How to Redesign a Kitchen Inexpensively
A small budget for a kitchen redesign requires careful planning and resourceful uses of old and new materials. Whether you want to gut your kitchen and start from scratch or simply make a few design changes, make a clear plan before you begin work. Knowing exactly what you're going to do in the kitchen helps you keep the budget in check and the project on track. Most home improvement projects go over budget, so plan for unexpected expenses. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Calculate the amount of money available for the kitchen remodeling project. Use this number as a guide as you plan the design.
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Assess the current layout of the kitchen. Note what works well and which areas don't function well. Decide which elements you can reuse and which need replacement.
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Measure the room. Sketch the room on a piece of grid paper using the measurements as a guide for a scale drawing. Add any permanent fixtures such as doors or windows. Also note current lighting fixtures and electrical outlets.
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Mark the location of the major kitchen appliances on the drawing. The stove, refrigerator and sink are typically set up in a triangle arrangement for easy access to all three as you cook. Dishwashers are typically next to the sink. Consider the location of the plumbing and fuel source for the current oven. Relocating these items adds to the cost of the project.
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Sketch in the kitchen cabinets on the drawing. Note the length of each section of cupboards. A new coat of paint or stain can update your current cabinets inexpensively. If you're buying new, consider purchasing unfinished cabinets to save money.
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Decide if the current lighting is bright enough for the area. Replace existing light fixtures or add new fixtures for more light.
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Assess your flooring to determine if it needs replacing. Cleaning up your existing flooring might make it look good enough. If you do replace the flooring, tile and laminate flooring are inexpensive options.
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Choose a color for the walls. A new coat of paint is an inexpensive way to give a room a makeover.
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Add inexpensive kitchen wall decor to finish off the look.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for a Habitat for Humanity ReStore in your city. These sell donated home improvement items for less than retail. You might find flooring, a new lighting fixture or even cabinets that fit your kitchen redesign while keeping the budget low.
