By Kathleen Willcox
Autumn is just around the corner, which means your kitchen is about to go into overdrive. We’re inching closer to the holiday season, and it’s about time you took a look at your cooking space and ask: Does it appear a little worse for wear? Maybe it isn’t set up for the demands of its busiest season of the year.
If you’re concerned about whether it’s worth it, keep in mind that minor kitchen remodels deliver about 80% return on investment, according to Remodeling Magazine. In other words, this room is one of the best to focus on to improve your quality of life and your home’s resale value.
A kitchen remodel doesn’t have to cost tons of money. There are a number of ways to quickly revamp this room’s form and functionality, all for $1,000 or less. Here are some ideas.
1. Upgrade your hardware
Cabinet pulls(Amazon)
You don’t have to spend a bundle to make a statement. Here, $100 makes a big difference.
“Choose pulls and knobs in a style that fits your personal aesthetic, whether it’s midcentury modern or rustic farmhouse,” says Boyd Rudy, an associate broker at Dwellings Michigan.
Amazon has a fantastic range of hardware pieces starting at around $15. Etsy is also a great source for one-of-a-kind knobs and drawer pulls.
You can also improve your kitchen cabinets by installing soft-close hinges.
“The single most popular and most remarked on cabinet and drawer feature in homes I show is the soft-close hinge or drawer,” says Tate Kelly, a luxury broker with Compass in New York City. “People are obsessed with it, and it is an instant plus for the buyers.”
Soft-close hinge sets start at $15.
2. Make a bright statement
Pendant light(Lamps Plus)
If you have up to $500 to spend, create a focal point with a light fixture.
“Adding a statement light fixture is a great way to add drama and interest to your kitchen,” says Steven Hill, an interior designer and the founder of the DIY Gazette. “If you have dark paint color on your walls, consider a light fixture with brass or silver detailing to add some contrast.”
You can find great light fixtures for $200 to $500. Lamps Plus is a great place to start for kitchen lighting starting at $200.
3. Get personal with paint
If you have around $250 and a few days to spare, roll up your sleeves and get creative with color.
“If you’re looking for an affordable way to update the look of your kitchen quickly, paint your cabinets,” suggests Linda Haase, an interior designer in Palm Beach, FL. “You don’t need a professional painter, just buy some high-quality paint and get started.”
“One of the easiest and most dramatic ways to update your kitchen is to paint the walls a dark, rich color,” says Hill. “This will immediately make the space feel more sophisticated and luxurious. A dark paint color will also help to hide any imperfections in the walls. I would suggest using a high-gloss paint to really make the color pop.”
Top-quality paint and painting supplies can be found for as little as $300 online or at your local hardware store.
4. Cool down with an energy-efficient fan
If your kitchen gets steamy, consider installing a fan. It will help keep your space comfortable and save you money in the long run.
“Installing an energy-efficient fan can reduce cooling expenses by up to 40% in the summer,” says Laurice Constantine, founder of online home furnishing emporium Casadar.
Check your local Home Depot for fans in several styles starting at around $100.
5. Make a splash with a new sink
You use your kitchen sink multiple times a day, and like it or not, it’s a focal point of the kitchen. Replacing your current sink with one that suits your style and needs will make your kitchen look beautiful and improve your day-to-day life.
“Consider purchasing a sink that has an integrated drainboard so that you can easily wash dishes without having to bend over to clean them properly before putting them in the dishwasher,” says Haase.
Check out a range of options from $100 to $1,000-plus at The Home Depot.
Farmhouse sink(Home Depot)
6. Get transparent with glass-front doors
If you want to make a big impression, and you have up to $750 to spend, think about replacing your solid cabinet doors with glass fronts.
“Replacing solid doors with glass ones instantly makes the space feel more open and bright,” says Hill. “This is a great way to get a high-end look for less.”
Visit your local home improvement or cabinet store for a selection of replacement cabinet doors.
7. Add an island
Kitchen island(The Home Depot)
If you have a large kitchen and some wiggle room in your budget, consider installing an island.
While islands seem like a big lift, many don’t need a team a pros to install them. Check out options from $125 to $1,000 at The Home Depot.
Source: https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/ways-to-upgrade-kitchen-for-1k-or-less/