Cabinet options: Many people today are opting for a lighter, fresher look in their old kitchen cabinets. The most expensive choice would be to replace the cabinets completely. Another option would be to reface the cabinets. This involves applying a new wood veneer to the cabinet bases and installing new doors and drawers.

Your other option would be to paint or stain the cabinets, which can be the most cost-effective of all, offering the best return on your investment.

Color features: Cabinets in colors can be very exciting in the kitchen: in postal blue, parfait (a light peachy-pink), whisper gray and sunny yellow. Decorating magazines often show cabinets in spruce green, Navy blue and weathered or faux finishes. One of the latest trends is to combine painting and staining in different areas of the same kitchen cabinets, or stain in two different colors. You are only limited by your imagination! If you are not sure what color to select, your paint professional may offer color consultations, or you may want to get advice from an interior designer.