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Tired of the same old kitchen, but don’t want the hassle (or price tag) of an entire renovation? These fast and easy updates take the room from make-do to magnificent. …

1. Refresh Your Cabinets

An easy way to update cabinetry is by painting the insides a contrasting color, like architect Gil Schafer and his color consultant, Eve Ashcraft, did in this western Connecticut home. You'll enjoy the surprising detail every time you reach for a glass, or you can even try removing cabinet doors to get the look of open shelves.

2. Add Table Lamps

Put table lamps on your island or dining table to make your kitchen feel like a room, not a laboratory, like designer Robert Stillin did with Visual Comfort's Column lamp for a House Beautiful Kitchen of the Year.

3. Try a New Gadget

You don't have to invest in brand-new appliances like an