There are some solid reasons why oak cabinets are a classic choice for many homeowners for their kitchens. They offer a warmth rarely found in other cabinets. They are durable and naturally beautiful. Simply speaking, they are hard to resist.

Yet, people may find them outdated or stuck in oblivion while trying to create a modern-looking kitchen space. Fret not, because there are several ways to make your kitchen look freshly contemporary and suave with an oak kitchen cabinet. Here, we discuss seven ways to do so.

1. Update the Hardware & Countertops

When modernizing your kitchen space with oak cabinets, updating the hardware is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to get a modern and sleek look. Swap the old-fashioned knobs and handles for something contemporary and stylish. Your cabinets can get a new and fresh look with hardware having chrome or brass finishes. It can also give a fresh perspective to the overall functionality of the cabinetry.

Alongside upgrading the hardware, your cabinet can do with a new countertop if it has already worn out. Consider quartz, granite, or solid surface options in a neutral hue complementing the naturally warm color schemes of oak. While upgrading the countertop you may avoid contrasting colors since this can backfire and you might not achieve the look you want for your kitchen.

1. Embrace Open Shelving & Kitchen Islands

Open shelving is a modern design trend that helps in breaking the look and mold of old-fashioned kitchen areas. While modernizing your kitchen space consider removing the doors of the cabinets and replacing them with open shelves.

It serves as a showcase mantle where you can display your favorite kitchen wares and stylish utensils. It can create a visual appeal, making the kitchen area look more open and spacious.

On the other hand, when you add a kitchen island, you add style and functionality to the entire space. You may install a modern, sleek island-style cabinet right at the center of the kitchen that will complement your oak kitchen cabinet. Here, you may incorporate a contrasting color theme for creating a visual appeal that makes the island a focal point.

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   Blend With Modern Accessories & Appliances

Your kitchen appliances tell a great deal about the characteristics of the space and the house. As such, they can make people form an instant opinion about your lifestyle, thoughts, and outlook.

Updating your kitchen space by adding modern accessories and appliances will make your kitchen area uber cool and contemporary. Replacing your old kitchen appliances with modern and energy-efficient ones can uplift the kitchen’s demeanor and spirit.

Look for stainless steel finishes that will complement the warm tones of oak cabinets and create a cohesive look. For instance, sleek and minimalist accessories like a stainless steel tea kettle or a set of copper mixing bowls are the current fads in vogue. You could also add a modern piece of art or sleek artifacts to get an aesthetic taste.

1. Add a Backsplash & Upgrade the Sink

Adding a contemporary style backsplash with stylish pattern tiles alongside the oak kitchen cabinets can add color and texture to the kitchen area. Adding subway backsplash tiling in a neutral color, or a bold patterned tile to create a focal point.

Similarly, upgrade the sink and faucet in your kitchen to modernize the space and give it some practical functionality. Consider smooth modern sinks and faucets in a sleek finish that will complement the warm tones of your oak cabinetry. Alternatively, you may also look for a deep, farmhouse sink or a modern and minimalist design.

1. Install a New Flooring

Upgrading your kitchen flooring can have a massive impact on its overall appearance and feel. With intelligent flooring designs, it can also make the kitchen feel and look spacious.

Contemporary hardwood flooring, for instance, complements the oak kitchen cabinets in your kitchen very well. It creates a cohesive and synchronous appearance that welcomes people with every step they take on the kitchen floor.

1. Create a Modern Color Scheme and Accent Walls

Contemporary color schemes in your kitchen can update the space, giving it a fresh and welcoming warmth. Pair your warm oak cabinets with neutral hues and cooler tones like gray, white, or turquoise blue. You may add a pop of warm colors, like bright amber or emerald green for an appealing visual attraction.

Similarly, an accent wall in your kitchen can add the visual interest that you are looking for. Painting one wall of the kitchen space with bold hues or applying a two-toned or stylish patterned wallpaper can create a point of focus in your kitchen. You can also synchronize the accent walls with a modern tile backsplash extending up to the ceiling if you want a more dramatic look.

1. Integrate New Treatments for Windows & Lighting

Another interesting way to modernize your kitchen space is to integrate new treatments for your kitchen’s windows. Interestingly, when you update kitchen window treatments, it softens the look of oak cabinetry and creates a more contemporary feel.

You can achieve this through neutral-colored shades or blinds, which will complement the warm tones of your cabinets. You could also add some interesting pop of colors or patterns here.

The window treatments should be synchronized with the available natural and artificial lighting. Correct lighting can create the perfect ambiance in the kitchen. Carefully designed lighting taking into consideration its source and type can uplift the entire mood in the kitchen space.

Installing under-cabinet lighting will highlight your oak cabinets and showcase their intricate features. Similarly, pendant lights above the kitchen island will create a subtle elegance in the whole area.

Wrap Up

Modernizing your kitchen with oak cabinets can be fun and interesting. The only thing you need is a little imagination, some patience, and research. You may find that your oak kitchen cabinet shines in your kitchen with splendor and beauty while your visitors get spellbound by your kitchen’s modern makeover.