Updating Your Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank

Updating Your Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank

Most people at one time or another would like to redecorate their kitchen. Unfortunately, many do not have the funds available to make the changes they desire. However, there are ways to update the look of your kitchen without having to apply for a major loan. Actually, you don't need a designer or big bucks to make these changes. All you need is a little elbow grease and some creativity.

Painting Walls and Cabinets

One of the easiest and cost-effective ways to make changes to your kitchen is to paint it. Use light colors like white, pale yellow or almond to open up your space or brighten a darker kitchen. Mix and match jewel-tone colors or opt for a monochromatic look. Cabinets can also be painted to refresh your kitchen. Spruce up dated wood cabinets by painting them white, choose black for a look that's sleek and modern, or paint the cabinets bright colors to go with whatever color scheme or decor you have in mind. You can also replace the inside of your cabinets with lattice door inserts for a textured look. Additionally, the inside panels can be replaced with clear glass to display your favorite dishes and glassware, frosted glass or chicken wire behind glass to hide clutter or fabric hung from small curtain rods behind the glass for a country feel.

Cabinet Hardware

Changing the cabinet hardware is another way to update the look of your kitchen. Kitchen knobs are now available in so many different designs, shapes, colors, sizes and textures, there's definitely something out there for every taste and style. From the very simple and traditional solid brass to semi-precious metals and stones, today's cabinet knobs make a large impression. Choose from designs that have their roots in early American and European heritage, or find knobs that express your individuality and celebrate your hobbies and interests. Many of the knobs available have matching pulls, bin pulls and hinge plates so you can create a total look for your cabinets, drawers and even furniture. The selection is so vast, you're sure to find something that makes your own special statement.

Appliance Panels

Do you have appliances you'd love to replace, but just can't at the moment? If you have always loved the look of a suite of stainless steel appliances in your kitchen, now you can have that look. You can purchase appliance panels and trim kits that will make your old appliances look fresh and new. Designer colors, personalized bar designs, sports designs and even chalkboard panels are available to coordinate non-matching appliances or to make your dishwasher, compactor and refrigerator look less humdrum.

Countertops

Update your work surface area with new countertops. Kitchen countertops come in a variety of materials, like ceramic tile, plastic laminate, stainless steel, wood, stone and solid surface. Each surface has its benefits. Choosing the right surface for you will mean deciding which material best fits your maintenance style and your budget. If replacing the whole countertop is too cost-prohibitive, consider replacing sections of your counter, or just replace the backsplash.

Sinks and Faucets

Another approach to creating a fresh look in your kitchen is to put in a new sink and faucet. Kitchen sinks are available in stainless steel, porcelain and cast iron. You can choose a traditional single bowl sink or opt for a double or triple bowl sink to increase efficiency. A self-rimming sink is easier to install, as it just drops into the existing hole and has an outside rim that sits on top of the counter. An undermount sink makes wiping the counter a snap because its rim sits underneath the counter for a smooth line. The type of faucet you choose will depend on what style sink you have as well as how you plan to use it, If you frequently fill large pots or buckets from your kitchen sink, you may want a faucet with a high arch. Faucets come in many shapes, sizes and finishes, so it may take some time to find what you want.

Kitchen Islands and Kitchen Carts

If you're looking to gain workspace and storage space, consider adding a kitchen island or cart. A kitchen island will provide a work area that is stationary, so it stays in one place in your kitchen. Kitchen islands are usually larger, and work well in open kitchens. Kitchen carts are best utilized in smaller kitchens where space is at a minimum. They are usually on casters, which allow you to move the carts wherever you need them, but the casters also lock to stabilize your workspace when necessary. Both the kitchen islands and kitchen carts include drawers and shelving to store all those items you need to have on hand. There are many different types of kitchen islands and kitchen carts available, so if you're looking for an alternative way to add space, the kitchen island or kitchen cart is a great way to go. Refurbishing your kitchen doesn't have to break the bank. We've illustrated a few ideas that can change the look of your kitchen without doing major work, but can have the same effect. Choose one or two of these ideas or use all of them to create the kitchen of your dreams.

For more information, visit KitchenSource.com/kitchen-remodeling/ . A family-owned and run business since 1996 and a distinguished Top-500 Internet Retailer. KitchenSource.com is a one-stop shop for kitchen and bathroom accessories, helping to create a comfortable and elegant home.

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