How to make a cheap kitchen countertop look more expensive, according to designers

Sometimes ripping out your kitchen and replacing it with something new just isn't an option. Perhaps you've just moved in or simply don't have the time or funds right now – but instead, why not look for ways to elevate what's already there?

There are so many ways to give your scheme an elevated look that doesn't require an expensive overhaul. And if you want to make cheap kitchen countertops look more expensive – you've come to the right place.

We've asked interior designers how they would give a tired, dated, or cheap-looking kitchen countertop a more luxurious look – and their ideas offer a fix for every space, style, and budget.

How to make a cheap kitchen countertop look more expensive

Ripping out your kitchen countertops for new ones isn't always an easy solution, but introducing elements that give them a more expensive look is. From backsplashes to decor, these methods are designer-approved.

1. Pair them with a statement backsplash

When it comes to kitchen countertops, the backsplash you pair it with is so important to the overall look. So, if you want to make a cheap kitchen countertop look more expensive, focus on creating a beautiful backsplash to pair with it.

'If you have countertops that you'd like to draw attention away from, adding a tiled backsplash can enhance the overall design of your kitchen. It not only elevates the space but also creates a cohesive and more polished, high-end look,' says Kali Gibson, of Fireclay Tile.

There are a few different approaches you can take here. In this kitchen, it was all about matching the undertones of the countertop and tiles. 'Pay attention to the color undertones in your countertop (e.g. warm or cool tones). Choose tiles with similar undertones to maintain harmony,' suggests Kali.

However, you could also focus on the textures instead, or choose a kitchen backsplash tile that distracts from your countertops altogether. 'Making the tile the focal point with a dynamic design or bold color is a great way to naturally draw the eye and guide visual interest.'

2. Paint the cabinets a complementary color

The key to making your kitchen countertops look more elevated is to surround them with complementary textures, materials, and colors. And your kitchen cabinets are a great place to set your focus.

'For a quick and effective kitchen refresh while keeping your existing countertop, start by painting the cabinets in a color that complements the countertop for a cohesive look,' says Sarah Kruse, owner and principal designer at Storie Designs.

This doesn't mean you have to repaint every cabinet in your kitchen – consider just painting the lower cabinets that connect to your countertops to minimize the work and create a two-tone kitchen scheme.

In this kitchen, the black kitchen countertops can easily look harsh in an all-white scheme, but introducing this rich green hue on the lower run of cabinets has given the design more visual interest and made the dark counters look softer and more cohesive.

3. Install in a decorative sink

If you want to detract from your countertops, adding a large, decorative kitchen sink is a great way to elevate the overall look. It will instantly add a touch of luxury to the space without having to make any expensive changes.

In this kitchen, a sink with a fluted design on the front adds a decorative element that draws the eye. A design like this one will instantly make a cheap kitchen countertop look more expensive – especially if you add a beautiful brass faucet.

4. Spruce up you countertops with elegant decor

If you want to keep things really simple, you can make your countertops look more expensive by decorating them with stylish and elegant pieces. You could turn kitchenware into decor here, or stick to intentional decor that's purely aesthetic.

'Simple accents like marble trays can add elegance without the cost – use them to organize oils, candles, or decor. These small updates are both affordable and transformative,' says Sarah.

Choose a tray design that complements to color and texture of your countertops. If a marble tray clashes, a wooden option might be better suited. Or, some metallic trays can add a chic touch to your kitchen.

5. Surround your kitchen countertops in a moody hue

If you're trying to elevate dark countertops, sometimes the best approach is to lean into the moody color palette. Black countertops can feel quite stark and harsh against lighter colors, but embracing deeper colors can feel much more intentional.

This kitchen is a perfect example. To counteract the darkness of the countertops and detract from them, a deep burgundy hue has been used on the lower cabinets, backsplash, and shelf.

The rest of the walls have been kept a warm neutral paint color so the kitchen still feels lights and open, but you no longer focus on the kitchen cabinets – instead you just admire the on-trend design.

Sometimes, elevating your existing countertops is simply a case of pairing it with the right colors, textures, and decor. So, whether you use paint to draw the eye away, add a sense of luxury with a backsplash, or simply add elevated decor, there's a suggestion here for every style and budget.