How to Budget for a Small Kitchen Renovation This Fall
When you think about budgeting a kitchen, you might feel overwhelmed or think that it is too expensive to consider. What if you could do small kitchen renovations on a budget? It is possible, but renovations won’t be covered under even the best home warranty companies unless you’re replacing appliances. Make sure you know what you’re getting into before you get going.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Paint the Cabinets
If your kitchen looks dated, consider giving it a facelift by painting the cabinets. It is a relatively cheap DIY project that you can do over a weekend. Look at the on-trend color palettes to help you choose a fun color, or go with a simple white for a classic look. You might even be able to visit a local recycling center and find free paint to do your kitchen, bringing your cost down to whatever it costs you in gas to get there and back.
New Faucet Fixtures
Are your faucets looking cruddy or outdated? Consider upgrading them for a new look to your kitchen sink. Go with an oil-rubbed bronze or a matte black for a bold statement. Consider a brushed nickel for a look that fits in with a classic or contemporary kitchen style because it blends in well with multiple kitchen elements. If you’ve stuck to your budget so far, you can even splurge a little here.
Butcher Block Countertops
Replacing your existing countertops with butcher block counters could be a longer renovation project, but it can still fit into a smaller budget. By replacing the older countertops with butcher blocks, you will get a modern look while keeping your kitchen looking fresh. Expect to spend at least a few days getting it done, and do not forget to treat the blocks with the appropriate moisturizing oil to keep them looking great for years to come.
Replace Cabinets With Floating Shelves
You do not need to replace all of your cabinets, but to clean up the look of your kitchen, consider replacing some of them with floating shelves. Open shelves give your kitchen contemporary style points while encouraging you to purge unnecessary items from your space. Floating shelves also provide a great place to showcase some of your favorite things, like dishes, vintage glasses, or other types of unique décor.
Add a Kitchen Island
If you have the space, consider adding a bar-height kitchen island with extra seating. It does double duty as a place to prep and then to eat. A kitchen island adds a welcoming vibe to your kitchen because of its function. You will also end up with extra storage space that can come in handy after you have replaced some cabinets with floating shelves.
Change Light Fixtures
Fresh light fixtures can add a whole new feel to your kitchen space. It doesn’t take much to change them out either, and you can likely do it yourself in less than an hour. Consider what type of lighting would work best in your space. Pendant lights or shades with interesting textures add a new element to your kitchen without being overwhelming. You will appreciate that your wallet will not suffer either because this type of quick renovation does not have to cost a lot. Consider visiting thrift stores for unique options that will complement your home.
Swap Out Existing Furniture
Your kitchen table may have seen better days, or maybe you’re just in need of something else. Consider visiting garage sales or thrift stores for an update to your kitchen. You can change the look yourself with a custom chalk paint job or vintage seating to create a modern look à la grandmillennial style. The best thing is you do not have to spend a ton to bring warmth into your kitchen and change your style.
A Few Last Thoughts
Kitchen renovations do not have to be massive undertakings. Many people hear the word renovation and immediately think they’re ripping things out and rebuilding various other elements. That does not have to be the case. Doing a quick paint job, making simple fixture or countertop replacements, or putting up shelves can be enough to breathe new life into your kitchen. If you find yourself needing more storage, consider adding an island. Enhance the ambiance with a new light fixture, and upcycle vintage furniture to make your kitchen a room you want to spend time in.
