mix Open ShelvingRemove a few door fronts and use stained shelves for open storage. It gives breathing space in small kitchens and lets your prettiest dishes shine. You can experiment with the layout using tools like free floor plan creator to make sure the open sections don’t crowd the space.save pin7. Add Crown MoldingThis tiny detail can make stock cabinets look custom-made. It draws the eye upward, which is perfect for low-ceiling kitchens. The challenge is getting the miter cuts right — I’ve learned the hard way that measuring twice really is essential here.save pin8. Change the Color CompletelyA bold paint job can be transformative — think deep green, warm terracotta, or even matte black. The downside? Dark shades can make a small kitchen feel tighter, so balance them with light walls and good lighting. But the instant character boost makes the risk worth it.save pin9. Use Decorative PanelsAdding beadboard or shiplap to flat doors gives texture and charm. I once used beadboard in a beach house kitchen, and it tied the whole interior together. These panels are easy to paint and surprisingly durable.save pin10. Install Under-Cabinet LightingNot technically refacing, but it works wonders alongside cosmetic changes. Warm LED strips make new finishes pop and improve task lighting. You can preview the brightness and angles in 3D with tools like kitchen layout planner before installing.save pinFAQ1. What is the cheapest way to reface kitchen cabinets?Painting and changing the hardware are typically the most budget-friendly options. They can be done DIY with minimal tools.2. How long does cabinet refacing last?With quality materials and proper installation, refaced cabinets can last 10–15 years. Proper cleaning extends their lifespan.3. Is cabinet refacing worth it?Yes, especially if the cabinet boxes are in good shape. It costs far less than full replacement while delivering a similar visual impact.4. Can I reface cabinets myself?Yes, but it requires patience and accurate measurements. Veneer application and door replacement can be tricky for beginners.5. Does refacing improve home value?It can. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, minor kitchen remodels often recoup a high percentage of costs.6. What’s the difference between refacing and resurfacing cabinets?Refacing changes doors, drawer fronts, and veneers; resurfacing may refer more broadly to repainting or refinishing existing surfaces.7. Can I change cabinet layout when refacing?Minor layout tweaks are possible, but major changes may require new cabinets. Using a planning tool ensures good flow in your kitchen.8. What materials are best for refacing?High-quality MDF, plywood with veneer, and solid wood offer durability. For a modern look, thermofoil and laminate can also work well.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE