Budget Kitchen Remodel Ideas for a Dreamy Kitchen Update
It’s time for a change.
Remodeling an outdated kitchen can quickly become an expensive and time-consuming project, but every family deserves a kitchen they can enjoy together. Fortunately, there are plenty of small projects you can take on that will make a big impact on your kitchen, without going over budget. We’ve got you covered with these 14 budget kitchen remodel ideas!
Tip!
To get to know the basics before getting started on your next project, check out our guide on How to Remodel a Kitchen.
1. Upgrade Appliances Piece-By-Piece
If possible, spare a portion of your budget for at least one major appliance update. This way you can choose future appliance updates that match the first one and plan the rest of your renovation projects to match with your appliances. Nothing is worse than refreshing your kitchen color palette only to find the perfect refrigerator on sale that totally clashes with your space. Start with the appliance that needs to be updated the most and slowly upgrade the rest when you have the funds to do so.
Tip!
Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can help you save money on electricity bills in the long run – so working updated appliances into your budget is totally worth it if yours are outdated!
2. Spring for a Shiny New Faucet
Even when updating the entire kitchen sink isn’t in the budget, indulging in a few small updates can make a big difference. Start with a shiny new faucet that matches your cabinet hardware. If budget allows, give yourself some nice-to-have updates like matching kitchen sink accessories including sink grids, soap dispensers, rinse baskets, and a side sprayer.
While updating kitchen cabinets can quickly become expensive, sometimes all it takes for a total transformation is the right cabinet hardware. Quickly bring your kitchen cabinets into the current decade simply by switching out the cabinet and drawer pulls and knobs. If you really want to create a unique kitchen aesthetic, choose from novelty knob options like honeybees, flowers, crystals, and other shapes.
Is your vision of gorgeous kitchen tiles butting heads with your budget constraints? There are budget-friendly kitchen tile options for you to consider, such as easy-to-install peel-and- stick tile. This is an affordable option that you can easily install without the need to hire help or purchase extra supplies like mortar, grout, and tile cutters. If you do want to go with traditional tiles, use them for a small area like the backsplash behind the cooktop or sink and then pick a matching paint color for the rest of the walls.
Revamp kitchen walls with patterned or textured wallpaper. Extend the wallpaper of your choice from the top of the backsplash to the ceiling and on other kitchen walls. Save on time and supplies with peel-and-stick wallpaper options – simply peel off the back and apply to the wall.
Updating light switches and switch plates is a small project that can make a big impact on your kitchen. Add a dimmer to your kitchen to easily adjust the lighting and atmosphere as needed. Upgrade to smart-enabled light switches to be able to control lighting right from your phone. Change switch plates to seamlessly match with kitchen hardware, faucets, and appliances.
Refresh light fixtures to reflect your kitchen style without going over budget. Simply changing the main light fixtures – especially pendants, track lights, or chandeliers – can help change the entire style and aesthetic of your kitchen. Go with sleek dome pendant lights for a modern look, a traditional wagon wheel chandelier for a rustic look, or glass shade fixtures for a neutral aesthetic that will go with many styles. While ceiling lighting comes in a wide range of options, finding stylish fixtures under $200 is very doable.
If a DIY project isn’t in the budget right now, you can revamp your kitchen with a total overhaul of old kitchen linens. Switch out window treatments to match your desired color palette and kitchen style. Invest in some fresh new dish towels, so you can proudly display them next to the sink for easy access. If you dine in your kitchen, add some major color and style to your space with a new tablecloth, runner, placemats, or reusable cloth napkins.
Ever wish you had more counterspace? Easily boost your surface space by adding a beautiful (and budget-friendly) freestanding kitchen island - no contractors required! Choose a kitchen island that can be delivered to your home and easily assembled by you. If you have a smaller space or want to have the option of moving things around, choose an island with wheels. With a kitchen island, you can gain more storage space, cabinets, and drawers as well.
Boost your kitchen style by upgrading your bar stools or kitchen dining chairs. Choose upholstered seating to add pops of color, wood seating for a rustic vibe, or sleek metal for modern-style stools. Be sure to choose the right size stools for your breakfast bar with our Bar Stool Dimensions guide.
Simply getting kitchen clutter under control can make you feel like you’ve completely remodeled your space without having to spend a lot of money. Consider pantry cabinets, food storage containers, cabinet organization, and drawer organizers to keep every nook and cranny in order.
Tip!
Learn more about How to Organize a Kitchen with our helpful guide.
12. Replace Your Pantry Door
If you already have a walk-in pantry, give it a glow-up with a brand new pantry door. This can make a big impact on your entire kitchen. Choose from glass doors, sliding barn doors, bi-fold doors, or even saloon doors to get your desired look. For an even smaller project that still makes a big impact, try changing out your current pantry door hardware for something a little fancier.
Upgrade your kitchen flooring without investing in new hardwood or tiling by introducing a stylish area rug. The right rug will complement your colorful kitchen palette or add a pop of color to your neutral space. Go for a washable rug since kitchens are prone to messes and spills. Simply throw your rug in the wash when it needs a quick refresh, rather than having to break out the carpet cleaner.
Tip!
Sold on this idea? Here’s everything you need to know about How to Care for Your Washable Rugs.
14. Create Luxury With Shiny New Cookware
Give your kitchen a flashy upgrade, no tools required, by updating your old cookware set. Even though this makes no permanent change to your kitchen, a shiny new set can elevate your kitchen aesthetic, especially if you store your cookware out in the open like on open shelves or from hooks. Choose a copper-colored set to add warmth to your color palette or sparkling silver for an icy accent. This is an easy and cost-effective upgrade that can help you start enjoying your kitchen more without major renovations.
