Kitchen Remodel Ideas on a Budget: Greige Cabinets Makeover
Kitchen Remodel Ideas on a Budget: Greige Cabinets Makeover
Remodeling our outdated kitchen was at the top of our priority list after purchasing our home.
I was more than excited to create the modern kitchen of my dreams with greige cabinets, but worried about the cost that comes with kitchen renovations.
We've all seen the HGTV specials for $10,000 remodels, but is that actually possible?
There are so many things that go into the cost of a new kitchen like: labor costs, square footage, size of your kitchen, structural changes, kitchen island design, lighting fixtures, custom cabinetry vs. keeping existing kitchen cabinets.
The overall cost can be overwhelming. Can you really remodel a kitchen on a budget?
In this post, I'm sharing 8 budget kitchen remodel ideas along with all of my trips & tricks for updating your old kitchen without going overboard on the cost.
It's really important to find a good general contractor to help you manage the work and total budget.
I can tell you that when your kitchen looks like the above image, you're definitely not doing a $10,000 kitchen remodel. I'll save the additional photos for a proper before and after, but look at that ugly kitchen!
It was not a very large kitchen, but there was literally nothing we could keep! We knew we wanted a nice kitchen, but couldn't afford too many high-end materials.
After all, this is a kitchen for a growing family so high end things like natural stone or porcelain tile feel way too high maintenance.
Why Remodel Your Kitchen?
Remodeling your kitchen can be one of the best ways to breathe new life into your home, especially if your current kitchen is outdated, cramped, or simply not functional.
When we moved into our new home, the kitchen was one of the first things we knew had to change. It was small, unattractive, and had nothing we wanted to keep. We knew we wanted a nice kitchen, but couldn't afford too many high-end materials.
Tackling a kitchen remodel can be a huge impact project, but it’s incredibly rewarding.
Not only does it enhance the feel of your kitchen, but it also significantly improves the overall value of your home. The good news is that you can often achieve a high-end look for a fraction of the cost!
One of the best ways to transform a small kitchen on a budget is through a few strategic updates. A fresh coat of paint on the walls and cabinet boxes can make the space feel brand new.
Replacing old tiles with a new backsplash or a stylish tile floor can also add a modern look without breaking the bank.
Additionally, swapping out cabinet hardware or installing new hardware on existing cabinet doors provides a quick and affordable facelift. We did that in our new home!
For those who love DIY projects, consider open shelving to replace some upper cabinets, which can create an open feel and offer clever storage solutions.
With some hard work and creative kitchen remodel ideas on a budget, you can turn even the most dated kitchen into a stylish and functional space that you’ll love to cook and entertain in.
What goes into the cost of a beautiful kitchen remodel?
All things considered, ours was a pretty minor kitchen remodel because we did not have structural changes like moving gas lines. Regardless, the average kitchen remodel cost with appliances would be $30,000-$50,000.
Designer (I designed our home myself, which saved ~$20,000)
Contractor labor & construction
Appliances
Cabinets
Countertops, backsplash & sink fixtures
Hardware & lighting
8 Budget Kitchen Remodel Ideas
There are a handful of ways that you can most definitely save on your renovation budget.
1. Avoid Major Changes to the Footprint
One of the most expensive parts of kitchen renovations is changing the kitchen layout. If you can update the kitchen countertops, cabinets, appliances, and fixtures without changing the actual footprint of the space, you'll save a lot of money. It was not a very large kitchen, but there was literally nothing we could keep! We knew we wanted a nice kitchen, but couldn't afford too many high-end materials.
2. Design Your Own Dream Kitchen
If you can afford it, getting an interior designer is a good idea. An easy way to save money on your kitchen remodel is to design it yourself.
While a designer would have been nice, it wasn't in our budget. I was happy to take it on myself. I wanted the challenge.
However, I did reach out to Kira David Design to vet my ideas. She is a dear friend and graciously offered a package to assess my layout ideas with her. I also knew we wouldn't be able to afford a designer with our budget.
Our goal was to tackle as much renovation of our new 1990s home as possible, which you can find the before photos of here.
3. Hire a Trusted Contractor
Finding a reliable contractor is essential for a smooth kitchen remodel that stays within your budget. Look for recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews to find someone trustworthy. A good contractor will transform your vision into reality, whether it's installing new cabinet doors, laying a tile backsplash, or painting white walls.
Discuss your kitchen remodel budget upfront and get a detailed quote to avoid surprises. Clear communication about the timeline and expectations is key. Reliable contractors will provide a full tutorial of their work plan and handle unexpected issues, like old cabinets in bad shape. With the right contractor, you can achieve a stylish kitchen makeover without stress or extra expense.
When it comes to a contractor, I genuinely can't recommend The Matts Construction enough. We priced out 3 contractors and I clicked with Matt immediately. He understood my ideas, quoted everything in a way that was easy to understand, and most importantly, was on time! Yes, our contractor, The Matts Construction was on time & did not go over budget. I swear, he's a unicorn.
4. Buy Appliance Packages
Appliances are a huge decision. They last at least 10 years, but they can also get expensive.
Buying appliance packages is the best way to ensure your kitchen has a cohesive look while staying within your budget.
Appliance packages often come with matching finishes and styles, making it easier to achieve a new look for your kitchen. Many local stores and major retailers like Lowe's offer great deals on these packages, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
When I budgeted for our kitchen remodel cost, I wanted something beautiful, functional, and with an element of design. We immediately stumbled up the Café series and fell in love.
The cost of new appliances can range in cost from about $5,500 up to $20,000. We partnered with Café on our appliances, which have a retail value of $11,500..
5. Buy Stock Cabinets
When it comes to a kitchen remodel, cabinets can eat up a huge chunk of the budget! If your cabinets are in good shape, the least expensive thing to do is certainly paint them or just purchase new doors.
This can give you a fresh new look without the high cost of replacement. In our case, we needed all new cabinets. We found that stock cabinets were a cost-effective solution, starting around $5,000, compared to custom cabinets that can easily exceed $20,000.
One of my big lessons learned is that stock cabinets essentially only come in white. I wanted a cabinet color other than white. While a white kitchen is a safe choice, it's been done and I knew I wanted something different.
Using new paint to transform stock cabinets is a great idea, especially if you're looking to achieve a high-end look without the high-end price tag.
6. Know When to Splurge - Countertops, Backsplash, & Sink Fixtures
For our backsplash, I wanted to run the quartz up the wall for a clean look, which is, of course, more expensive.
The least expensive option for a kitchen backsplash is glass subway tile. It's clean and very inexpensive. The most expensive is granite or quartz because it's a premium material.
However, our backsplash space was relatively limited, so I felt it was worth the splurge. Again, The Matts Construction had a great contact who offered affordable pricing.
With our large island, backsplash, and countertop space, the quartz cost about $5,000. The backsplash was about $2,000 of that cost whereas a tile would have been more like $800-$1,000.
Now, finding the right gold sink fixture was a whole other challenge! Ultimately, I found the Moen model that's modern, with a pull-down sprayer and a beautiful gold color. I bought it on Build.com, however, you can find it on Amazon, too. I also absolutely LOVE our Blanco sink from Build.com. It's composite and cleans so well.
Countertops:
New countertops are often at the forefront of any kitchen remodeling project. The material, style, and color you choose can transform your kitchen into the dream space you've always envisioned.
Granite countertops, known for their durability and luxurious appearance, are a popular choice among homeowners. However, the price range for countertops varies, and you may also consider more budget-friendly options like ceramic tile or laminate.
The national average cost of countertops can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the material and extent of the remodel.
When determining the cost, it's essential to consider factors such as the linear foot of countertop needed, the type of material selected, and any additional features like under-cabinet lighting.
Investing in high-quality materials may seem like a higher upfront cost, but it can add significant value to your home and prove cost-effective in the long run.
Sinks and Fixtures:
Selecting the right sink and fixtures is another crucial aspect of a kitchen remodel. The type of sink, whether it's a single or double bowl, farmhouse, or undermount, can impact the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.
Stainless steel sinks are a popular choice for their durability and timeless look.
Fixtures, including faucets and light fixtures, contribute to the overall design and functionality.
Upgrading to higher-end fixtures can elevate the entire space, but it's essential to balance your desire for a high-end kitchen with your budget constraints. Consider energy-efficient and water-saving fixtures to enhance both the sustainability and functionality of your kitchen.
Backsplashes:
A backsplash should tie together the design elements of your kitchen. From ceramic tile to intricate mosaic designs, backsplashes offer a chance to show off your style.
The average cost of a kitchen remodel should include the expense of the backsplash material, installation, and any additional costs related to the type of work required.
Not only do backsplashes serve an aesthetic purpose, but they also protect your kitchen walls from water damage and stains. They are a popular choice for cosmetic changes, allowing you to personalize your kitchen and make it the heart of your home.
In a major kitchen remodel, the extent of the renovation may involve replacing doors, upgrading appliances, and even rearranging the layout.
For larger projects, it's advisable to consult with a professional kitchen designer and hire professional contractors who can ensure the necessary permits are obtained.
7. Swap Hardware & Lighting
Swapping out hardware and lighting makes a huge impact at a minimal cost.
Updating old, tired hardware with sleek, modern handles and pulls instantly freshens up your kitchen space, whether you have white cabinets or laminate countertops.
Similarly, new light fixtures can transform the entire room, making it feel more inviting and functional. Hardware and lighting can tie together stylish kitchen makeovers, enhancing your kitchen design by giving it a fresh and modern feel that ties together your overall design ideas.
Hardware was the easiest part of the design, and lighting was the hardest. I instantly fell in love with the gold hex line at CB2.
They have straight pulls as well, but hex fit the adjoining bathroom we have so I opted for that. I looked on Amazon for pulls in gold, and they were all cheap, to be honest. For all of our pulls, I spent about $400.
For lighting, oh boy was that a struggle bus. I fell in love with the Claremont pendants from Serena & Lily, ordered them, and had the worst customer experience ever. It was so bad that I will probably never shop there again.
After searching high & low at every store you can imagine, I found our pendants on Amazon. They happened to be the cheapest too - what luck! Pendants can cost $100 up to $1,000+ per light. By the way, the paint color in our kitchen is Du Jour by Valspar.
Gold Hardware
Gold hardware, such as cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and faucets, can instantly transform the look of your kitchen. Whether you're going for a high-end, luxurious vibe or a more contemporary, modern feel, gold hardware can complement a variety of design styles. The warm tones of gold add a sense of elegance and charm to the space, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
While gold hardware may come at a higher price point compared to other finishes, its durability and timeless appeal make it a worthwhile investment. When considering the cost of hardware for your kitchen remodel, factor in the quality of materials and the extent of the renovation. Gold hardware is often seen as a high-end option and can significantly enhance the overall value of your home.
Lighting Fixtures
Lighting plays a crucial role in any kitchen remodel, illuminating the space and enhancing its functionality. When it comes to selecting lighting fixtures, gold accents can add a touch of glamour and sophistication. Whether you opt for pendant lights above the island, recessed lighting in the ceiling, or under-cabinet lighting for task areas, gold finishes can make a bold statement.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, gold lighting fixtures can also improve the functionality of your kitchen by providing adequate illumination for cooking, food prep, and entertaining. Consider the type of lighting that best suits your needs and the overall design of your kitchen. LED lighting, for example, is energy-efficient and long-lasting, making it a popular choice for modern kitchens.
When budgeting for lighting fixtures as part of your kitchen remodel, consider the cost of installation, as well as any additional features such as dimmer switches or smart lighting controls. Investing in high-quality lighting fixtures can enhance the ambiance of your kitchen and contribute to its overall value.
Gold hardware and lighting fixtures are excellent choices for adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to your kitchen remodel. Whether you're aiming for a high-end look or a more contemporary feel, gold accents can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your space while also enhancing its functionality and value. Consider the quality of materials, the cost of installation, and the overall design of your kitchen when incorporating gold hardware and lighting into your remodel.
8. Don't Underestimate the Power of Wall Paint
One of the most transformative and cost-effective updates you can make in your kitchen is a fresh coat of wall paint. Whether you're dealing with the choices made by previous owners or simply looking to refresh your space, the right color can make a huge difference.
Home improvement stores like Lowe's often have a wide selection of paint colors, making it easy to find the perfect shade that complements your kitchen's design. If you have small cabinets and are working with a tight budget, painting the walls can make a significant impact without requiring a lot of time or money.
A fresh coat of paint is one of the best tips for creating a large open space feeling, even in a compact area. Whether you're painting an entire wall or just a small wall behind the oven door or above drawer units, new wall paint can revitalize your kitchen, making it look fresh and modern.
When it comes to white walls, finding the right shade of white is tough. The paint color in our kitchen is Du Jour by Valspar. I'm happy to share my Valspar white paint samples with you today to give you a better idea of the true color.
Our Greige Kitchen Cabinets
When it comes to a kitchen remodel cost, cabinets eat up a huge chunk of the budget! If you have cabinets that can be saved, the least expensive thing to do is certainly paint them. We needed all new cabinets. There are stock cabinets, semi-custom cabinets, and custom cabinets. Stock cabinets start around $5,000 whereas custom cabinets can cost upwards of $20,000 (or higher!). The cost is seriously crazy.
One of my big lessons learned is that stock cabinets essentially only come in white. I wanted a cabinet color other than white. While white is a safe choice, it’s been done and I desired something different. However, I designed our kitchen with Café matte white appliances in mind.
Finding the right greige color is tough and basically custom. Our cabinets are Agreeable Grey by Sherwin Williams and are custom. However, they were a fraction of the price thanks to a contact from The Matts Construction (he is seriously such a gem).
Total Kitchen Remodel Cost of Our Kitchen with Greige Cabinets
Determining the total cost of your kitchen remodel involves careful consideration of various components, including the fees for professionals, the cost of materials, and potential additional expenses. Let's break down the estimated costs for each category to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect.
Designer: $10,000+ (optional)
Enlisting the services of a professional kitchen designer can elevate the overall design and functionality of your space. While optional, a designer can bring expertise and creativity to the project. Costs may vary, but budgeting around $10,000 or more for their services is a common estimate.
Contractor: $8,000+
Hiring a reputable contractor is essential for a successful kitchen remodel. The cost of a contractor typically starts at $8,000, but it can increase depending on the scope and complexity of the project. A skilled contractor ensures that the remodeling process runs smoothly, from obtaining necessary permits to overseeing the construction work.
Appliances: $5,000-$20,000
Appliances contribute significantly to the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen. The price range for quality appliances varies, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the brand and features. Investing in energy-efficient and high-end kitchen appliances can impact the overall efficiency and value of your kitchen.
Cabinets: $5,000-$20,000+
Cabinets are a major component of any kitchen remodel. The cost of stock cabinets can start at $5,000, while custom or high-end options can exceed $20,000. The choice of material, design, and finish will influence the overall cost of your cabinets.
Hardware: $100-$1,000
Adding the finishing touches with stylish hardware is a relatively affordable aspect of the remodel. Budgeting between $100 and $1,000 for hardware, including cabinet handles and faucets, allows for a range of options to complement the design.
Sink & Sink Fixtures: $500-$3,000
Choosing a quality sink and fixtures is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. Costs for sinks and fixtures can range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the material and design. High-quality sinks and fixtures contribute to the overall durability and appeal of your kitchen.
Lighting: $100-$3,000
Proper lighting enhances the ambiance and functionality of your kitchen. Budgeting between $100 and $3,000 for lighting fixtures ensures a wide range of options. Consider energy-efficient and stylish fixtures to illuminate different areas of your kitchen effectively.
As you plan your kitchen remodel, keep in mind that additional costs may arise based on the type of work required, the need for necessary permits, and any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the renovation process. It's essential to set a realistic budget and work closely with professionals to achieve your dream kitchen within your financial parameters.
Keep in mind, anything at the low end of the spectrum is builder grade. Think opening price point at Home Depot. Our kitchen is more mid-tier in pricing, which includes brands like Blanco, Moen, CB2, and Rejuvenation.
Shop Our Kitchen
Embarking on a kitchen remodel is a significant undertaking that involves a careful balance between design aspirations, functionality enhancements, and budget considerations.
The key components of this transformative journey, including countertops, sinks, fixtures, gold hardware, lighting, and the overall project cost, collectively shape the heart of your home into a space that not only meets your daily needs but also adds value to your residence.
Countertops, as the foundation of your culinary workspace, serve as a canvas for culinary creativity. From the timeless elegance of granite countertops to the budget-friendly versatility of ceramic tile, the material you choose not only reflects your style but also influences the overall aesthetic of your dream kitchen.
Investing in high-quality materials may initially seem like a higher expense, but it undoubtedly enhances the durability and longevity of your kitchen surfaces.
In the realm of sinks and fixtures, selecting the right combination is crucial for both functionality and style.
A well-chosen sink, complemented by gold hardware, can turn an ordinary kitchen into a luxurious space. The warm tones of gold not only add a touch of glamour but also contribute to a timeless and sophisticated atmosphere.
Lighting fixtures play a pivotal role in the functionality and ambiance of your kitchen. Whether you opt for pendant lights, recessed lighting, or under-cabinet lighting, the addition of gold accents can elevate the overall design, creating a cohesive and visually stunning space.
Efficient and stylish lighting enhances not only the aesthetic appeal but also the practicality of your kitchen.
Considering the total project cost is essential for a successful kitchen remodel. From the fees for a professional designer and contractor to the costs associated with appliances, cabinets, and additional elements, having a realistic budget is crucial. A well-thought-out budget allows you to navigate the remodeling process smoothly, ensuring that your dream kitchen becomes a reality without compromising on quality.
In the end, your kitchen remodel isn't just a cosmetic change but a holistic transformation of the heart of your home. Each decision you make, from the choice of materials to the selection of fixtures and lighting, contributes to the overall value of your home.
Balancing your vision with practical considerations and staying within your budget will result in a kitchen that not only meets your expectations but also enhances your daily living experience.
As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that the investment you make today in your dream kitchen is an investment in the future value and functionality of your home.
You might also like…
Hi, I’m Jen!
Hi, I’m Jen, your perpetually optimistic, fun-loving, witty friend. When I’m not working at The Marketing Greenhouse, you can find me gardening in the sun, playing games with my kids or creating content that inspires people to try new things and be the best version of themselves.
