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The first project we tackled in our Belmont House was the kitchen. Our mission was to make this space timeless, modern, and clean. There’s a lot you can do to elevate your kitchen on a budget.
Ideas for updating your kitchen:
- Paint cabinets/drawers
- Add new hardware
- Install new appliances
- Replace or add backsplash
- Update countertops
- Switch up decor
- Install new light fixtures
What we did:
- Painted cabinets/drawers
- Added hardware
- Installed a new sink
- Updated backsplash
- Incorporated new decor
- Epoxied counters
A few finer details into our kitchen project…
Counters & Drawers – We sprayed our cabinets and drawers white then added hardware. All hardware came from Lowe’s. You don’t need to own a sprayer for a project like this. You can rent sprayers or paint by hand. A sprayer is easier but you can do it by hand as long as you’re careful and do the proper prep work.
Backsplash & Counters – Mike epoxied our counters and updated the backsplash. The tile came from Lowe’s and we got our epoxy kit from Stone Coat Countertops. Our countertops turned out fine and it was a cheaper alternative than replacing the actual counters. It is a very messy process and takes time. Transparently, it looks good but we’ll fully replace counters in the future instead of epoxying because of how much time it takes.
Appliances, Decor, & Lighting – Our appliances were in good shape besides the sink. We ordered our sink off Amazon and went with 1 bowl versus a double. We added a few new decor items: hand towels, cutting boards, tea kettle, vase, and curtains. Our kitchen has two fan lights and we plan to replace them soon. We want to add shelves on the far side of the kitchen and update our coffee station later this year.
What to consider when updating your kitchen:
- How can you make the space more functional? Maybe this means updating your kitchen layout, adding shelves, or incorporating an island.
- What is your home color pallet? Think of the colors that flow through each room of your house. Incorporate those colors in your kitchen through items like hand towels, vases, baskets, wall art, etc.
- Do you need new appliances? If so, what are the most crucial needs?
- What hardware could you update? Think about what metal you prefer (brushed, gold, etc.). Don’t be afraid of mixing metals and be realistic with size.
- Do you need new cabinets or could you paint what you have? Determine what color/finish fits your style best. I recommend white or anything lighter for small spaces.
- Should you update lighting? If you can’t afford to replace light fixtures then consider what wattage you’re using. Switching lightbulbs can do more work than you think!
- Do you want new backsplash? Perhaps consider peel-and-stick tile if you don’t have a tile cutter.