Killer Kitchen Renos: Save Here, Splurge There!

Are you ready to dive into the world of kitchen renovations? Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned DIYer, deciding where to splurge and where to save can be overwhelming. Luckily, you've come to the right place! At Popix Designs, we've seen it all - from luxurious marble countertops to affordable laminate flooring. And let's face it, who doesn't love a good deal? But before you start penny-pinching on every item in your kitchen, let's take a closer look at where you can save without sacrificing style and where it's worth it to spend a little extra dough. Because let's be real, who doesn't want a kitchen that's both functional and fabulous? So grab a cup of coffee and get ready for some fun and charming advice from your favorite interior designer (that's me, by the way!).

When it comes to renovating your kitchen, it's easy to get caught up in the idea that you have to splurge on every little detail. But the truth is, there are some areas where you can save without sacrificing style or quality, and flooring is one of them. Take a look at the photo above of our previous project – notice anything about the flooring? That's right, it's laminate! I know, I was almost fooled as well, it’s just so beautiful! If you want to see more of that project (and others), head over to the "portfolio" section on my website. So, if you're on the fence about where to save and where to splurge in your kitchen reno, don't be afraid to consider some of these more affordable flooring options. Your wallet will thank you!

Before you start tossing out your old stove like it's yesterday's leftovers, let's take a moment to consider the bigger picture. By keeping those trusty kitchen companions around a little longer, you're not only saving a pretty penny, but you're also doing your part for the environment. And let's be honest, nothing screams "cool" quite like being eco-friendly. So, let's give those appliances some love and appreciation for all the meals they've helped us cook and the countless times they've kept our food fresh. Who knows, they might just surprise you with a little extra longevity. And you can always swap them out later when you have saved a bit more moolah!

Design Credit: Claire Zinecker

Another area where you can save money is countertops. Countertops are one of the more expensive parts of a kitchen renovation, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style for affordability. You can save some major bucks by choosing porcelain or quartz over a luxury stone like marble, or quartzite. Porcelain may be cheaper to buy, but it's trickier to install due to the fact that it’s thinner than most other countertop materials. However, we think the veining in porcelain looks closer to the real deal, vs quartz. And in the end the price comes out to about the same as quartz once you factor in the extra cost of fabricating porcelain. So if you can’t afford a natural stone, or don’t love the way it wears, porcelain or quartz is a great option! Don’t stress about spending a fortune on your countertops. You can still have a beautiful and functional kitchen without breaking the bank.

If you're looking to save some cash and still achieve a fabulous kitchen transformation, keeping the same layout is a great place to start. Not only does it save you from the hassle of changing electrical and plumbing configurations, but it also means you don't have to break the bank on new appliances if your current ones are worth saving. Plus, if you've invested in custom cabinetry, you can usually work around any funky layout and still end up with a stunning and functional space. So go ahead and embrace the beauty of your current kitchen layout, and let your creativity run wild with the other elements of your renovation project!

Let's talk about the fun stuff - where to treat yo' self! Light fixtures are not only functional, but they can also add a touch of personality and style to your space. From modern and minimalist to vintage and ornate, there's a light fixture out there that will perfectly suit your tastes and complement your overall design aesthetic. Not to mention, good lighting can make all the difference in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. So don't be afraid to splurge a little on those light fixtures – they're an investment in both your home's value and your overall happiness in your space. Let's bring some light (and personality) into your kitchen!

When it comes to kitchen renovations, there's nothing worse than having to settle for cabinets that just don't quite fit your space. And let's be honest, those awkward trim and filler pieces can really cramp your style (and your cooking game). But fear not, because custom cabinetry is here to save the day! With custom cabinets, you can design them to fit your exact space and needs, like a spice rack that actually fits all of your spices (novel idea, right?). And the best part? No more settling for generic cabinets that just don't quite cut it. We've helped many clients create custom cabinetry that truly transforms their kitchen into a space that works for them. We're always up for a new design challenge and we can't wait to help you create the kitchen of your dreams.

Lastly, let's not forget the backsplash! When it comes to backsplash materials, the sky's the limit. Whether you're into zellige tiles or unique patterns, there's a tile out there that's perfect for you. And let's not forget about the luxurious marble tiles that can add a touch of elegance to any kitchen. If you want something a little more organic, natural stone tiles like travertine or slate can give your space a cozy, earthy feel. So go ahead, relax, and have fun with your backsplash choices. After all, it's the perfect place to let your creativity shine and make your kitchen truly your own.

Ah, yes, the finishing touches - the cherry on top of the cake! You can't forget about those, can you? A funky rug can add a pop of color and personality to your kitchen, and it's perfect for hiding any spills (we won't tell anyone). If you're feeling unsure about the size of your rug, no need to stress! Our other blog post has got you covered with some helpful tips that will put your mind at ease.

And let's not forget about colorful dishware - because who wants to eat off of boring white plates? Plus, it's a great way to express your individuality and make your space feel like your own. And let’s not forget about art. Yes, I said art! Who says a kitchen has to be all about cooking? Unique artwork can add a touch of sophistication and add interest to your kitchen. It’s one quick and easy way to jazz up your kitchen if you can’t afford to renovate just yet.

Design Credit: Atelier108

Design Credit: South Harlow Interiors

Thanks for reading this blog post and joining me on this journey through the world of kitchen renovations! As you can see, there are many ways to save money without sacrificing style and function. And if you're looking for a designer who can help you navigate these choices and create a beautiful, functional kitchen that you'll love for years to come, look no further than Popix Designs. We've got the experience, the creativity, and the eye for detail to bring your dream kitchen to life. So why not give us a call and let's get started on your kitchen renovation adventure!