How To Add Texture To Your Kitchen Without Spending A Ton Of Money

Between sleek cabinetry, smooth countertops, and shiny appliances, the kitchen is usually the last place you'd expect to find texture. But it doesn't have to be that way. Just like in any other room, texture brings depth, variety, and a whole lot of interest when done right. It's pretty much the key to keeping a space from appearing too flat and boring — which is the case for many kitchens.

By texture, we mean anything that has a distinct feel to it. It can be fabrics (yes, fabrics belong in the kitchen, too), plants, wallcoverings, or intricately detailed accessories. Note that texture is also visual. For instance, mixing different wood tones and hardware finishes can create a sense of dimension even if the material is on the smoother side.

While there are plenty of ways to add texture to your home decor, many involve spending a chunk of money when it comes to the kitchen. Thankfully, no one is going to be asked to change their countertop materials, upgrade cabinet styles, or do a full retile over here. Stick around as we explore budget-friendly updates that pack a punch in the texture department. Spoiler: These are guaranteed to take any kitchen from "meh" to "magazine-worthy."

Let's begin with mini makeover ideas for the DIYers. For you, adding texture could mean covering ugly countertops with a $15 marble contact paper from Amazon or applying a patterned, peel-and-stick backsplash over your existing tiles. This might also look like wrapping a reeded pole wrap (available from $57 at Home Depot) around the base of your kitchen island. Or maybe wallpaper is more up your alley, in which case try a textured design, such as grasscloth, to dial up the visual drama.

Next up is using functional kitchen items as texture boosters. One option that comes to mind is wooden cutting boards. Whether you simply lean yours against your backsplash or create a cutting board gallery wall, this utilitarian piece instantly delivers warmth and intrigue. The same can be said for copper pots, woven bar stools, bamboo blinds (like the $30 ALIMOO Bamboo Shades on Amazon), chunky light fixtures, unconventional handles, and scalloped dishware. You can even make the trendy sink skirt work in your space by introducing a rippled curtain in lieu of a flat cabinet door. The takeaway here? Practical can also mean beautiful and texture-filled.

Last but not least: Don't forget to sprinkle in textured decorative pieces. Something cute and petite, like Birch Lane's $69 Scalloped Rattan Lamp on Wayfair, can be tucked away in the corner of your kitchen. And of course, you can never go wrong with art and fresh flowers to bring this functional space to life.