Kitchen Remodel : 5 ways to get the most out of a small budget
Times are tough and money is tight, but that doesn’t mean you have to put all your reno plans aside! Fear not, my friends – there are many ways to create your champagne dream home on a beer budget.
Here are 5 easy ways to update your kitchen on any type of (beer) budget:
#1. Paint.
Never underestimate the value of a nice big bucket of paint! The easiest way to make an impact in a space is with color – even if it’s a nice, easy neutral. The number one complaint we hear about kitchens is “we don’t like the wood cabinets, but we can’t bring ourselves to paint good wood.” REALLY?! If the wood was so good, you wouldn’t hate it! I mean, seriously. What kind of logic is that anyway? There are some great, affordable paints available these days. Behr at Home Depot starts at only $20/gal and Martha Stewart paints (my personal fave – great color, low price, low VOC) is right behind at $25/gal, available exclusively at Home Depot. Lowe’s also offers a great selection of colors in Valspar at a comparable price. Or, for a little bit more, you can go with Benjamin Moore’s Natura collection that offers a beautiful product with no VOC. Here are some fabulous photos of painted cabinets for inspiration:
via apartment therapy
via House Beautiful
via Apartment Therapy
via House Beautiful
#2. CHANGE is good! Replace that old hardware – and pronto! Nothin says lovin the 80’s like some wood and brass combo knobs. Swap those fuddy duds for some new shiny silver or brushed nickel knobs for an easy update. There are many different styles to choose from at many different price points to work with any budget.
via HGTV
#3. Shed some LIGHT! Replacing old, outdated lighting is usually a very simple fix. Most lighting kits come with easy to understand, often color coded instructions. First, turn off the power to be safe. Then, connect the black with the black, the white with the white, the copper with the copper and voila! A instant update! Lighting can make or break your space, so choose something that is consistent with your style – like the photo below – the lights blend perfectly with the rustic country aesthetic of the rest of the room:
via House Beautiful
Or, check out Jen’s post about kitchen lighting here for more ideas.
#4. Update your counter tops and/or your backsplash. There are many places to find a good deal on solid surfaces like granite and Silestone that will make a huge impact in your kitchen. Those of us who follow real estate know that nothing helps sell a house more than an updated kitchen and nothing helps sell a kitchen more than updated counter tops. Take a look at the non-commercial stores for better deals. These places tend to pop up along major highways and their signs usually just read, “GRANITE” instead of “Lowe’s” or “Home Depot.” But, be sure to do your home work; shop and compare to be sure you make an educated decision.
5. Finally – add color and personality with accessories. Rugs, vases, pots, plants – whatever tickles your fancy. You can find some great pieces at bargain prices at stores like Ross and TJ Maxx, Homegoods and Hobby Lobby or find really unique pieces on etsy. I good rule of thumb is to stick with a single color palette and be sure that is is represented in at least 3 different parts of the room to tie the whole space together visually. 
Orla Kiely : Kitchen
And that’s it! If you have more questions – send us a note and we’d love to help you make the most of your space and budget! Happy planning!