Can I get Everything on my Kitchen Remodel Wish List?
With so many options available for remodeling, it can be hard to know what decisions to make and if everything you want will even fit in your budget. When working with clients, I find it’s helpful to divide remodeling budgets into three different levels: Good, Better and Best.
Most of us would like to have an unlimited budget to spend in the remodeling of one of the most important areas of the house (if not the most), but in life, with realistic expectations on your needs, time available and resources, you can have a kitchen remodel you will be able to enjoy for years to come.
GOOD - Remodeling between $15,000 and $35,000On the “good” level of remodeling, you will need to stick with direct replacement. Consider using pre-fabricated cabinets in a stain or melamine finish, with an MDF box construction. At this price point, you probably won’t be able to add any cabinetry inserts. Consider replacing your laminate countertop with one of the cost effective granite tops and 4” backsplash. You may or may not need to keep your existing floor, but if you decide to change it, putting tile in your kitchen can be your best upgrade. Tile is the most resilient option and the easiest one to maintain for your kitchen floor. Price changes depending on several factors including size and availability so checking the specials and what's in stock in your local store can save you enough to upgrade to a better selection of tile. This can help you move those savings to your backsplash or faucet selection. Luxury Vinyl Tile can be another option that will get you a more natural look to your floors and provide some warmth and cushion to your feet, just keep an eye on pets and heavy traffic. Hardwood floors and large format tiles usually won't be options for you at this budget. Upgrade your cabinet hardware to brushed nickel or stainless to match your entry level set of stainless appliances. |
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BETTER - Remodeling between $35,000 and $65,000The “better” kitchen remodel upgrade would be to select semi-custom cabinetry. Semi-custom doesn’t mean expensive. It just means the cabinet line allows us to modify the depth or height of a few cabinets, to give you more options and flexibility. A semi-custom line offers numerous door styles, finishes, and the option to upgrade to plywood sides with dovetailed hardwood full-extension drawers. Consider adding a few roll-out trays or glass inserts on a cabinet or two. At this price point, you may not be able to move any major plumbing or gas lines but you can reconfigure the kitchen layout and electrical appliance locations. Choose from the numerous beautiful standard granite and quartz countertop options. Select an elegant under mount sink with coordinating pull-out faucet. Upgrade the lighting in your kitchen with under cabinet lighting, so everyone can see your new tile backsplash and counters. Don’t forget to refinish your floors or lay down a cost effective flooring over your existing substrate. Consider upgrading one applianc to professional industrial quality. Have panels installed around your refrigerator so it looks built-in. |
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BEST - Remodeling of $65,000+The “best” option is to remodel your kitchen with semi-custom or custom cabinetry, where you can get all plywood and hardwood construction. Your drawers will now be upgraded to extend fully and will have a soft close feature to protect the integrity of your drawers from being slammed. More specialty finishes are available and you can even select a custom paint finish for a truly unique kitchen. At this level, you can consider moving plumbing and gas lines or removing walls to transform your space. Consider adding a bar/prep sink in addition to your primary sink. Upgrade your lighting with recessed lights in addition to under cabinet lighting. Drop a few pendants over your peninsula or island and add a chandelier over your kitchen table. Lighting up a few glass cabinets with LED tape light, is a great way to show off your favorite fine china or decor. Select an exotic granite for your counters or perhaps just for your island as a statement piece. Select from a larger selection of porcelain, glass, and marble tiles for your backsplash. Add more storage accessories to your cabinets like a mixer lift-up shelf, a lift-up wall cabinet appliance garage, a spice pull-out or wine storage. Re-purpose the desk area typically built into most kitchens and transform it into a bar or hutch. Consider adding a little bling with crystal knobs on a few decorative cabinets. Select from the numerous high-end or commercial quality stainless steel appliances. Don’t forget to upgrade your floor to a stunning hardwood or porcelain tile. |
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