Alright, let’s get straight to the point (or in this case, numbers). The average cost for a kitchen remodel in 2020 is typically around $20,000, while larger remodeling projects could quickly go up to $30,000 or more. If you’re lucky, a small kitchen remodel could range between $10,000 to $15,000.
However, there is a way to have your dream kitchen at a fraction of the cost. While there is no magic formula for a kitchen remodeling project, there are smart ways to cut costs to help you stay in budget for your dream kitchen remodeling project.
via cocokelley.com and stylecarrot.com
1 | Keep the Layout
The most valuable kitchen design tip is keeping your kitchen layout as it is. Working with what you have allows you to spend your dollars on other major expenses like upgrades for cabinets, countertops, or appliances.
With the extra cash saved, you can consider options to update the look of your kitchen with stylish hardware and a backsplash to complete your kitchen. Not to mention, it’s also a lot less stressful when you don’t have to worry about changing your kitchen layout and flooring on top of the already monumental task of a kitchen remodeling project.
Genius Design Tip: Work with what you’ve got by keeping the current layout you have.
via designsponge.com and cocokelley.com
2 | The Art of Cabinetry and Shelves
What’s the first thing anyone sees when walking into a kitchen? The cabinets, of course! Cabinets, appliances, walls, and floors make up the majority of the surfaces in a kitchen. So naturally, cabinets and countertops are the most talked about features of the kitchen. We all know that one person who raves about her marble countertops. We usually find ourselves admiring and complimenting it as well. It’s no wonder that real estate agents, homeowners, and buyers always emphasize the kitchen.
However, the numbers can add up if a cabinet re-do is part of the plan. Instead of wall cabinets, consider open shelves, which are less expensive and doesn’t compromise shelf space. Open shelves work for any size kitchen layout from efficient single wall or galley layouts to L-shapes and U-shapes or even spacious peninsula layouts.
Genius Design Tip: Go for sturdy shelves instead of wall cabinets to save some serious bucks and maximize space.
3 | Invest in an Island
No, not the tropical kind, but, maybe, you can save enough bucks for a private island. (If only, right?) Space permitting, investing in an island for your kitchen means you can have a versatile, and even mobile, multifunctional kitchen solution. Kitchen islands can be used as an additional countertop or tabletop for food preparation, storage, and even entertaining. I always find hors d’oeuvres and fruit punch bowls much more inviting on kitchen islands. Maybe it’s because kitchen islands are formal yet casual all at once, so it fits every occasion.
Genius Design Tip: Mobile kitchen islands can be very practical for small kitchens and useful for entertaining. Kitchen islands (whether mobile or stationary) can create interesting new spaces but is much more affordable than completely changing a kitchen layout.
4 | Choose Material Wisely
High-end marble countertops are expensive. As much as we would love to have natural marble, opt for a reasonably priced granite or quartz instead. These materials are durable and just as beautiful. Though granite and quartz can cost a few thousand dollars, they are much more affordable than marble and will last a long time, so you won’t have to replace them like laminates or solid surface countertops.
Another option to help you save big is to consider butcher block if you want a reliable countertop material. Just be prepared to keep up with wood treatment to maintain butcher blocks. Alternatively, stainless steel could be affordable with the right design. Stainless steel will scratch, so you’ll need to maintain it with a non-abrasive cleaner or baking soda paste.
Genius Design Tip: The best thing in life is having options! So do your research and compare different materials for their qualities or price points.
via vogue.com
5 | Skip Expensive Trends and DIY Instead
Trends come and go. Ideally, you want a gorgeous classic kitchen that’ll stay beautiful and elegant for years. There are plenty of ways to incorporate home decor trends like a trendy color or style for less money and commitment. For example, a DIY backsplash or wallpaper. You can switch up your backsplash or wallpaper easily to incorporate trends instead of changing your whole kitchen design.
Genius Design Tip: Go for a DIY area backsplash or wallpaper. Backsplashes and wallpapers are surface remodeling, which means you’ll save a lot of time and money by avoiding things like expensive layout changes.
6 | Keep Your Appliances
This last genius design tip ties right into the first one. Keep your layout and keep your appliances. Upgrading appliances makes sense if it’ll significantly make cooking easier. If your existing appliances are perfectly fine, why replace them? Appliances can blow up your wallet real quick. While appliance shopping is fun, and it’s easy to get lost in the trendiness, you have to honestly ask yourself whether you really need that new gadget?
Appliances for a full-kitchen can total up to $20,000, which is the average cost of a kitchen remodel in 2017. New appliances can easily double your budget. Remember, you’re aiming for the other end of the spectrum.
With these genius design tips, you should be ready to get started with your kitchen remodeling.
