When Melissa was ready to update her home, she assumed she’d need to repaint every wall to make a difference. Instead, she focused on smaller surfaces -- her outdated kitchen cabinets, worn door frames, and yellowing trim. 

The result? 

A fresh, modern look that transformed the space -- without the cost or chaos of a full repaint. 

While walls often steal the spotlight in paint projects, it's these overlooked surfaces that can deliver some of the most dramatic results. Here’s why painting cabinets, doors, and trim can make such a big difference -- and how to do it right. 

1. Cabinets: A Budget-Friendly Kitchen (or Bathroom) Upgrade

Replacing cabinets is expensive. But painting them?

• Costs a fraction of the price

• Makes old cabinets look new again

• Allows you to modernize with trending colors (think navy, deep green, or classic white)
  

Best finishes: Satin or semi-gloss for easy cleaning and durability

Pro Tip: Proper prep is key -- sand, clean, prime, then paint. Don’t rush the process.

2. Doors: The Subtle Statement Piece

Interior and exterior doors are often the first surfaces we interact with in a room, but they rarely get the attention they deserve.

• Repainting worn or chipped doors instantly elevates the space

• Colorful doors (like soft black, sage, or navy) add personality

• Don’t forget closet doors -- they’re part of the room too
  

Best finishes: Semi-gloss for its wipeability and slight sheen

3. Trim and Baseboards: Framing Your Style

Crisp, clean trim acts like a picture frame for your walls.

• White or off-white trim adds contrast and brightness

• A new coat covers years of dings, scuffs, and yellowing

• Painting crown molding or wainscoting can add sophistication
  

Best finishes: Gloss or semi-gloss for a durable, polished look

4. The “Mini Makeover” Effect

Updating just a few key surfaces can:

• Change the feel of an entire room

• Breathe new life into aging spaces

• Delay the need for bigger (and more expensive) renovations
  

Whether you're prepping to sell or simply want to fall in love with your home again, small updates go a long way.

Summary and Conclusion

You don’t have to repaint your whole house to make it feel new. Focusing on high-impact details like cabinets, doors, and trim can transform a space quickly and affordably.

Need help choosing the right colors and finishes -- or want the pros to take it off your plate? The Total Image Paint team is here to help. 

Book a consultation today and let’s refresh the details that matter most.