Everything You Need in the Ideal Kitchen

Once your countertops are safely sealed, look forward! Yep, that bare wall above your granite counters definitely needs a tile backsplash. Why? Because it's one of the fastest and least expensive ways to give your entire kitchen a stylish detail.

So you already have a backsplash, but it's giving you 80s flashbacks – and not in a good way. Don't worry: if you can spare about $30, you can refresh outdated tile with paint in just a few hours.

For a more robust update, try installing a ductless range hood above your stovetop. This steel beauty will immediately modernize your kitchen by making it feel more open. Bonus? It doesn't require any additional vent holes in your ceiling or roofline (although we do recommend that you check with your local building code to make absolutely sure you're in the clear).

Next, it's time to set the mood. Yep, we're talking about wall sconces. Whether you're sipping wine with friends or cooking up an early morning breakfast for you and your boo, lighting is a simple way to set the tone for your entire space.

Many of us can't start our days without turning on a coffee machine. But if you consider your countertop space a precious commodity, design a coffee bar instead. It will help keep all of your caffeine must-haves in one place, so you can get your necessary cup of joe with ease.

Now, it's time to start putting the finishing touches on your kitchen upgrade. Start with the seats that everyone sees as soon as they walk into the room: the bar stools. If you don't have the dough for new bar stools (who does, really?), just upcycle the ones you have with an of-the-moment fabric and a fresh coat of paint. It's a simple way to reimagine a classic item for a modern space.

Of course, no kitchen is really "ideal" until all of your cabinets are properly organized. Get your KonMari on and discard old and under-used items. Soon, your entire collection of dishes and utensils will be in order.

If you tossed out old baking sheets and measuring spoons to get those well-organized cabinets and drawers, then it's time to replace them with the best tools and equipment you need to get your bake on. Even if you're not a culinary whiz, these items are guaranteed to make you feel like any sweet recipe is within reach.

Knives follow that same streamlined mentality: dull blades are no good to you. If you want to slice and dice every food imaginable, you'll need your kitchen to be outfitted with all the proper knives. Just get the ones you know you'll use regularly, and you'll be all set.

Whether you're trying to nail a Giada-worthy kitchen outfit or you're just hoping to protect your favorite shirt, an apron is a must-have when you're spending any amount of time in front of an appliance. Plus, it's irresistible when it has pockets.

Once your kitchen is sparkling, it's ready to be used. But with use comes dirt, smells and a lot of other not-so-pleasing issues. This is why you need a multi-purpose cleaner in your arsenal. It's a chemical-free formula that will restore your kitchen's luster without any harsh residues.