The kitchen is the heart of the home and can go far in determining your home’s value. Barbara Corcoran, writing for MSN, says that there are a number ways to revitalize a kitchen from the simple to the expensive.(1) Given that most people don’t have the luxury of spending $50,000 or more on a complete kitchen overhaul, the following are some budget-minded renovations for today’s homeowners:
Use light colors — Lighter colors can make your kitchen seem bigger, something to consider especially if it faces north where natural light is a premium. Keep lighter colors in mind if you’re planning to put your home on the market.
Faces and handles — Replacing cabinets can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Instead, why not replace cabin faces and/or handles? New cabinet doors and updated handles can give your cabinets a “new look” without the attendant expense of a major renovation.
Let there be light — Kitchen lighting can set the mood for the room, a fairly inexpensive project especially if you are making improvements instead of wholesale changes. Better Homes & Gardens advises renovators to consider general, task, and mood lighting when making an upgrade.(2) Consider such options as fluorescent under cabinet lighting, LEDs, spotlights and more to give your kitchen a special look.
New appliances — All-new appliances can be costly, perhaps unnecessary. But, if you’re planning to make some changes Corcoran advises homeowners to look at stainless steel appliances with Miele, Viking and Subzero being the top brands. However, so-called “knock offs” from Frigidaire and Whirlpool can provide a great look for much less money.
Water sources — Move a sink and you could pay a mint to make that change. Instead, consider replacing the sink and changing out the faucet. HGTV.com notes the “…rise of modern, minimalist designs and utilitarian-chic faucets worthy of professional kitchens.” Nothing elaborate, but trendy is in.(3)
Fab flooring — If your flooring needs to be updated consider putting down stylish self adhesive tiles to give your kitchen a fresh look. Hire someone for the job and you could be looking at a pricey upgrade, so DIY!
Not every change suggested needs to be done in order to give your kitchen a fresh look. Carefully determine what project you would like to have done and move forward with gusto.
References
(1) Corcoran, Barbara. “Tips to renovate your kitchen on a budget .” TODAY Home & Garden. MSN, 21 09 2007. Web. 16 Aug 2010. <http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/20895851>.
(2) “A Bright Approach to Kitchen Lighting .” Better Homes & Gardens. BHG.com, n.d. Web. 16 Aug 2010. <http://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/lighting/planning/kitchen-lighting/>.
(3) Hennan, Leah. “Kitchen Faucet Trends .” HGTV Start at Home. HGTV.com, n.d. Web. 16 Aug 2010. <http://www.hgtv.com/kitchens/kitchen-faucet-trends/pictures/index.html>.
Adv. — Are you planning a home renovation? Check out LetsRenovate.com to discover the latest in home improvement trends.
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