10 Creative Ways to Save on Your Kitchen Renovation
Updated: Nov. 29, 2022A kitchen renovation isn't typically inexpensive—but it can be with these creative ideas!
Repaint Your Cabinetry
One of the first things you may want to renovate in your kitchen are those outdated cabinets. If you’re on a budget, however, you might be better off simply giving them a face lift. If your kitchen renovation will entail new flooring, a backsplash and countertop, be sure you choose those first before painting your cabinets!
Upgrade Your Kitchen Sink
Spruce up your kitchen by picking just a few things to upgrade, especially ones you use the most, like your kitchen sink, instead of ones that are more for looks than anything else, like expensive countertops or tile. A new stainless steel sink and chrome faucet is an easy swap, so long as you choose a new sink that’s the same size as the old one, otherwise you’ll have to cut a larger hole in the countertop. Here’s everything you need to know to make the sink and faucet swap yourself, as well as three other easy kitchen upgrades.
Mix Countertop Materials
It’s no secret a solid marble or granite countertop is a pricey upgrade, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely cut out such luxuries. If you want to incorporate some pricey countertop materials, use them in sections, and then use laminate or another less-expensive material for the rest of the surface. One way to do this is to use more expensive stone on part of an island countertop and less-expensive material on the other work surfaces.
Photo: Courtesy of Jeff Herr/Clairemont Whole House Renovation
Add a Backsplash
Making a new backsplash a priority for your kitchen renovation makes sense. Why? Not only can a backsplash make a big difference in the look or your kitchen, but due to its relatively small scale, with the average backsplash measuring between 10 and 40 square feet, even if you spend $5 per square foot, you’ll only be dishing out $200 for materials. Here’s how to tile a DIY backsplash.
Choose Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets
If your cabinets are in rough shape and need replacing, but your budget doesn’t allow for custom, ready-to-assemble (RTA) is a good option. RTA or semi-custom cabinets can be half the cost of full-on custom cabinets depending on the material, style and cost of installation. Here’s where DIY can really help you save big! Here’s how to install kitchen cabinets.
Go With Open Shelving Where You Can
Try adding a fresh face to your kitchen by using open shelving. It can save a few thousand dollars (doors are expensive!), while adding modern style to your space. If you’re not sure you want to go full open kitchen, you can install half open shelving and half cabinets, placing mismatched dishes behind closed doors and featuring more decorative items out in the open. Check out these 12 ideas for organizing with open shelving.
Don’t Move Your Appliances
If you’re trying to save money on your kitchen renovation, it’s ill-advised to move the mechanics and electrical for appliances. It may also require you to cut into the ceiling, floor and walls to expose plumbing and electrical components. You’re better off working with the layout you have! Check out these 10 before and after kitchen makeovers you can do in a weekend.
Opt for a Cutout
If you want s major design renovation look without a big price tag, try opening the space between the kitchen and your family room by choosing a cutout as opposed to removing the whole wall. While you’ll still need to check for electrical and plumbing components, you’ll surely save major bucks because the floor and ceiling won’t have to be repaired. Here’s how to remove a wall and other demolition tips.
Photo: Courtesy of Case Design/Remodeling, Inc.
Try Track Lighting
To spruce up your kitchen lighting without breaking the bank, you may want to try track lighting instead of recessed lighting. The latter requires cutting holes into the ceiling, electrical wiring and various other costs for repairing the ceiling. Recessed lighting can cost a total of $100 to $150 for just a single light! Track lighting is a quick, cost-effective way to give your kitchen more light as well as ambient lighting when placed on a dimmer.
Go Thrifting
Recycling materials is one surefire way to cut kitchen renovation costs. Check to see if you have a Habitat for Humanity ReStore in your area. If so, stop by and see if they have anything can be used for your remodel. You can also ask local contractors and builders if they’re donating or selling their overstock at a discount.
Photo: Courtesy of Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity