How to Refresh your Kitchen on a Budget
From $100 - $1000
Posted: January 30, 2018 by Elizabeth Wilson
Maybe you’re dreaming of a full kitchen remodel someday (but that day is a long way off), or perhaps you like your current kitchen but want to change a few components. If this sounds like your situation, a kitchen refresh could be just the thing.
Even without reconfiguring the layout of the space, there’s a lot to consider, from small items, such as new cabinet hardware and lighting, to major changes, such as new counters and appliances. And whether your budget is $100 or $10,000, it can be a challenge to decide what to prioritize and what to put on the back burner.
Use this kitchen refresh plan as your starting point, and customize it to work with your space and budget.
If your budget is around $100: Change the wall color. Between cabinetry and appliances, kitchens generally have limited wall space — which means it won’t take much paint to cover it.
If you do the painting yourself, your only costs will be a gallon or so of paint (check this guide, or ask at the paint store to get the right amount) and basic painting supplies.
If you have cash left, use it to pick up a new art print and pop it into a ready-made frame to decorate your freshly painted wall.
If your budget is around $300: Change the wall color, put up a new art print and then swap out a light fixture. One swap for tired lighting can make a huge difference in how your kitchen looks and feels — and there are so many great budget lighting options available you don’t have to break the bank to get an on-trend look. If you have more room in your budget, replace all of the kitchen lights, or splurge on a fancier pendant over the island.
If your budget is around $500: Paint, hang art, get new lighting and add open shelves. Open shelving certainly has its fans — and its critics — but one thing is certain: It does wonders for small spaces. Even replacing one small upper cabinet with a set of open shelves can make your kitchen feel more spacious and provides an opportunity to display favorite dishes and accessories.
If your budget is around $700: What’s next? After the fresh paint, art, lighting and open shelves, consider springing for a new faucet. Replacing a kitchen faucet costs less than doing the whole sink (that’s next) and can be a DIY job for handy homeowners.
If your budget is around $1,000: If you have more wiggle room in your budget, splash out on a new sink to go with that new faucet. Keep in mind that if your new sink is a different style than the old one, you may face additional installation costs to fit it properly into the cabinetry and counter.
~ Houzz
~ Houzz
Loading Comments
Copyright © 2026 SAR MLS. The information displayed herein was derived from sources believed to be accurate, but has not been verified by SAR MLS. Buyers are cautioned to verify all information to their own satisfaction. This information is exclusively for viewers personal, non-commercial use. Any republication or reproduction of the information herein without the express permission of the SAR MLS is strictly prohibited.