Despite what you may read in the trendiest kitchen design magazines, there are many ways in which kitchen renovations can be done on a smaller budget. Kitchen updates are a great way to maximize your sale value and by making small changes, such as a splash of colour, updating hardware & replacing the benchtop, this can greatly increase the value.
Small changes here and there will create a big effect on how your kitchen looks and how it appeals to buyers.
Replace the cabinet doors & fronts
Replacing old cabinetry is one of the best choices to make with a kitchen refresh, not only for appearance, but overall functionality and satisfaction with having up to date, modern equipment and new features. This will greatly change the whole look and feel of your kitchen.
White it out
Creating a white kitchen is greatly beneficial as not only will it always remain in style but it is marketable for when you decide to sell your home. White reflects lights and helps make a small kitchen appear more spacious. It also goes great with any type of colour you pair it with, such as a pop of colour on your splash back.
Change the benchtop
A new benchtop can completely change the look and feel of a kitchen and this is why replacing a benchtop has been such a popular method to adding value, and creating a stunning looking masterpiece in your home. If your benchtop is dark, looks dated or is in need of repair you can replace them for a very affordable price with maximum impact.
You can get a granite overlay over the top of your current benchtop for only a little more than formica or other products and this very quickly gives a modern look and feel.
Splash some colour
Small details can make a big difference. A neutral colour scheme for the majority of your kitchen, such as your white kitchen cabinetry, with the addition of splashes of colour makes a great impression. This provides warmth, personality and flair to your unique kitchen style.
Where and how you incorporate your colour can be as permanent as in the splashbacks or a statement oven, or as changeable as bright stools, a painted door or coloured light shades. Even incorporating the use of colour with your kettle, toaster or tea towels.
Replace the hardware
Another area of the kitchen you can easily update is the tapwares and sink. It is possible to locate very well priced hardwares either from direct importers or TradeMe. They are also available in many colors, and styles. Porcelain, stainless steel, and acrylic are the materials that are available for sinks.
People like shiny new things, new tapware and sinks are great for this.
Create an island
Another great budget kitchen renovation idea is to add a kitchen island. Kitchen islands are great for adding more counter space to the kitchen and provide a gathering place.
If you do not have enough money or space to add a permanent kitchen island, you might consider as an alternative getting a kitchen cart. A kitchen cart can have wheels for rolling around, as well as have drawers, shelves, and places to hang utensils. Because they are on wheels they can be cleared out the way and you can take it with you when you sell. Again TradeMe is a great source for these.
Create a splashback
If your kitchen renovation budget is so small that you can only afford to remodel a small area of your kitchen you might consider adding a kitchen splashback.
A new kitchen backsplash can really dress up a drab, uninspiring kitchen with a new sense of life. Kitchen backsplashes are available in so many different styles, colors, and materials. Modern materials used for splashbacks can include, glass, stainless steel, tiles and even wallpaper. The costs vary depending on the material you select but can be as low as a few hundred dollars.
Summary
So you can see that redecorating your kitchen can be a simple thing like changing the hardware on your existing cabinetry or painting the walls. Just one small change can do a lot to make your kitchen look brand new. For an example of these ideas being put into practice have a look at this post I did here on how to modernize a kitchen.
If you would like some personalized budget kitchen renovation ideas you might like to take advantage of my Property Presentation Plan. To further discuss this or to book in a time you can book online or call me on 021 85 84 83 or email jason.yianakis@harcourts.co.nz
