Kitchens are one of the most expensive rooms to remodel. However, there are a few tricks to transforming your space without breaking the bank.
Start with a Big Picture Plan
Before you begin tackling the project, you should have a clear vision of what your ideal kitchen looks and functions like. This can help you budget your renovation and keep you on track throughout the process.
Create a List of Must-Haves and Wants
Before remodeling your kitchen, make a list of must-have items to incorporate into the new layout. These can include items like additional counter space, more cabinets, and a bigger sink. Creating a list helps you prioritize which items are most important and allows you to budget accordingly.
Look to Other Areas for Square Footage Additions
If your kitchen is small, try recapturing space from adjacent areas. This may be the best option for a cramped kitchen, since you can get more square footage at a much lower cost than building a room addition. For instance, you might be able to expand your kitchen by bumping out the wall between it and an adjacent hallway or by expanding the porch, chimney, or closet in your back yard.
Open Up the Floorplan
To make your kitchen feel more spacious, consider opening up your existing floor plan. This could be as simple as moving the sink and stove to an adjacent island or as elaborate as building a full wall, adding windows, or making other changes to the interior of your home.
Use a Temporary Kitchen
While you are getting your kitchen remodeled, set up a temporary kitchen in another part of the house. This will give you a place to cook and prepare meals during the renovation, while saving you money on food and supplies.
Design Your Own Cabinets
While reworking your kitchen, it is also a good idea to design and build your own cabinets. This can save you money on labor and ensure that your cabinets match the other finishes and fixtures in your kitchen.
Be sure to choose a cabinet line that is affordable, but still provides a high-quality finish and durability. For example, the Martha Stewart Living PureStyle line of cabinets offers a wide array of styles and features that can be personalized to your needs.
Invest in Storage and Details
A hutch with a drawer can function as a standalone cabinet that doubles as a handy reminder station, while a pullout pantry can increase your kitchen’s storage capacity by 50%. These small additions can have a huge impact on your kitchen’s efficiency and can greatly reduce the amount of time you spend searching for miscellaneous items in your cabinets.
Upgrade your Appliances
When updating your appliances, be sure to invest in energy- and space-saving models. These options can significantly reduce your energy bills and save you money in the long run.
Update your Fixtures and Lighting
A good designer can make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen. They can help you select the right fixtures, lighting, and flooring for your space.
A reputable St. Petersburg home remodeling company can guide you through the process of picking out the right materials for your kitchen and give you recommendations based on their experience with similar projects. Talk to them about your vision and let them help you select the perfect material, color, style, and finish for your space.