Kitchen remodels, including the installation of countertops and backsplashes, can become quite expensive if you fail to plan ahead and think outside the box. Luckily, from finding cost-effective appliances to reusing existing items, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available to bring your dream kitchen to life.
Get ready to start saving some serious cash on achieving the perfect balance between style and functionality in your home’s most popular room! Our experts will share 12 easy tips and tricks that can help you complete your desired kitchen updates while still keeping costs low.
The first step in a kitchen remodel on a budget is setting a clear financial plan — it’s about understanding where every dollar will go. Start by researching average kitchen renovation costs in your area. Then, break down your budget into categories, including materials, labor, and miscellaneous expenses.
Remember that you’ll need to gather multiple quotes from different suppliers. This is essential for making informed decisions. Getting a cost breakdown from each supplier will help you to understand where the money is being spent and where you can save. Moreover, if you’re unsure how to allocate your budget efficiently, consulting an interior designer can help you prioritize spending and avoid expensive mistakes.
Pro Tip: Add a 10-20% buffer to your budget for unexpected expenses. If you end up not needing it, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. If you do, you won’t be caught off guard.
One of the biggest money savers in any kitchen remodel is to work with your existing floor plan whenever possible. Avoid the temptation to relocate plumbing or change the footprint of your kitchen.
When working through kitchen renovation ideas, do your best to keep existing stoves and sinks in the same location, as moving pipes and drains can add around $2,000 to your renovation costs. Maintaining your current layout can streamline your process and allow you to allocate your budget to more impactful areas.
A DIY approach can significantly reduce labor costs when you want to remodel your kitchen and upgrade your decor. However, not all tasks should be tackled without professional expertise. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do yourself and when to hire a pro.
Tasks you can DIY:
Tasks you should hire a pro for:
Focus on projects within your skill level, and bring in professionals where precision and safety matter most. You don’t have to commit to an all-or-nothing approach; a well-balanced approach ensures you save money without compromising quality, making your remodeled kitchen both beautiful and built to last.
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel project, refreshing your kitchen cabinets can be a great way to save money while still achieving a fresh new look. Instead of completely replacing your cabinets, consider giving them a facelift with a fresh coat of paint or stain. This simple change can save a significant amount of money: painting existing kitchen cabinets often costs just $200−$600 versus $5,000+ for new cabinets.
Another option is to replace just the doors of your cabinet boxes or your cabinet pulls rather than the entire cabinet itself. This can be a cost-effective solution, particularly if the cabinets themselves are in good condition.
With a little creativity and outside-the-box thinking, you can save a ton of money without sacrificing style or functionality. For instance, you could use stunning quartz countertops for your cooking and preparation areas, while using a less expensive material like butcher block or laminate countertops for areas that won’t see as much wear and tear. Mixing new countertops will not only help you save money on your kitchen remodeling project but also add some visual interest to your kitchen design.
If you’re considering a kitchen remodel project, don’t overlook the option of mixing countertop materials. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to add character to your kitchen and save money at the same time.
Looking for inspiration? Check out our latest project where we transformed a kitchen countertop in Park Ridge, featuring a stunning example of a trendy Chicago kitchen design. See how you can achieve a high-end look with our team!
While a unique backsplash may seem like an add-on versus a necessity, it can make for a really simple, affordable way to elevate your space. The backsplash can do a lot to change the look of your kitchen, whether with a bright pop of color or a unique tile formation, but either way, it won’t cost much.
In fact, the backsplash is often used on such a small scale, typically measuring around 10 to 40 square feet, so if you spend $5 per square foot, you’re only budgeting for around $200 in materials. Not much, right? That’s why a backsplash is one of our favorite ways to save money in the kitchen while still elevating your style.
Consider exploring second-hand options for appliances. Many retailers and big box stores sell slightly damaged models at 50%+ discounts. Don’t hesitate to buy stainless steel models with minor scratches — they can still look brand new. You can also look at marketplaces for pre-loved appliances to find hidden gems that offer great quality without the full retail price tag.
It’s important to take advantage of every opportunity to cut kitchen remodel costs without sacrificing quality. One such opportunity is opting for a cutout. By removing a section of wall between the kitchen and dining room, you can create an open and airy feel without the cost of a complete kitchen renovation.
A cutout also allows for better interaction between those cooking in the kitchen and those dining in the other room. It’s a win-win situation that not only looks great but saves you money, too.
We’ve already mentioned this tip, but it deserves a closer look because it’s one of the most efficient ways to transform your kitchen on a budget. Don’t underestimate a fresh coat of paint; it can instantly brighten up the space, cover imperfections, and give walls a modern feel — all at a fraction of the cost of other upgrades.
For the best results, choose high-quality, scrubbable paint designed for kitchens to resist moisture, stains, and grease. Lighter shades can make a small kitchen feel more open and airy, while darker hues can add depth and contrast to a bright space.
Plus, there are nearly endless paint colors and finishes to choose from, allowing you to personalize your space and create a unique atmosphere. By saving money on this aspect of your remodel, you can invest in other areas, such as new appliances or updated cabinets.
If you’re looking for an easy way to give your kitchen a fresh, updated look without breaking the bank, consider sprucing up the lighting. Swapping out any dated fixtures for brighter, more modern options can instantly enhance the overall atmosphere of the space.
Pendant lights over the kitchen island or sink can add a stylish touch, while under-cabinet lighting can improve visibility and ambiance. Additionally, installing dimmer switches allows you to control the lighting level according to your mood or needs.
When considering a kitchen remodel project, replacing upper cabinets with open shelves can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional cabinetry. By eliminating the need to replace hardware and cabinet doors, you can make significant savings on your overall remodeling budget.
Plus, open shelves provide an opportunity to showcase your favorite dishes and decorative items, adding a personalized touch to your kitchen design. Don’t be afraid to embrace this trend and add some open shelving to your next kitchen renovation project.
Updating the flooring in your kitchen is a great way to reduce costs on your remodeling project. Luckily for you, there are a plethora of flooring materials to choose from that will fit any kitchen renovation budget. Consider opting for vinyl or linoleum flooring for a cost-effective solution that is also durable and easy to maintain.
If you have a bit more money to spend, tile or hardwood flooring can add a touch of elegance to your kitchen while still being a cost-effective choice.
Overall, kitchen projects can be intimidating — especially daunting if you don’t know where to start. From saving on materials to splurging in comparison, be sure to focus on staying within your budget range while remodeling the kitchen of your dreams.
At Granite Selection in Illinois, we provide high-quality countertops that bring elegance and durability to any kitchen remodel. We treat all of our customers like family, helping them with every step of the process.
Whether you’re upgrading to sleek quartz, classic granite, or a budget-friendly option that mimics luxury materials, we help you achieve a stylish, remodeled kitchen without overspending — contact us today to find the perfect fit for your space and budget!
Do you have questions about granite or quartz countertops in Chicago?
Request a free consultation or visit our office.
