Kitchen remodeling can quickly eat up a household budget, but experts suggest starting with clear goals and a firm game plan. Ornate moldings and pilasters, for example, can push costs up, while keeping existing piping and plumbing can cut expenses significantly.
Using pegboard on an empty wall frees up cabinet space for teacups and mugs, while eliminating the need for dusting. Other inexpensive updates include:
Cabinets
Cabinets are a big ticket item for any kitchen remodel, and it’s important to set clear goals from the start. Options include refinishing, painting or staining existing cabinets to freshen the color and update the look, or replacing them with new custom or semi-custom cabinetry.
Refacing cabinets is a less expensive alternative to replacing them. This involves adhering an adhesive-backed veneer to the face frames and drawer fronts, and can be done by DIYers or hired professionals.
Think about the storage you need for pots and pans, dishes, spices, food prep items and trash cans. Then, calculate the volume of your current space to ensure your new design fits the same amount. Also, plan for adequate lighting in the cabinet spaces you use most.
Countertops
Kitchen countertops can add a unique, customized style to your home and are an important element in your kitchen’s design. There are many types of countertops, from natural stone to laminate, with different finishes and price ranges. Choosing the best counters for your project requires careful consideration of color, cost, durability and maintenance.
Laminate countertops are the most budget-friendly option and offer a wide selection of colors and patterns. However, the material’s composition (sheets of material glued together) makes it susceptible to damage from heat and moisture.
Concrete counters offer a unique look for kitchen styles from farmhouse to industrial. Its cool gray tone can be tinted with food-safe colors and poured to accommodate unique shapes. Soapstone is bacteria-resistant and offers dramatic gray tones with subtle veining.
Flooring
Kitchen floors take a beating. They must be durable, able to handle moisture and staining, and easy to clean. Many types of flooring require professional installation. Tile, laminate, vinyl, and engineered wood are the most common kitchen flooring options.
If you’re looking to add character, choose natural wood flooring, such as reclaimed hardwoods. They give the kitchen a rustic feel and tell a story of the home’s history.
Hardwoods are expensive, but they’re also highly durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. If you’re on a budget, consider bamboo flooring or luxury vinyl plank (LVT) with a wood-look finish. These are less expensive than solid wood and feel like real hardwood, but they’re easier to maintain. Ideally, flooring should be installed before cabinets are measured and fabricated.
Appliances
A kitchen remodel can include replacing appliances, and upgrading to newer models can improve efficiency and performance. But appliance trends come and go, much like paint colors or denim styles, so it’s important to balance style preferences with practical needs and budgetary constraints.
Considering how your family uses the kitchen can help you determine what features are worth investing in. For example, if you entertain frequently, consider installing a warming drawer or ice maker to streamline prep time. Or if you’re always running out of room for cookware, a cabinet door-mounted pantry can keep dishes within reach.
Adding luxury appliances can transform your Roswell kitchen into a culinary haven. Choose a brand that offers superior quality and advanced technology for the best results. For an even more streamlined look, opt for panel ready appliances that allow you to add a custom front to match the rest of the cabinetry.
Lighting
Lighting is an often overlooked aspect of kitchen remodeling projects, but it has a big impact on both functionality and aesthetics. Adding a blend of ambient, task and accent lighting can elevate your kitchen into a beautiful space that reflects your style and personality.
For example, you may want to consider recessed lighting for general illumination or pendant lights to add flair and style to kitchen islands and dining areas. You can also choose to have dimmer switches installed for changing ambiance as your kitchen uses change throughout the day.