Are you trying to figure out the best ideas for updating a kitchen? Read this article to learn more about updating a kitchen on a budget.
Do you want to increase the resale value of your house? Are you unsure of how you can get the most bang for your buck?
Even if you don’t have plans to move for a while, some strategic updates to your kitchen could yield major returns. After all, the average ROI for a kitchen remodel is 83 percent!
If this appeals to you but your funds are limited, keep reading. Listed below are some great ideas that will help you with the process of updating a kitchen without going over budget.
1. Change the Lighting
Old light fixtures can easily date a kitchen (or any room for that matter). If it’s been a while since you’ve replaced the light fixtures in your kitchen, or if you still have the old ones that came with the house when you bought it, investing in some upgrades is a great starting point.
Replacing one or two light fixtures shouldn’t set you back too much, especially if you shop sales and look online for discounted options. You won’t believe how much better and brighter your kitchen looks once the replacement is complete, though.
2. Install New Hardware
Another easy way to refresh your kitchen is to install new hardware. Get rid of old, outdated drawer and cabinet handles and replace them with something new and shiny (or matte, if that’s more your style).
Even if you don’t do anything else to your kitchen drawers and cabinets, this simple swap can cause them to look brand new. Many great-looking hardware pieces cost less than $10, so you don’t have to worry about spending a fortune, either.
3. Repaint Your Cabinets
If you want to take things a step further with your cabinets (but can’t afford a total replacement), consider repainting or refinishing them. This allows you to work with what you have and revitalize your kitchen for a much lower price than what a replacement would cost.
You could sand them down and restain them or add a fresh coat of paint to brighten up your kitchen. Look for inspiration online or in magazines to see what color will look best.
4. Increase Your Storage Space
Everyone wants more storage space, especially in the kitchen. Both you and the future buyers of your house will love the fact that you have more places to put things.
Look for ways to increase your storage, such as installing floating shelves above the sink or near the pantry. Hanging up some hooks gives you more places to store aprons, towels, and other frequently used items, too.
You can also look into temporary ways to increase storage, such as adding a rolling cart near your kitchen island.
5. Shop at Antique and Thrift Stores
If you want to update your kitchen with new accessories or a few new pieces of decor, consider shopping at antique stores or thrift stores first.
You can find some real gems at these places, and they often cost a fraction of what you’d pay in a regular retail store. You’ll also get the added satisfaction of knowing you’re getting a unique piece that none of your friends will have in their kitchens.
6. Update Your Backsplash
Adding a pop of color helps to bring new life into an old kitchen. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to do this is by updating your backsplash.
Whether you simply repaint the area or add new tiles, you can give your kitchen a new look without spending a ton of money. You could even use a peel-and-stick backsplash if you don’t want to worry about choosing and arranging tiles (or paying someone else to do it for you).
7. Resurface the Countertops
If you have laminate countertops in your kitchen, consider resurfacing them. This can be an especially good decision if your countertops are looking worn out or haven’t been replaced in a long time (or ever).
In most cases, it costs around two hundred dollars to resurface laminate countertops and leave them looking shiny and brand new. It’ll make a big difference to the overall look of your kitchen, though, and will be much more affordable than installing all-new countertops.
8. Freshen Up the Sink
Did you know that you can repaint a sink? If your sink is stained or faded, consider repainting it.
With a little sandpaper and spray paint, you can get a sink that looks good at new for less than $10. Who wouldn’t want to give this trick a try?
9. Replace Outlet Covers
In addition to replacing the hardware in your kitchen, consider replacing the outlet covers as well. Old, faded outlet covers can make your kitchen look drab and dingy.
Replacing them with something new will make a big difference. There’s lots of room to express yourself, too. Look for patterned outlet covers or covers that come in a fun color to see how they liven up the room.
If you want to save even more money, you could remove your outlet covers and decorate them yourself with paint or leftover wallpaper.
10. Use Some Chalkboard Paint
Another fun way to revive your kitchen cabinets is to paint them with chalkboard paint. Consider using chalkboard paint on a few of your cabinets so you can leave messages for your loved ones or detail what’s inside.
You could use chalkboard paint on your pantry door as well so your kids have somewhere to play while you cook their dinner. This paint is affordable and easy to apply, but it can make any room feel a little more special.
Start Updating a Kitchen Today
The idea of updating a kitchen might seem daunting at first, especially if funds are limited. The good news, though, is that there are plenty of strategies you can use to keep costs low while still getting a finished kitchen that you’ll love.
Start with the 10 tips outlined above. You’ll be amazed at how much you can get done even when you have a limited budget.
Don’t forget to visit the Kitchen section of our site today for more advice and inspiration.