How To Modernize Old Built-Ins For A Fresh Look

If you have outdated built-in cabinets or shelves in your home, there are simple steps you can take to modernize them and give them a fresh look. Whether it’s updating old built-ins, revamping built-in shelves, or renovating built-in furniture, this DIY project is budget-friendly and can be completed in just a weekend.

One effective way to modernize your built-ins is by changing the cabinet doors. By incorporating sleek, contemporary designs, you can instantly transform the look of your cabinets. Additionally, adding mini barn door hardware can provide a modern and stylish touch to your built-ins.

Another key aspect of modernizing built-ins is applying a fresh coat of paint. A new color can completely revamp the appearance of your built-ins, giving them a more modern and updated feel. Consider using light and neutral shades to create an open and airy atmosphere.

To ensure a successful built-in makeover, it’s essential to gather the right supplies and prepare your space accordingly. Tools such as a Super Finish Max paint sprayer, tape measure, and a miter saw will come in handy during the update. Additionally, you’ll need latex paint, primer, painter’s tape, masking paper, dropcloths, and other protective gear.

Follow these simple steps to update your old built-ins and create a more modern and stylish look for your home:

1. Remove all doors, hardware, shelves, and shelf clips.
2. Clean the wood thoroughly with a clean painter’s rag and simple green.
3. Apply primer and two coats of white latex paint using a paint sprayer.
4. Change the door style by building new shaker doors out of plywood and adding edge banding.
5. Attach trim to cover any rough edges and sand everything smooth.
6. Paint the doors, shelves, and trim with a paint sprayer.
7. Complete the update by attaching mini barn door hardware.

By following these steps and using the right tools and materials, you can successfully update your old built-ins and give them a fresh and modern look. With a weekend’s worth of work, you can transform your space and create a more stylish and inviting atmosphere.

Key Takeaways:

• Updating old built-ins is a budget-friendly DIY project that can be completed in a weekend.
• Changing cabinet doors and adding mini barn door hardware can instantly modernize built-ins.
• Applying a fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of your built-ins.
• Gather the necessary supplies, including a paint sprayer, primer, and protective gear, before starting the update.
• Follow step-by-step instructions to remove, clean, paint, and update your built-ins for a more modern and stylish appearance.

Supplies and Preparation for Updating Built-Ins

Before you begin updating your built-ins, gather all the necessary supplies. You will need the following:

Painting Supplies:

• Super Finish Max paint sprayer: for a smooth and even paint application.
• Extra paint containers: to easily switch between paint colors.
• Latex paint: in white for a fresh and modern look.
• Latex primer: to ensure proper adhesion and coverage.
• Painter’s tape: for clean edges and precise painting.
• Masking paper: to protect surfaces from overspray.
• Dropcloths: to cover and protect floors and furniture.

Cleansing and Protection:

• Simple green: for cleaning and preparing the surfaces.
• Respiratory protection: such as a respirator, to protect against paint fumes and airborne particles.
• UV protection safety glasses: to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and debris.
• Hearing protection: to preserve your hearing during the renovation process.

Changing Door Style:

• Mini barn door hardware: for adding a stylish and contemporary touch.
• Edge banding: to create a clean and finished look on the edges of plywood doors.
• Plywood: for constructing new shaker-style doors.
• Wood glue: to securely bond the pieces of plywood together.
• Drill: for making holes and attaching the hardware.
• Miter saw: for precise and accurate cuts.
• Table saw: for ripping plywood into the desired widths.
• Brad nailer: for fastening the plywood pieces together.
• Tape measure: for measuring and marking dimensions.
• Kreg Multi Mark tool: for easily measuring and marking cuts.

Now that you have gathered all the necessary supplies, you are ready to update your built-ins and give them a fresh and modern look!

Steps to Update Old Built-Ins

Here are the steps to update your old built-ins:

1. Remove all doors, hardware, shelves, and shelf clips.
2. Clean the wood thoroughly with a clean painter’s rag and simple green.
3.  
4. Dilute primer with water and apply two coats using a paint sprayer, allowing each coat to dry fully.
5. Apply white latex paint for the topcoat, diluting it to the same consistency.
6. Change the door style of the cabinets by building new shaker doors out of plywood and adding edge banding.
7. Assemble the doors with wood glue and brad nails, filling in gaps with wood filler.
8. Attach trim to cover any rough edges and sand everything smooth.
9. Paint the doors, shelves, and trim with a paint sprayer.
10. Address any gaps caused by uneven walls with new trim and caulk.
11. Attach the mini barn door hardware to the new doors and the base, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Updating built-ins in an old house can be a rewarding project that breathes new life into your space. By following these steps and using the right techniques, you can transform your outdated built-ins into modern and stylish focal points. Don’t be afraid to get creative with paint, door styles, and hardware options to achieve the look you desire. With a fresh coat of paint, new doors, and the addition of decorative hardware, your built-ins will be revitalized and ready to enhance the beauty of your home.

Conclusion

By following these steps and using the right tools and materials, you can successfully modernize your old built-ins and give them a fresh look. The process of updating built-in cabinets and shelves can be a cost-effective and rewarding DIY renovation project. Whether you are changing the cabinet doors, adding mini barn door hardware, or simply applying a fresh coat of paint, these updates will transform your built-ins into stylish and modern focal points in your home.

Don’t let outdated built-ins overshadow the rest of your space – take the time to give them the attention they deserve and create a more modern and refreshed look for your home. With some creativity and a little bit of effort, you can achieve a built-ins makeover that will leave you with a sense of pride and satisfaction. Say goodbye to dull and outdated built-ins, and hello to a fresh and contemporary interior.

So why wait? Start your DIY renovation project today and enjoy the benefits of a modern and stylish home. With the right tools, materials, and a little bit of time investment, you can transform your old built-ins into functional and aesthetically pleasing elements that enhance the overall look and feel of your space. Give your built-ins the attention they deserve and create a fresh new look that will impress your family, friends, and guests.

Source Links

• https://h2obungalow.com/how-to-update-old-built-ins-cabinets-and-shelves/
• https://carlaaston.com/designed/before-after-how-to-update-deep-cabinetry-for-big-flat-screen-tv
• https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/100-year-old-built-ins-renter-redo-36891148