You’re finally ready to start that kitchen remodel that you’ve been dreaming about, but concerns about the economy are making you reconsider. You don’t need to delay a kitchen remodel for your St. Charles, IL home, however. It is important to understand that even though you may have to make some sacrifices, you can still build a kitchen that not only has beauty, but is functional as well. Here are some upgrades to consider that will give you the results you want without breaking the bank.
Repainted Cabinets
Your kitchen cabinets set the tone for the entire room, and updating them is a surefire way to increase the look and, ultimately, the value of your home. Since replacing cabinets can eat up a large part of your remodeling budget, consider painting instead of replacing. Painting your cabinets can save you up to half of what it would cost to purchase new cabinets, leaving you money for other upgrades. It is also much easier to find an affordable paint color that looks good, as opposed to opting for cheaper materials to replace your cabinets. Plus, the paint products that are available today are durable and beautiful, so they are easy to clean and will look fresh for years to come.
Replace the Hardware
Even if you don’t change your cabinets, consider adding or changing out the hardware. Simply changing the handles and knobs on your cabinets can give you a completely different look without breaking the bank. If you are having your cabinets repainted, you can wait to see the finished product before making your decision. Hardware can be an underrated asset to your kitchen remodeling project as it can not only improve the overall look of your kitchen, but the accessibility as well, so have some fun by purchasing a few options and bringing them home to see how they change the look of the room before you make your final decision.
Replace the Sink and Faucet
Let’s face it, our kitchen sinks get a lot of use and a lot of abuse. Foods that stain and hard water that sits around the drain and handles can all leave our sinks looking worn. In many cases you can replace your sink without replacing your countertops. Replacing the faucet can also be a valuable piece to your project to not only provide a cleaner finish, but improve the functionality of your kitchen as well by having an up to date appliance.
Replace the Lighting
Updating the lighting is another inexpensive way to make an impact while updating your kitchen. Find a fun, new fixture that complements your décor for an instant kitchen refresh. You can select a statement piece that acts as a focal point for your room, or go for something more subtle, depending on your aesthetic. Or if you do not want to add an entirely new fixture, you can purchase color changing LED light bulbs to replace your old ones, allowing you to have different colors for different occasions.
Another fun and inexpensive way to make an impact is by installing lighting below the cabinets, which is both practical and aesthetic. The soft light creates a welcoming, inviting atmosphere, and can make it easier to navigate your kitchen in the dark, eliminating the need to keep other lights on. It’s a great way to update the look of the kitchen without breaking the bank.
Install or Update the Backsplash
If you don’t currently have a backsplash, installing one can be an affordable option for your kitchen remodel in your St. Charles, IL home. Today’s tile comes in a variety of colors, shapes and styles to complement your desired design. You can also find tile that has the look of another material, such as metal, brick, concrete or stone.
Updating a current backsplash is another smart way to change the look of the kitchen. This might include changing out the current tile, or simply changing the grout. Doing this can add a completed feel to your kitchen that you may have been lacking before. However, If you still like your current backsplash, consider giving the grout a good cleaning.
Replace the Countertops
Updating your countertops doesn’t mean you have to select the most expensive materials. While granite and marble definitely make a statement, they may not be the most practical for your family and can leave less money for other upgrades.
You can get great looking, durable countertops for less money than their more expensive counterparts. For example, tile or solid surface countertops will hold up in even the busiest of households, and will stay looking like new. Concrete is also durable and resistant to heat and stains, and offers a different look than other materials, while still being friendlier to your pocket book. Laminate countertops are another option for a budget-friendly kitchen remodel in St. Charles, IL. This option is generally the least expensive, but can be dressed up with different finishing pieces, and offers a wide range of colors and looks to complement your overall kitchen design. Overall, it is important to assess your current living situation, as well as what your budget will allow to select the right countertop.
Remodeling your St. Charles, IL kitchen can come at a variety of price points, making it affordable to do even during a recession. You will want to carefully consider the functionality you want, along with the overall design aesthetic you are trying to achieve. Keeping your budget and current kitchen in mind, select those updates that are most needed and will make the most impact. Remember, that you can always make additional changes later on, so make sure you prioritize your “needs” first, before going into your “wants” category.
The design team at Whelan can sit down with you to present your options, and help you sort through which updates will give you the look and function you desire, while also providing the best return on investment.
Reach out to us at Whelan Builders and contact Ellie by phone at 630.356.4441 or by email ellie.whelanbuilders@gmail.com to start the conversation about your kitchen remodel in St Charles, IL,