Kitchen upgrades have ruled home renovations for a while now. According to the 2022 U.S. Houzz and Home Study, homeowners focused on interior room renovations in 2021, with kitchen renovations being the most popular. Homeowners invested 25% more in kitchen upgrades in 2021 than in 2020, raising the average investment from $12,000 to $15,000.
The good news is you don’t have to spend so much on every renovation. One of the best ways to refurbish your home without breaking the bank is by repurposing kitchen cabinets. Besides being cost-effective, it’s also environmentally friendly. When you repurpose old cabinets, you help save trees and recycle products that would otherwise end up in a landfill.
That said, where’s a good place to start? Here are a few unique old cabinets ideas to get your repurposing project going.
Ways to Use Repurposed Kitchen Cabinets
When it comes to ways to use repurposed kitchen cabinets, you have virtually unlimited choices. Many repurpose their kitchen cabinets as inexpensive storage units, home office storage cabinets, or garage shelves, among other things. Let’s look at a few unique and popular ideas for repurposing your kitchen cabinets.
1. Convert Cabinets into Cabinetry for Home Office
An easy way to give your home office a makeover is by transforming your kitchen cabinets into home office cabinetry. This is a practical solution because home office cabinet ideas are often easy to execute.
One approach for creating stylish home office cabinets is to remove the doors and shelves from the original cabinets. Then, customize by using storage and organizational tools such as hooks, bins, dividers, and/or integrated lighting depending on your needs.
2. Transform Cabinets into a Stylish Bar Cart
Transform your old kitchen cabinets into a stylish bar cart for a popular, trendy makeover. First, remove the cabinet doors and modify the shelves to accommodate bottle storage. Second, install wine glass holders or racks to keep your stemware organized. Next, add wheels for easy mobility and a countertop for serving drinks. There you go – cheers to a stylish bar cabinet on wheels!
3. Upcycle Cabinets into a Storage Bench
Another way to upcycle kitchen cabinets is to transform them into a storage bench, using base cabinets as a sturdy foundation. You can then attach a cushioned seat on top for added comfort.
To create a concealed kitchen storage bench, keep the doors intact to keep stored items organized and out of sight.
4. Build a Garage or Workshop Storage System
If you have a garage or workshop, you can turn your kitchen cabinets into a
custom storage system. A good place to start is to repurpose wall-mounted or overhead cabinets for tool storage units. It is easy to customize shelves and hooks to accommodate specific tools and equipment, maximizing accessibility.
Utilize cabinet doors and drawers to store smaller items and hardware. This way, you can keep everything neat and within reach.
5. Create a Kid’s Play Kitchen
For a more creative solution your kids (or grandkids) will love, instead of creating a kitchen cabinet bench seat or garage shelves, repurpose old cabinets by creating a DIY play kitchen. Even better, ask your kids to lend a hand while you make it. It’ll be fun, plus they’ll learn a thing or two.
Upper kitchen cabinets are great for DIY kitchens. Repaint cabinets in vibrant colors to create a playful atmosphere. Attach colorful knobs, hooks, and accessories for an interactive experience. Use open shelves to display play food and utensils. Then, watch as your little ones engage in pretend play, providing endless entertainment and fostering important life skills.
Tips for Repurposing Kitchen Cabinets
Now that we’ve explored uses for repurposing kitchen cabinets, let’s take a look at tips for how to do it. Whether you use upper kitchen cabinets, kitchen bases, or kitchen side cabinets, there are a few things to keep in mind as you repurpose them (the first of which is to have fun!).
1. Cleaning and Preparation
Before you start to transform kitchen cabinets, make sure to clean them thoroughly. Remove any dirt, debris, peeling paint, polish, or grease from the cabinets and get them ready. Remember, you need a smooth and clean base to start your work.
2. Consider the Modifications
Next, check the cabinets to determine what modifications you need. These modifications will depend on your repurposing ideas. You may need to remove doors, add or adjust shelves, or create openings for specific uses. Plan the modifications carefully. They must align with your desired outcome.
3. Use Quality Paint and/or Finishes
High-quality paint or finishes help you achieve the desired look. More importantly, they increase the lifespan of your repurposed cabinets. Consider the style and theme you want to create and select colors or finishes accordingly. Also, properly prime the cabinets before painting. It can ensure a long-lasting finish.
4. Ensure Structural Stability and Safety
Repurposed kitchen cabinets must be structurally stable and safe. Be sure to reinforce weak spots, tighten screws, and make any necessary repairs to ensure the durability and safety of your repurposed cabinets.
5. Get Creative
When repurposing cabinets, get as creative as you want. Consider adding personal touches and unique features. This might include decorative hardware, trim, or even stenciling or decoupage. Let your imagination soar to make the project your own.
6. Seek Inspiration and Ideas
Look for inspiration online, in magazines, or through DIY communities. The more ideas for repurposing kitchen cabinets you can gather, the better. There are countless innovative and creative projects out there.
Give Old Cabinets New Life
Repurposing kitchen cabinets is a cost-effective way to give them a new lease on life. It is also an eco-friendly and creative way to transform old cabinets. The possibilities are endless, whether you want to transform them into a play kitchen, storage bench, or workshop system. Just go ahead and tap into your creativity.
In the meantime, if you are looking for new custom cabinets? Discover the expertise and quality of Holland’s Custom Cabinets. Whether you are repurposing old cabinets or need new ones, we can bring your vision to life. Call 619.443.6081 or complete our online form to get in touch.
