The start of a new year is perfect for transforming your culinary space and enhancing your daily routines. If you’ve outgrown your kitchen and your heart longs for that inspiring aesthetics you’ve saved on your Pinterest board, it’s time to embark on the rewarding journey of remodelling your kitchen. This is especially true if your kitchen is falling apart, as you need to make this space as functional as possible.
Unfortunately, many homeowners are held back from starting a kitchen renovation due to the costs involved in such a project. But here’s the good news: kitchen renovations don’t have to break the bank! There are ways to save money on this project; if you don’t know how, you’re in the right place. This blog provides 6 tips on refreshing your kitchen on a budget. Let’s explore them below!
Paint kitchen cabinets
As mentioned earlier, there are small changes you can make to transform your kitchen, and they don’t cost as much as you think. For instance, if your kitchen cabinets are outdated, a lick of paint will do the trick, helping add a splash of colour to the room and make it look fresher. Just remember that cabinets generally require several coats of paint; it’s essential to prepare them in advance by sanding them down and eliminating dust and grime by washing them and then utilizing a primer or undercoat.
The type of paint should be suitable for cabinets, so make sure to check this aspect before getting the job done. Suppose your cabinets are made from laminate; seek a specialist multipurpose paint created for melamine, wood, and MDF. On the other hand, interior wood paint will be the ideal choice if the cabinets are made of wood veneer or solid wood.
Switch old cabinet doors with new ones
Suppose your cabinets are still functional, but you still want an upgrade. In this case, you can replace only the doors. The process is simple because kitchen units are available in standard sizes, providing ease of installation and ensuring compatibility. The width of base units is generally between 500 and 900 mm. It’s not recommended to buy doors from the same company where you got the cabinets in the first place because you won’t have much choice if you do so.
To avoid such a limitation, look for a reliable manufacturer that provides stunning, versatile options when it comes to kitchen cabinet doors, but make sure to double-check that the new doors you’re purchasing have compatible hinges and are the correct size. Investing in new cabinet doors will give your kitchen a fresh look while avoiding the hassle of a complete renovation.
Add a stylish splashback
Splashbacks are usually installed in areas where the walls are most susceptible to splashes, moisture and stains, like around the sink or above the hob. Besides serving as a protective barrier, they can be a stunning design feature in the kitchen and a focal point that draws interest immediately. There are different choices for stylish splashbacks, such as tiles, which are very popular. Metro tiles are timeless due to their clean and classic look, while mosaic tiles make for the perfect choice if you’re looking to add visual interest.
While it’s true that tiles can be quite expensive, the good news is that with a few tips, you can install them in your kitchen. For instance, you can use leftover tiles from a home improvement project or purchase discount tiles from a retailer. Then, you need to find a local tradesperson to help you get them installed. However, some budget-friendly alternatives to consider are aluminium composite, acrylic and PVC wallpaper murals.
Consider open shelving
Open shelving is a budget-friendly option to enhance your storage space and keep your worktops clean. They are especially suitable for small kitchens, helping open up the space. At the same time, they enable you to get creative with storage, which means you can combine decorative and functional items to create a stunning display that catches the eye. However, remember that open shelves require more cleaning and dusting in order to ensure that the kitchen grime is at bay, and it’s important to keep them organized to prevent them from looking messy. Of course, once you’ve installed the open shelving, it’s a good idea to style it in order to make it look beautiful and convenient. To do so, consider putting your stacks of bowls, plates, and rows of mugs and glasses in the centre and front, and create a cohesive look by arranging colour-coordinating dishes. Another excellent idea is to curate a collection of your favourite kitchen items or antiques for the top shelf and place them below your daily items, such as plates and glasses.
Make the most of lighting to set the ambience
Affordable kitchens don’t compromise on aesthetics – they make the most of the smallest changes to create the best look. For instance, one aspect that’s often overlooked is lighting, but it has massive potential to enhance the kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic on a budget. Suppose your room feels too dark, or you have a hard time seeing while cooking. In this case, adding energy-efficient LED lights can be a great solution. Alternatively, you can also install strip lighting under the cabinets. The right lighting also allows you to create the right ambience in the kitchen, so if you want to add depth or warmth to the space for dining and socializing, consider hanging pendant lights over the kitchen island or the table.
For an inviting glow, opt for a warm-coloured bulb. If possible, consider letting natural light in, as this is the most beautiful source of light and also the cheapest. You can maximize natural light with a window splashback, especially if the kitchen’s orientation means it looks out over a garden area, also allowing some greenery inside.
Hang some art
Who says artwork is only for gallery walls? Adding your favourite pieces into the kitchen can make a major difference to its aesthetics, brightening neutral décor and adding character. And it’s a cheap way to remodel your kitchen this year!
However, it’s essential to use artwork the right way, so start by considering the kitchen’s overall theme and style.
Whether you’re aiming for a cosy, rusting feel or a minimalist look, you need to think about this, as it will guide your choices in art pieces so that they complement the existing décor. Remember that the artwork’s size is very important: while a large statement piece can be used as a focal point, smaller pieces can add visual interest to the room. Make sure to consider the wall space available and balance the proportions properly.
The bottom line
If you’ve been dreaming about refreshing your kitchen, now is the right time to do so! With these budget-friendly tips, you can create a culinary space where you will love spending time, whether you’re preparing a delicious meal or making memories with loved ones.
Jessica has a flair for writing engaging blogs and articles. She enjoys reading and learning new things which enables her to write different topics and fields with ease. She also strives to break down complex concepts and make them easy for anybody to comprehend.
