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Tired of your old kitchen? Do you feel that it is looking dull and traditional? Then maybe it is time to give it a facelift. By focusing on some or all elements of new kitchen design, you are able to update your kitchen without having to spend much.

So how does a new kitchen look like? The keyword is minimalism. With fewer fixtures, the kitchen now looks big and less cluttered, giving more space where family members can gather. For some, the modern kitchen also serves as a family room. Here are some elements of new kitchen design.

First thing to consider is the appliances. Modern appliances are usually metallic. This gives the kitchen a sleek look. Cords and sockets are no longer visible. Bigger appliances like ovens and refrigerators are now built-in.

The next element is the kitchen cabinets. Solid hardwood cabinets, especially if in deep or dark shades, can give your kitchen a traditional or country look, not to mention dark and gloomy. Update your cabinets by using a modern finish or paint color on the doors. You can also update them by changing the knobs and pulls with new styles. If you are not on a tight budget, you can change the entire cabinet or its door with metal or glass to match the appliances. Frosted or clear glass cabinet doors will make your kitchen look posh.

Countertops, tiles and sinks must also be contemporary and, more importantly, easy to clean. Granite countertop is the most common type, and manufacturers have come up with bolder designs and colors. For tiles, decorative and colored tiles are still in. A stainless steel sink, or stylish ceramic one, would look good in a new kitchen. Do not neglect the faucets. Choose a slimmer, beautiful faucet design that would blend well with the other fixtures.

Walls and ceilings must also be considered. Be experimental with paint colors and wallpaper designs. Some modern kitchen walls have textured paint, while others have murals or some interesting artwork. Choose a color that would make the kitchen look wider and brighter. It must also be of a color that would put together the whole kitchen.

Other elements that may seem unimportant are flooring and lighting. What most people don't know is that all efforts to modernizing your kitchen would be useless if the flooring and lighting is of the dark ages. There are many options for flooring. You can choose from wood, vinyl, tiles or stone. In choosing, consider the kitchen traffic and maintenance. If there is more floor activity, then the material must be able to handle that. Avoid shiny flooring, as these can cause slips and accidents. Lastly, choose the type of flooring that would complement with the cabinets and furniture. The same goes for lighting. While it is important that the kitchen is well-lit, lighting must also be attractive.