Easy DIY: Updates to Old (Ugly!) Appliances

I've been house-hunting this summer and have been really surprised by how many outdated kitchens are out there. Perhaps with the economy, sellers don't have the funds to update their home prior to selling, and as a result, I've seen more retro/vintage kitchens than Julia Child herself.

Replacing kitchen appliances are pricey, and in a few homes we've looked at, are the least of our worries when the home already needs a new roof, air conditioner and flooring. So how can I update a kitchen when the refrigerator/stove unit is older than I am?

Here are a few fun, inexpensive ideas:

FOR THE DISHWASHER
Real estate stager Terry Haugen spray-painted an old dishwasher to stage a home, but I think the look would work for any home. I love how realistic the transformation looks with some black spray paint and stainless contact paper. I think the idea would be just as fun with a colorful pattern in a modern kitchen.

Read more bright ideas after the jump.



Remove the old dishwasher and cover the area with a grommet fabric for extra storage. After all, washing dishes by hand can be so much better for the environment! FOR THE REFRIGERATOR
Take a cue from Alan the Gallant and wallpaper your refrigerator. I love the pattern he used, and it's perfect in a white, bright kitchen.

Renters Derek and Lauren spruced up their old white fridge with some inexpensive, DIY-able magnets. The look is lovely and unexpected.

Transform your fridge into the message board it should be with a can of chalkboard paint and some creativity. The tutorial is right here, and easier than pie! Lastly, if your kitchen is so outdated it hurts, make it work! Orla Kiely managed to bring retro back --- who says you can't?

Read More
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-DIY: Fragrant Lavender Bottles
-I Have Ugly Bathroom Tile