--- title: How To Make Golden Oak Cabinets Look Modern Without Refinishing description: Are you ready to refresh your golden oak kitchen cabinets? Besides refinishing or painting the honey oak finish, check out all of your options, here. image: https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hubfs/King%20Before%203-1.jpg --- [Skip to main content](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/modern-oak-cabinets#maincontent) [ «  Learning Center ](https://brushandrollpainting.com/learning-center) # How To Make Golden Oak Cabinets Look Modern Without Refinishing August 8th, 2023 2 min read By [Kaylea Kuhlman](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/author/kaylea-kuhlman-content-manager) ![](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/King%20Before%203-1.jpg?width=4288&height=2848&name=King%20Before%203-1.jpg) You either love or hate them, but golden oak cabinets are common in homes that were built in the 80s and 90s. Cabinet refinishing is a great option for removing that finish from your kitchen completely. But, if that is currently out of your budget, there are some small changes to make your oak cabinets look more modern.  At Brush & Roll Painting, we have been transforming kitchens in the Omaha area since 1996. Our work provides durable and lasting results, whether it’s significant or subtle changes. In this article, we will give you 4 ideas for making your oak cabinets look more up-to-date. By reading this, you might have a better idea of how you want to transform your kitchen. ## 1. Change countertops or backsplash Switching your countertops and backsplash for a more modern style will elevate your space. White is an excellent choice for this, it’s classic and will lighten up the space.  To fit a smaller budget, you could use a peel-and-stick backsplash. If you have a lighter oak, darker countertops, and backsplash will pair perfectly.  ## 2. A durable protectant layer There is nothing more modern than durable cabinets. Cabinets with scratches or nicks in the wood are unappealing and do not add value to your home. If your cabinets are looking a little damaged or just need more protection, a clear coat will do just the trick. This will be a little more costly than some other options for making the most out of oak cabinets, but it will prolong the life of the wood. In addition, it will cost less than refinishing with any other finish or refacing the cabinets. It is also resistant to chemicals, moisture, abrasion, fading, and scratches.  ## 3. Switch out your hardware Switching out your hardware can make a world of difference. Consider changing the tone and the style to a more modern finish. This little detail will make the oak cabinets look reinvented.  Hardware finishes that golden oak cabinets look modern with are matte black or dark bronze. When choosing hardware, straight handles, and simple knobs are more modern than handles with detail.  ## 4. Paint the walls in your kitchen Painting the walls in your kitchen a lighter neutral color will help your whole space come together with your golden oak cabinets. Not only are these shades modern, but they are timeless and will look great if you decide to refinish your cabinets with a different color later down the line. Sage green or light blue shades also pair well with golden oak cabinets. ## Conclusion If you’re not ready to rid your cabinets of golden oak just yet but want a modern style, consider one of those options to refresh your kitchen. If you are ready to refinish your cabinets or add a durable layer of protection to your oak cabinets, schedule an estimate with Brush & Roll Painting in Omaha, NE. [![GET A QUOTE](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7973434/ec6000a3-33c6-4216-8296-42e19b316d3d.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7973434/ec6000a3-33c6-4216-8296-42e19b316d3d) Next, [discover the 2023 kitchen cabinet trends](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/2023-kitchen-cabinet-trends). Incorporating one of those trends in your kitchen with golden oak cabinets will be sure to bring them up to date. [ Kaylea Kuhlman ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/author/kaylea-kuhlman-content-manager) Kaylea is the Content Manager at Brush & Roll Painting, where she leads the company’s marketing strategy, content creation, and brand messaging. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a degree in Journalism and Media Communications and a minor in Marketing, combining strong writing skills with a clear understanding of how to connect with homeowners. Since joining Brush & Roll Painting at the end of 2022, Kaylea has played a key role in shaping how the company communicates with its customers. She works closely with the team to turn real, on-the-job experience into helpful, easy-to-understand content that answers the questions homeowners are already asking. Her approach focuses on clarity, honesty, and making sure people feel confident before starting a painting project. Kaylea’s work helps bridge the gap between technical painting knowledge and everyday decision-making. Whether it’s explaining the difference between paint finishes, helping homeowners choose the right cabinet color, or breaking down what to expect from a professional painting process, her goal is always the same: to make the process feel simple and stress-free. Topics Kaylea Covers: Kaylea writes and creates content across all areas of residential painting, including: -Interior painting (walls, ceilings, trim, and woodwork) -Exterior painting and maintenance -Cabinet painting and refinishing -Deck staining and wood care -Paint colors, finishes, and design decisions -What to expect when hiring a professional painter -Common homeowner questions, concerns, and mistakes to avoid Her content is designed to give homeowners clear answers, set realistic expectations, and help them make confident decisions about their home. 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