Kitchen Upgrades That Don’t Require a Remodel

Our kitchens and baths are the rooms most typically targeted for a new and updated look in our homes. But sometimes, the budget may not cover an expensive remodel involving construction. Not to worry: There are many do-it-yourself changes homeowners can accomplish in thrifty ways themselves, or procure from professionals for much less money. The results can be like having an entirely new space without breaking the bank.

Here are some ideas for updating and upgrading your kitchen without doing a renovation.

• Painting the Walls — Paint is still one of the most economical ways to change the look of your home! And it can be accomplished by most homeowners. A new wall color may be just what you need until you can afford some further updates. Or, you may want to give the cabinets a color facelift.
• One Wow Factor — Every room should have it – that one feature which calls attention to itself and the room, elevating the whole atmosphere. Most likely it may be a state of the art appliance for your resident chef who loves to cook. Or, perhaps a sleek, water-conserving dishwasher when you decide you have had enough of washing by hand every day.
• Cabinetry & Storage — Cabinets, along with counters and appliances, are among the costliest kitchen features. If you want new cabinets but can’t afford expansive new ones, consider hiring a contractor to resurface them. They will look like brand new to visitors. Another option is to remove cabinets that date the look of your room and replace them with open shelving for a more modern and industrial look.
• Hardware — New cabinet and drawer pulls can provide a new look for little investment. From trendy industrial or vintage retro to colorful and even whimsical designs in metal and wood, hardware quickly changes your kitchen’s personality.
• Counter & Backsplashes — Counters are among the priciest items to replace in your kitchen. Finding a large piece of vintage marble or a handmade wood cutting board that can take up a featured place on an island or large counter, can have a huge impact. Backsplashes are less expensive than counters and can often be installed by a crafty homeowner.
• Lighting — Lighting products are so varied and can pump up the decorative volume in a kitchen. Trends such as under cabinet lighting are inexpensive and easy to install, some even sticking on. They also add a softer look, and LED varieties can help with your cost-saving measures. You might even consider investing in a statement lighting fixture to hang over the sink or an island.

Redoing a kitchen on your own will be invaluable in learning some new skills that will serve you as a homeowner while providing a sense of personal accomplishment. You might like the results so much, that you move on to other house projects.