Refrigerator Wrapping: Learn how to freshen up your kitchen’s look without spending a lot

In the gourmet balcony, the architect highlighted the resident's passion for the movie ‘The GodFather’, a classic directed by Francis Coppola | Photo: Carlos Piratininga
In the gourmet balcony, the architect highlighted the resident’s passion for the movie ‘The GodFather’, a classic directed by Francis Coppola | Photo: Carlos Piratininga

Refrigerator wrapping can be one of the most practical and economical solutions for those looking to revamp their kitchen ambiance.

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Often times, the appliance’s paint may be damaged and amidst a tight budget for renovation or replacement, refrigerator wrapping is the ideal solution. “In some situations, the project may call for a specific combination of colors, aesthetics, and styles. So, why not dare and wrap the fridge in a different color?”, proposes architect Cristiane Schiavoni.
Our view of beauty and harmony is constantly evolving, just like human ideas. We may simply tire of the environment where we spend our days and call for a fresh start. “Very fast and practical, wrapping is like applying a sticker and, from one day to the next, the resident can experience the feeling of a brand-new refrigerator,” assesses the architect. “Unless the appliance has technical problems, I believe there’s no reason to buy a new product unnecessarily,” she adds.

Next, follow the instructions on refrigerator wrapping:

How is the wrapping done?
In the kitchen designed by architect Cristiane Schiavoni, the refrigerator wrapping allowed for adding a unique fridge for the residents. With a chalkboard feel, the door highlights positive messages | Photo: Carlos Piratininga
In the kitchen designed by architect Cristiane Schiavoni, the refrigerator wrapping allowed for adding a unique fridge for the residents. With a chalkboard feel, the door highlights positive messages | Photo: Carlos Piratininga

The refrigerator is wrapped using a vinyl and there are various types available in the market: plain, patterned, or finished with a protective film. Among the options, contact paper is one of the most affordable, however, according to the architect, “its durability is not the best”. Therefore, vinyl, when combined with proper cleaning, proves to be the most suitable material for long-term use.
For the installation, she also advises hiring a professional to avoid common mistakes, such as bubbles, potential marks from attempting to fix mid-application issues, or even incorrect measurement. “Visible seams break the intent of making the fridge look painted,” advises Cristiane.

But for those who want to risk it, it is possible to follow a step-by-step guide. The first step is to meticulously measure the refrigerator’s dimensions to cut the sticker. Once this is done, it is essential to clean and dry the surface before application to prevent any obstacles when sticking the chosen material. “To start, the sticker should be adjusted from top to bottom with a spatula that assists in this process. I recommend patience and, after everything is ready, a damp cloth over the entire surface completes the wrapping,” the professional suggests.

Even though it is considered a temporary solution, taking good care of the refrigerator wrap can make it last. Moreover, the numerous benefits include cost-effectiveness and the way the change is implemented.

Decoration with wrapping
In this kitchen, architect Cristiane Schiavoni solved a dissatisfaction of the resident, who bought the wrong model of refrigerator. To overcome the situation, she suggested wrapping it in the same yellow tone already part of the cabinetry. “Enthusiastically, the client loved it,” she recalls | Photo: Carlos Piratininga
In this kitchen, architect Cristiane Schiavoni solved a dissatisfaction of the resident, who bought the wrong model of refrigerator. To overcome the situation, she suggested wrapping it in the same yellow tone already part of the cabinetry. “Enthusiastically, the client loved it,” she recalls | Photo: Carlos Piratininga

“I love the simplicity and versatility of wrapping. In projects, it allows us to customize the appliance according to the decorative style, be it vintage, contemporary, retro, and industrial, among other possibilities,” emphasizes the architect. “And I can fulfill my clients’ wishes, which makes me even more satisfied,” she adds.

For a clean environment, Cristiane Schiavoni suggests using white with textures. For a more contemporary space, tones like silver or a brushed steel finish are good choices. For a vintage décor, expressive colors like light blue, light yellow, and red are great fits. “We can also invest in an affectionate side, with wrapping accompanied by positive messages in a chalkboard atmosphere,” she suggests.

Finally, black can be very well used, as well as stickers that mimic corten steel, reminiscent of an industrial style. “The possibilities are endless and the secret is to use creativity,” reinforces Cristiane.

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