Five Easy, Yet Dramatic Ways You Can Remodel An Outdated Kitchen Without Breaking The Bank
If you are in the mood to remodel your kitchen, there are many projects that will totally reshape its appearance at a reasonable cost. Below are a few of these project ideas and how to update the look of your kitchen without breaking your bank account.
Remove Upper Cabinets
Most kitchens are fitted with lower and upper cabinets, but there is no rule saying you must have both, or either, for that matter. Knowing that gives you the freedom to remove bulky, cumbersome cabinets that suck the space from your kitchen and give it a closed-in feel.
With that in mind, one way to accomplish the task of opening up your kitchen is to rip out upper cabinets and replace them using wall-mounted shelving. This will eliminate cramped overhead spaces and create an airy, freer environment.
When installing shelves, begin by placing metal shelf brackets that match updated hardware designs in color and shape. Next, install shelves that match the overall look of your updated kitchen. One way that you can mesh with the overall look is by applying matching laminate to the tops, sides, and bottoms of wood shelf boards. If you use the same laminate pattern that you used on your new counters, then you will be able to achieve a custom look that will truly set your kitchen apart.
New Hardware Pulls, Hinges, and Slides
Replacing outdated hardware is probably the easiest way to give your kitchen an update. Old hardware is easily and quickly removed, and new hardware can often be installed with a single screw.
When replacing hardware, don't be afraid to try something different. For example, use trendy, bright colors for drawer pulls to add extra pop to your kitchen's visual appeal. Or, install hardware with patterned metal surfaces for a more subtle, but still fresh, look.
Create a Tile Back Splash
Many older kitchens contain flat, boring laminate back splashes, so a new tile back splash will immediately and radically change the appearance of your counter area. Like changing hardware, this is another quick way to breathe new life into your kitchen's appearance. Individual tile pieces can be crafted into an infinite number of designs and color combinations; all it takes is an imaginative pattern to make your tile back splash into a work of practical art.
Indeed, a tile back splash is as practical as it is decorative. Tile back splashes are resistant to staining and are quickly and easily cleaned with a simple wipe down. Tile will successfully resist use, and some abuse, and will remain intact for many years to come.
Install a Laminate Counter with Decorative Edges
Laminate counters have come a long way since the early days, and today's laminate can be obtained in a huge variety of patterns and colors. In addition, laminate is now available that mimics more expensive stone patterns, such as granite or marble.
Combine the faux stone colors and patterns with decorative edges, and it is possible for installers to make a laminate counter that appears nearly the same as one made from natural stone material. All it takes is someone with the skills to cut and shape laminate to match patterned edges, and you will have the look of stone with the cost and convenience of laminate.
Paint Stained Cabinets
Stained cabinets can be beautiful, but they also can really date a kitchen and prevent it from "moving forward." The good news is that stained cabinets can be painted in any color you wish.
Paints are available that can be applied to stained finishes, and primers can also be used to lay down a preparatory coat if necessary. The bottom line is you don't need to be constrained by stained woods or feel that you have to replace expensive cabinetry to get an updated kitchen.
For more information and ideas for kitchen remodeling projects, contact a professional remodeling company in your area, such as Ellis Homes of KC.