10 Affordable Kitchen Remodel Trends for Any Budget

Here are some inexpensive remodeling ideas that can give a kitchen a high-budget look:

1. Cabinets are often the most expensive element of a kitchen remodel, but you can save money in many ways. Instead of replacing your cabinets, consider refinish them, a process that only replaces the doors and trim rather than the entire cabinet. Use glass on some cabinet doors, or paint or re-stain your cabinets a different color.
2. Changing countertops can do wonders to refresh the look of a kitchen. If you’re in love with the look of solid granite but blanch at the price, consider granite tiles or another stone to simulate the look at a lower price.
3. Laminate countertops can now mimic more expensive materials, include a wide range of colors and textures, and come in a variety of edge shapes. Starting at around $25 per square foot, laminate is still the most affordable option.
4. Cheap dishwashers and refrigerators don’t have to look cheap. You can replace the fronts of some appliances with stainless steel to give them a more modern look. Some appliances also have removable panels that allow you to blend them in with the rest of the kitchen.
5. Recycling is more than just ecological; it is a great money saver. You can pull furniture from other rooms to serve as a cabinet or island. Discarded old doors can enclose a pantry or serve as a desk.
6. The burnished metal look so popular today can be found by repurposing vintage fixtures, and old farmhouse sinks can give your kitchen a unique look.
7. A fresh coat of paint can completely change the look of a room at minimal cost. Sometimes just updating the color of the trim makes a kitchen look fresh.
8. Backsplashes in bold patterns or colors can also be added easily and cheaply. Choose inexpensive tiles and hire a professional. All tiles look best when installed evenly and neatly.
9. Buy wine racks for a few dollars at thrift stores. When stained to match cabinetry, you can achieve the built-in look for a fraction of the cost.
10. Swap or add lighting. Replace outdated light fixtures with bright, modern ones to easily update the look. Buy large clearance racks for pieces that are late-season or floor models to save on the purchase price.