Give your kitchen stylish updates on a budget

Designers offer ideas for getting a luxurious and refreshed look.

Tribune News Service
June 7, 2022 at 6:40PM
A new backsplash can completely transform an outdated kitchen and protect your walls. (John Wollwerth/Dreamstime/TNS)
A new backsplash can completely transform an outdated kitchen and protect your walls. (John Wollwerth/Dreamstime/TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Kitchen renovations are among the most popular home improvements, as well as the most rewarding. A new kitchen design can make that space a more functional, compelling heart of your home, in addition to boosting your home's resale value.

The average cost of a kitchen remodeling is $13,475 to $38,170, according to HomeAdvisor. If you don't want to spend that much, Wren Kitchens' experts have revealed the best tricks and tips for making your kitchen look luxurious and refreshed without splurging.

Check out these simple solutions to give your kitchen a new look:

Opt for quartz

Countertops are where things get done in the kitchen, whether it's office work or meal preparation, so you want something that will last. Quartz is extremely durable, looks great, and is a strong contender for those looking to spend money on a high-quality, long-lasting product.

'Quartz countertops and colored shaker cabinets are just a few of the modern elements making kitchen maintenance easier. (Dreamstime/TNS)
Quartz countertops are durable and attractive. (Dreamstime/TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Get creative with a backsplash

A new backsplash can completely transform an outdated kitchen and protect your walls.

"For a subtle and sophisticated look, choose color palettes that complement your countertops and cabinets to create a fresh feel without remodeling the entire room. For a more adventurous style, naturally inspired colors such as copper and brass are a current popular trend," according to Wren Kitchens.

Change out your handles

New handles can be made from a variety of materials and finishes, and they're a great way to update the look of your kitchen.

"When looking for something more customized to your style, you can mix and match a choice of handles to your cupboards to create a completely unique and bespoke design. The finishing touches are what guests appreciate, and these smaller touches are where you can save money when creating something different," Wren Kitchens says.

Satin brass cabinet pulls give an updated look. (Tim Nehotte Photography/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Vinyl is the trick to showstopping floors

Although flooring can be costly, it doesn't mean you have to settle for less.

According to Wren Kitchens, "Vinyl flooring is becoming more popular and is a simple and more cost-effective way of adding something more to your kitchen area."

Add pendant lighting

With the flick of a switch, pendant lighting can change the mood of a room. This simple, low-cost feature can make your kitchen appear more expensive without costing a fortune.

"Dependent on the vibe of your kitchen, you can opt for glistening glass pendants for something more stylish or exposed wired bulbs for kitchens that are more rustic."

about the writers

about the writers

Avery Newmark

Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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