Some kitchens just feel expensive. It’s not always about marble benchtops or top-to-bottom renovations — sometimes, it comes down to thoughtful details and clever design choices. And if your goal is to elevate your kitchen without spending a fortune, there’s one often-overlooked tactic that makes a huge difference: upgrading your appliances for a sleeker, more cohesive look. Choosing premium Smeg appliances, for example, can instantly lift the entire aesthetic — even if the rest of your kitchen is relatively simple.
People often focus on cabinetry and benchtops when thinking about luxury upgrades, but appliances tend to draw the eye just as much. After all, your oven, fridge, and kettle are used every day — they’re functional, but they’re also part of your kitchen’s visual identity. The right pieces can make the space feel intentional and well-designed rather than thrown together.
Here’s how to get that high-end look — no knockdowns required.
1. Embrace a Unified Look
One of the fastest ways to cheapen the look of a kitchen is having mismatched appliances. A stainless-steel fridge next to a white dishwasher and a black microwave? It throws off the flow and makes the space feel cobbled together.
Instead, aim for consistency:
- Choose appliances from the same brand or colour range
- Match finishes (e.g., matte black, chrome, pastel, or stainless steel)
- Align handle styles and design lines where possible
Even small benchtop appliances like toasters or coffee machines can play a role. When everything feels connected, your kitchen gives off a polished, designer look — without needing new cabinetry or tiles.
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2. Display with Intention
Not every appliance needs to be tucked away. In fact, some are meant to be seen. When chosen well, appliances can double as décor — think of a retro-inspired kettle, a pastel-coloured mixer, or a minimalist espresso machine.
To style your space like a pro:
- Use open shelving or dedicated nooks to “frame” statement pieces
- Keep clutter to a minimum around key items so they stand out
- Pair appliances with matching accessories (like canisters or chopping boards)
This is a subtle but effective way to bring a designer edge into your everyday kitchen without making it look staged.
3. Upgrade the Everyday Basics
You don’t need a $10,000 oven to elevate your kitchen. Sometimes, it’s the smaller upgrades that make the most visual and practical impact.
Here are some affordable tweaks that punch above their weight:
- Swapping out an old rangehood for a quieter, more modern model
- Choosing an integrated dishwasher that blends into your cabinetry
- Upgrading the tapware and sink to something more refined and functional
If you’re building or renovating, it also pays to plan the layout around both looks and usability. Hidden power points, soft-close drawers, and under-cabinet lighting can all add to the feeling of luxury — even on a modest budget.
4. Think in Layers, Not Just Features
Expensive-looking kitchens aren’t just about the materials — they’re about how everything comes together. A luxury feel often comes from layered design: mixing textures, thoughtful lighting, and balancing hard surfaces with softness.
To layer your space effectively:
- Use warm lighting (not just bright white) for a cosier feel
- Add texture through timber stools, linen tea towels, or ceramic tiles
- Consider a feature wall with subtle paint or wallpaper to break up plain cabinetry
These layers make your kitchen feel more curated and less “flat.” The goal is to create a space that feels lived-in but deliberate — as if it was put together by an interior designer (even if it wasn’t).
When it comes to making your kitchen feel more expensive, it’s not always about gutting it and starting fresh. Sometimes, a smarter approach is to look at what’s already there — and consider how subtle swaps, upgrades, and design tweaks can elevate the whole space.
Start with the appliances, add some texture and intention, and watch your kitchen transform into a space that feels every bit as luxurious as it looks.
