Here are some inexpensive remodeling ideas that can give a kitchen a high-budget look:
- Cabinets are often the most expensive element of a kitchen remodel, but you can save money in many ways.
Instead of replacing your cabinets, consider refacing them, a process that just replaces the doors and trim rather than the whole cabinet.
Use glass in some cabinet doors, or paint or re-stain your cabinets a different color. - Changing the countertops can do wonders to refresh the look of a kitchen.
If you're in love with the look of solid granite but blanch at the price tag, consider tiles of granite or another stone to simulate the look at a lower price. - Laminate countertops can now mimic more expensive materials, include a wide range of colors and textures, and have a variety of edge shapes.
Starting at about $25 per square foot, laminate is still the most budget-friendly option. - Budget dishwashers and refrigerators don't have to look inexpensive.
You can replace the fronts of some appliances with stainless steel to give a more modern appearance.
Some appliances also have removable panels that allow you to match them to the rest of the kitchen. - Recycling is more than just eco-friendly; it's a big money saver.
You can pull furniture from other rooms to serve as a cabinet or an island.
Discarded old doors can enclose a pantry or serve as a desk. - The burnished metal look so popular today can be found by re-using antique fixtures, and old farmhouse sinks can give your kitchen a unique look.
- A new coat of paint can completely change the look of a room at a small cost.
Sometimes just updating trim color makes a kitchen look refreshed. - Back splashes in striking patterns or colors can also be added easily and inexpensively.
Choose inexpensive tile and hire a professional.
All tile looks best when evenly and neatly installed. - Pick up wine racks for a few dollars at thrift stores.
When stained to match cabinets, you can achieve the built-in look for a fraction of the cost. - Swap or add lighting.
Replace dated light fixtures with bright modern ones to easily update a look.
Shop big-box clearance racks for pieces that are floor models or last-season to save on the purchase price.