Fourteen Ways to Brighten Up a Dark Kitchen

White, light gray, pale blue, or soft pastels on the walls can make a kitchen feel brighter and more spacious.

LED strips under cabinets illuminate countertops and add a warm glow to the room, doubling as both task lighting and ambiance.

Swapping outdated fixtures for pendant lights, chandeliers, or recessed lighting can meaningfully change a kitchen's brightness and style.

Mirrors, glass backsplashes, and stainless steel appliances all help bounce light around the room.

Open shelves make a kitchen feel more open and let you display colorful dishes or glassware for a pop of color.

Potted plants or herbs on a windowsill or in hanging pots bring life and freshness to the space.

A clean, uncluttered counter reads as brighter and more organized.

Sheer or light-colored window treatments let in more natural light, or skip window coverings altogether where privacy isn't a concern.

Glossy or reflective tiles behind the countertop help bounce light into the room.

White or light-colored cabinets can make a kitchen feel airier if a renovation is in the cards.

Colorful dishes, utensil holders, or small appliances add personality and a cheerful lift to the space.

Light wood or white tile flooring, or a light-colored rug, can help reflect light and warm up the room.

Enlarging or adding windows, or installing a skylight, brings in more daylight where the budget allows.

Regularly cleaning windows, light fixtures, and surfaces keeps dust and grime from dimming a bright kitchen over time. Tailoring these ideas to personal style and budget makes for a kitchen that feels welcoming and full of light.