How to get the look you want for less when renovating your kitchen

The kitchen can be one of the most expensive and time consuming areas in the home to renovate. But if you are thinking about starting one, or are right in the middle of creating your dream kitchen these these tips might help you on your way.

How to get the look you want for less when renovating your kitchen

Decide on a budget and stick to it. The amount you have to spend will determine everything from the materials you use to the appliances you choose.
Keep it simple. The more elaborate you make your kitchen, the more expensive it becomes.
Have a plan and do your research, if you are sure of what you want from the start it will not only save you time, but it will also save you money.
Select quality finishes that look great but won’t date quickly and spend as much as you can afford on durable work surfaces. The cost of quality; priceless.
Buy appliances through your kitchen company, this will allow you to take advantage of package deals and ensures delivery of kitchen and appliances together.
Choose a neutral colour throughout your kitchen cabinets and bench tops and use paint and accessories to add colour instead. These can be changed easily and cost effectively as fashions change.
A galley kitchen is the least expensive layout, requiring only one straight run of cabinetry and if planned properly you can still amass a great deal of accessible storage and bench space.
When it comes to selecting the door finish, the best bang for your buck is a melamine door. Next is a vinyl wrap, followed by a painted door (which will last longer, but is more expensive).

Cost of kitchen renovations

Budget kitchens and materials range from $10,000 to $25,000
Mid-range and standard materials and kitchens range between $20,000 and $45,000
High-end and luxury kitchens start at $45,000+

Types of kitchen cabinetry

There ARE some variations to these options, but here are some basic ideas >>

Melamine (made from resin impregnated decorative paper bonded onto Particle board or MDF substrate applied by heat and pressure)
Vinyl Wrap (wraps around leaving no ‘edge’ like Melamine and high gloss look like a 2pac painted door)
2pac Painted Polyurethane (achieves the no edge, high gloss or satin look, can be repaired easily and is hardest wearing)