I Asked 5 Designers the Best Affordable Way to Add Color to Your Kitchen — Their Tips Are Brilliant

I’m always looking for smart, easy ways to add a little more character to my home, especially in my kitchen. I’m not exactly planning for a renovation anytime soon (plus, I live in a rental!), so I set out to find simple ways to add a pop of color to the space without breaking the bank.

I asked some of my favorite interior designers to share the easiest ways to incorporate colors into your kitchen on a budget, and these were five of the best tips. (P.S. They can all be achieved for less than $50!).

Wall art is a fun way to liven up any space, and it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. I especially love incorporating artwork in my kitchen because it feels like a space where you can get creative and not have to take it too seriously. Think: a funky wall clock or punny signs.

“Whether it’s a bold abstract piece or a simple line drawing, art brings personality and vibrancy to a room in a way that feels truly personal,” says Alice Moszczynski, a New York-based interior designer. I like to find budget-friendly options at retailers like T.J. Maxx or HomeGoods — I’m loving this bright watercolor-inspired print or this funky black and gold cat print, and they’re both under $30!

Another (cheap!) option is to go the D.I.Y. route — and with social media, there are plenty of step-by-step guides and inspo videos out there, like this one, to help you get started. All you need is some paint and a canvas.

The great thing about this small, impactful change in your kitchen is that it’s easily removed (aka renter-friendly!). If you’re looking to add some color to the walls, or even the backsplash, try temporary vinyl wallpaper or peel-and-stick decals. You can get peel-and-stick wallpaper for as little as a few dollars a roll. 

Natalie Blies and Stacey Breezeel, cofounders and lead designers for Shine Interior Design Studio, recommend wrapping a small board for a faux backsplash look, lining the back of open shelving, or refreshing an island or drawer front with vinyl for a fresh look. “The impact is huge, and the commitment is low,” Blies says.

I’m a regular in the sale section at Anthropologie — mostly because I can get my hands on all of their cute seasonal glassware for a fraction of the usual cost. (I currently have my eyes on these chili pepper glasses, but I’m waiting until they go on sale.)

Collecting glassware, whether it’s from my favorite home stores or iconic restaurants I’ve visited during my travels, is such a fun way to display things I enjoy while also incorporating some personality into my kitchen decor. I display my glassware on the bar cart near my kitchen, but interior designer and influencer Sabrina Soto says any open shelving would work. “If you have open shelves, you’ve got a great chance to bring in color through dishes, bowls, or even a few cookbooks,” she says.

“Think small but intentional,” adds Nicole Cella, interior designer for Wayfair Professional. “Thrift stores, dollar sections in big-box retailers, and online marketplaces often carry kitchen accents for a fraction of the cost.” You can find small pieces to brighten up your space slowly over time, building up a collection of pieces that truly reflect your style and interests.

I’m still not over the time I found a baby blue Smeg toaster at HomeGoods … and didn’t buy it. I just know the pop of color would have looked amazing against my kitchen’s white backsplash and black counters. Alas! Maybe if I’d spoken to Cella sooner, I would’ve pulled the trigger. Luckily, her advice might save you from making the same mistake I did that day.

“If you’re looking to invest slightly more, splurge-worthy items that add color and function include enameled cast-iron Dutch ovens, statement toasters or kettles in retro hues, or patterned dishware sets,” Cella says. “These items bring both design and daily utility.” Amazon has some great budget-friendly options online, like this retro-style turquoise toaster that’s less than $26! 

One of the simplest ways to mix up the decor in your kitchen is to switch up the linens — tea towels, place mats, or curtains. The cool thing is you can find kitchen linens in almost every color and pattern imaginable to really fit your own style. I recommend checking out stores like Target, T.J. Maxx, and Anthropologie to find stylish and on-trend linens that won’t break the bank. 

To keep it current, Cella says trending colors this season include sage green, terracotta, deep navy, and mustard yellow, as well as more unexpected picks like blush pink and mint. Pro tip: I always check the sale sections after the holidays. You can often find certain patterns or colors there, like red or pink tea towels after Valentine’s Day. Linens are also a great way to experiment with certain colors in your kitchen before making a big commitment, like adding tile or painting. 

What’s your favorite way to add a pop of color to your kitchen? Let us know in the comments below!