How to Redo Your Kitchen Yourself

Change a few aspects of your kitchen to modernize its look.

Remodeling your kitchen doesn't have to be an expensive project that you pay someone else thousands of dollars to complete. It's possible to give your kitchen a complete overhaul, on your own, to suit your personal tastes and preferences. Whether you decide to modify just one or two focal points of the space, such as the counters or cupboards, or everything from the walls to the floors and appliances, you'll have a sense of accomplishment knowing that you took the time to customize it yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Paint/wallpaper

Instructions

1. Start with the basics: wall color. The color of the walls sets the whole tone for the room. Add a little paint to change the shade of the current color or do a complete overhaul and go from dark to light or light to dark. Select a semigloss or glossy paint and add a border around the room for a little detail that isn't too dominating but still makes a statement. Lighter colors combined with natural light will brighten the room.

2. Change the floors. Lay new tile down or, if you're on an extremely limited budget, go with cheap peel-and-stick flooring, which is available in multiple colors and patterns. Lay tiles diagonally instead of in a square layout to change the pattern's flow.

3. Modify the cupboards: Remove the cupboards completely and install new ones for a complete overhaul; or, if you're seeking only a minor change, paint or stain your current cupboards or change the handles or knobs.

4. Replace countertops or resurface them. You can change both the color and the feel of the counters at the same time. The counters in any kitchen are a gathering space, a work space and a visual focal point. Simply replacing your countertops with a material and color substantially different from the existing style will bring a kitchen new life.

5. Upgrade your appliances. If your appliances are years old or have been moved from one place to another, they may not coordinate with each other or may be at the end of their lifespan. Purchase both large and small appliances in a single color to give your kitchen a smooth, coordinated appearance. You might also save on energy costs, too, since many new appliances are energy-efficiency certified. The most common colors include black, white, stainless steel, red and, increasingly, forest green.

6. Make a minor change in lighting. Add a ceiling fan light or change the bulbs to emit a different shade of light. A small chandelier over the eating area of an eat-in kitchen is an inviting and welcome change.

Tips & Warnings

• Stick with one brand name for appliances to get a uniform appearance.

• Check liquidation sales or outlets for the best deals on materials before you begin your remodel. You may go in an alternate direction than you originally planned due to cost considerations.

References

• Service Magic: Do It Yourself Kitchen Remodel
• DIY Life: Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Every Budget