Kitchen Remodeling on a Budget

Kitchen Remodeling on a Budget

1. Paint and glaze existing kitchen cabinets.
   
   For best do-it-yourself results, don't skimp on prep work. Use a high-quality, 100-percent-acrylic finish for the base (oil yellows).
2. Embrace the furniture look.
   
   Try kitchen islands in colors that contrast with a sleek countertop.
3. Install stone tile.
   
   A stone-tile countertop costs a fraction of solid stone. Use large tiles and keep the grout lines skinny and dark.
4. Splurge on a focal point.
   
   A pretty sink and faucet or a tile mural above a range can dress up an entire wall.
5. Shop, shop, shop.
   
   The Internet is a great source for bargains. Most big-box stores will special-order just about anything from top manufacturers at below list price.
6. Choose pro-style appliances.
   
   Professional-look stainless-steel ranges offer high style but cost far less than their luxury counterparts. And they don't need high-end exhaust fans.
7. Mimic a built-in fridge.
   
   Surround a freestanding refrigerator with wood walls and a deep upper cabinet (check fridge ventilation needs first).
8. Consider RTA cabinets.
   
   Many ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets are well made and far less costly than their semicustom counterparts.