(BPT) - As the heart of the home, the kitchen comes even more alive during the holiday season. From baking favorite treats and preparing beloved family dishes to hosting special events of all sizes, it's the hub of the holidays.

To prepare for all the buzz and make a great first impression on guests, consider upgrades to elevate the kitchen space. A few smart swaps and simple additions will enhance your kitchen to make it stylish and functional - both must-haves for the holidays and into the new year.

1. Create cohesiveness with hardware

Just like the right accessories complete an outfit, new drawer pulls and knobs can polish a kitchen aesthetic and provide cohesiveness. Remove old hardware and replace it with quality options in modern finishes and designs to add a touch of sophistication. Consider matte black or modern brass which are currently trending, but also timeless finishes.

2. A new faucet adds function

An old, dated faucet can be an eyesore that lacks functionality. Swap in the Edelyn kitchen faucet by Kohler x Studio McGee for a fresh look with a distinguished, high-profile spout and clean lines. Beyond its striking appearance, the faucet is practical, providing three spray functions for tackling kitchen tasks. With multiple finish options, matching to your kitchen design is a breeze.

3. Find containers for functional items

As much as you use your cupboard and pantry for storage, there are certain items like dish soap, coffee and sugar that you keep on the countertop for easy access. You can easily elevate the look of your kitchen by putting everyday items into special containers. For example, dish soap can be stored in an olive oil decanter that looks pretty next to the sink.

4. Enhance functionality with layered lighting

Drab, dated lighting fixtures make it difficult to get kitchen tasks done. Consider upgrading with Keren Lighting and Embra Lighting by Kohler x Studio McGee that allow you to thoughtfully layer task, ambient and accent lighting. With timeless design elements like glass spheres and textured details in numerous finishes, you'll add fashion in addition to function to the kitchen.

5. Refresh the walls with paint and more

A new coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to update the kitchen aesthetic. Earth tones are popular in kitchens as well as nature-inspired greens and blues. You might even consider adding wallpaper to a focal wall or as an alternative to a tile backsplash. Adding a few pieces of art can also enhance the kitchen appearance.

The kitchen provides the backdrop for many important memories. From celebrations to sharing recipes to handing down cooking traditions, it's important to create a space that is beautiful and functional. For more ideas and inspiration for kitchen upgrades, visit Kohler.com.