How to Plan a Low Cost Kitchen Renovation
If you’re someone who enjoys rolling up your sleeves, you’re already on the path to major savings. Tackling a few key projects yourself is one of the best ways to achieve alow cost kitchen renovation. Painting cabinets, installing a new backsplash, or even handling the demolition can free up thousands in your budget for other priorities. But a smart renovation is also about knowing your limits. This guide will help you find that perfect balance, showing you which DIY projects offer the biggest return and when it’s time to call in a professional to ensure the job is done right, keeping your project on track and stress-free.
Key Takeaways
Keep Your Kitchen's Footprint Intact: The fastest way to inflate your budget is by moving plumbing, gas, or electrical lines. Sticking with your current layout lets you direct your funds toward cosmetic changes that deliver a huge visual impact without the massive cost of reconfiguring the space.
Prioritize High-Impact, Low-Cost Changes: You don't need to replace everything to get a new look. Focus your budget on updates that matter most, like painting cabinets, swapping out hardware, and upgrading light fixtures, which can completely transform your kitchen for a fraction of the cost of a full gut job.
Be Strategic About DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Save significantly on labor by tackling manageable projects like painting, demolition, or installing a backsplash yourself. For complex jobs involving plumbing or electrical work, invest in a qualified professional to ensure the work is done safely, correctly, and up to code.
What Is a Low-Cost Kitchen Renovation?
A low-cost kitchen renovation isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about making smart, strategic decisions that give you the most bang for your buck. It means focusing on cosmetic updates and clever material choices rather than a full-scale gut job that involves moving walls or plumbing. The goal is to achieve a high-end look that transforms your space without the high-end price tag. With a clear plan, you can create a beautiful, functional kitchen that feels brand new. A successful budget-friendlykitchen remodelingproject hinges on knowing where to spend and where to save, allowing you to get the kitchen you’ve been dreaming of while sticking to your budget.
Set Realistic Expectations
Before you start pinning inspiration photos, it’s important to understand what a kitchen renovation can cost. The national average is around $26,000, so a "low-cost" project will fall significantly below that. The key is to align your vision with your budget. A great rule of thumb is to always set aside an extra 10-20% of your total budget for a contingency fund. Renovations are notorious for surprises—like discovering old plumbing or electrical issues once you open up a wall. Having that cushion prevents a small hiccup from derailing your entire project and ensures you can handle unexpected costs without stress.
Focus on High-Impact, Low-Cost Changes
You don’t need to tear everything out to make a big difference. You can give your kitchen a fresh new look for less than you might think by focusing on changes that offer the most visual impact. Painting your existing cabinets, for example, can completely change the feel of the room for the cost of just paint and supplies. Other high-impact updates include installing a new backsplash, swapping out old hardware for modern knobs and pulls, and upgrading your lighting fixtures. These smallerremodelingtasks can dramatically brighten and modernize your kitchen without the expense of a full overhaul.
How to Budget for a Kitchen Renovation
Figuring out the finances is the first real step in any renovation. A clear, realistic budget is your roadmap—it guides your decisions, keeps your project on track, and prevents stressful surprises down the line. It’s not about limiting your creativity; it’s about channeling it smartly. By planning where every dollar will go, you can make choices that give you the beautiful, functional kitchen you want without the financial headache. Let’s walk through how to build a budget that works for you.
Break Down Your Budget by Category
Seeing one big number for a kitchen remodel can feel intimidating. The key is to break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces. Start by listing all the potential expenses, from the big-ticket items to the smaller details. A typicalkitchen remodelingbudget includes costs for cabinets, countertops, appliances, labor, flooring, lighting, and plumbing. As a general guide, cabinets are often thebiggest expense, accounting for nearly 30% of the total cost. By assigning a percentage of your budget to each category, you can see where your money is going and make informed decisions about where to save and where to splurge.
Plan for the Unexpected: The Contingency Rule
No matter how well you plan, renovations have a way of revealing surprises. You might open up a wall and find old plumbing that needs replacing or discover that your floors are uneven. That’s where a contingency fund comes in. Think of it as a financial safety net for your project. A good rule of thumb is to set aside an extra 10% to 20% of your total budget just for these unforeseen costs. If you don’t end up needing it, great! You can put it toward an appliance upgrade or just put it back in your savings. But if you do need it, you’ll be so glad it’s there.
Get Multiple Contractor Quotes
Once you have a rough budget, it’s time to talk to the pros. Don’t just go with the first quote you get. Reach out to several reputable contractors to get a feel for the costs in your area. When you compare quotes, look beyond the bottom line. A super-low bid could be a red flag for subpar materials or inexperienced labor. A quality quote should be detailed, breaking down the costs for materials, labor, and permits. This is also your chance to find a team you trust. A goodproject managerwill listen to your vision, respect your budget, and communicate clearly every step of the way.
Get the Most Impact for Your Money
A beautiful kitchen renovation doesn’t have to mean tearing everything down to the studs. When you’re working with a specific budget, the key is to focus your dollars on changes that deliver the biggest visual and functional payoff. Think of it as a strategic makeover rather than a complete overhaul. By concentrating on the most prominent features of your kitchen—the cabinets, countertops, and lighting—you can create a dramatic new look without the expense of a full gut job.
These three elements are the workhorses of your kitchen’s design. They set the tone, define the style, and impact how you feel every time you walk into the room. A few smart updates in these areas can make the entire space feel fresh, modern, and more valuable. Instead of spreading your budget thin across a dozen small projects, channeling it into these high-impact zones ensures every dollar you spend makes a noticeable difference. This approach is all about working smarter, not just spending more, to achieve thekitchen remodelingresults you want.
Refresh vs. Replace Your Cabinets
If your kitchen layout works for you, there’s a good chance you don’t need to replace your cabinets. Cabinetry is often the most expensive line item in a kitchen budget, so keeping your existing boxes is a huge money-saver. Instead of tearing them out, consider giving them a professional refresh. A new coat of paint can completely change the look and feel of your kitchen, taking it from dated and dark to bright and modern. Hiring a painter to spray your cabinets is significantly cheaper than ordering new custom ones. Paired with new, updated hardware like pulls and knobs, a simple refinishing job can make your old cabinets look brand new.
Find Countertop Alternatives That Look Expensive
Everyone loves the look of high-end stone countertops, but they come with a hefty price tag. The good news is you can get a similar aesthetic for a fraction of the cost. Many modern laminate countertops are designed to convincingly mimic the look of granite, marble, or quartz, complete with sleek edge profiles that give them a high-end finish. Another clever strategy is to use 12x12-inch granite tiles instead of a full slab. You get the durability and beauty of real stone without the high material and fabrication costs. Thesecountertop alternativesprove you don’t have to sacrifice style to stick to your budget.
Transform Your Space with New Lighting
Lighting is one of the most overlooked but impactful elements in a kitchen. The right lighting can make a small kitchen feel larger, a dark kitchen feel brighter, and an old kitchen feel new again. For the best results, think in layers. Start with recessed lights for overall ambient brightness. Then, add under-cabinet lighting, which is perfect for illuminating your countertops for tasks like chopping and prep work. Finally, add a statement piece for accent and style. A beautifulpendant lightover the island or sink can serve as a stunning focal point and tie the whole room together. Updating your light fixtures is a relatively low-cost change that makes a world of difference.
Save Thousands with These DIY Projects
If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves, you can save a significant chunk of your renovation budget. Tackling a few key projects yourself frees up funds for those areas where you really want to invest, like high-quality countertops or hiring aproject managerto handle the complex parts of your remodel. These DIY tasks are high-impact, totally manageable for a weekend warrior, and can make a huge difference in your final kitchen.
Paint Your Cabinets Like a Pro
Giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh coat of paint is one of the most transformative DIYs you can do. If your cabinet boxes are in good shape, a new color can make them look brand new. For a modern touch, you can paint lower cabinets a dark, moody color and keep the uppers light and airy. In a smaller kitchen, painting the cabinets and walls the same light shade can make the space feel much larger. Don’t forget the hardware—a can of black spray paint can easily update dated brass pulls and knobs for a sleek, cohesive finish.
Install Your Own Backsplash
A new backsplash can completely change the personality of your kitchen, and it’s a project you can definitely handle yourself. Classic subway tile is an affordable and timeless choice that’s relatively easy to install. For something a bit different, penny tiles or a simple beadboard panel can add texture and charm without breaking the bank. Installing a backsplash is a great weekend project that requires more patience than skill. With a good tutorial and the right tools, you can add a custom touch that looks professionally done and protects your walls from cooking splatters.
Update Hardware and Refinish Cabinets
Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest impact. Swapping out old, clunky cabinet hardware for sleek new pulls and knobs is a five-minute task that instantly modernizes your kitchen. The same goes for lighting. Replacing a dated fixture with a few stylish pendant lights over your island or sink can redefine the room’s entire atmosphere. You can also add personality by installing open shelving to display your favorite dishware or hanging some framed vintage artwork. These small updates don’t require a lot of money or technical skill, but they make your kitchen feel thoughtfully designed and uniquely yours.
Handle Your Own Demolition
Ready to have some fun and save on labor costs? Handling your own demolition is a great way to kick off your renovation. Tearing out old cabinets, countertops, and flooring can be incredibly satisfying, and it cuts down on the bill from your contractor. Just be sure to work safely by turning off the water and electricity and wearing protective gear. For waste removal, a service likeBagsteris often more affordable and convenient than renting a traditional dumpster. Taking on the demo yourself gets you invested in the project from day one and saves you money for the fun part: building it all back up.
Choose Budget-Friendly Materials That Last
A huge chunk of your kitchen renovation budget goes toward materials, but "affordable" doesn't have to mean "cheap." The key is to choose durable, stylish materials that give you the look you want without the hefty price tag. Smart selections can save you thousands and still result in a beautiful, functional kitchen that stands the test of time. From countertops to cabinets, there are fantastic alternatives to high-end options that look just as good. A greatkitchen remodelingplan focuses on finding that sweet spot between cost and quality. By being strategic about where you spend, you can create a space that feels luxurious and personal, all while sticking to your budget. Let's break down some of the bestbudget-friendly materialsthat deliver on both performance and style.
Consider Laminate and Butcher-Block Countertops
Countertops are a major focal point, but you don't need to splurge on marble or granite to make a statement. Modern laminate has come a long way from the styles you might remember from decades past. Today’s options come in a huge variety of patterns that convincingly mimic stone or wood, and you can get them with sleek, squared-off edges for a contemporary look. Another fantastic, budget-friendly choice is butcher block. It adds natural warmth and character to any kitchen and is perfect for a cozy, farmhouse vibe. If you have your heart set on stone, consider using granite tiles instead of a single slab—they provide the same durability at a fraction of the cost.
Explore Affordable Flooring Options
Your kitchen floor needs to withstand spills, heavy foot traffic, and the occasional dropped pan. Luckily, some of the most durable flooring options are also the most affordable. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a top contender because it’s waterproof, scratch-resistant, and comes in incredibly realistic wood and stone looks. It’s comfortable to stand on and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for busy households. Porcelain tile is another workhorse material that offers incredible design flexibility. It’s extremely tough and can mimic everything from high-end marble to rustic hardwood. Both LVP and porcelain give you a high-end finish that will last for years without breaking the bank.
Look into Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets
Cabinets can easily be the most expensive line item in a kitchen remodel, but ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets offer a brilliant way to save. These cabinets are shipped flat-packed, and you or your contractor handle the assembly, which significantly cuts down on labor costs. Don't let the "RTA" label fool you; many companies offer high-quality options made from solid wood and plywood that are just as sturdy as custom-built units. For even more savings and a touch of personality, consider mixing RTA cabinets with open shelving. This approach can make your kitchen feel more open and airy while giving you a stylish spot to display your favorite dishes.
Shop for Energy-Efficient Appliances
Choosing new appliances is an opportunity to save money long after the renovation is complete. Opting for energy-efficient models is a smart investment that lowers your monthly utility bills and is better for the environment. When shopping, look for theENERGY STARlabel, which certifies that the appliance meets strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. From refrigerators and dishwashers to ovens and cooktops, selecting energy-saving options ensures your new kitchen is not only beautiful but also cost-effective to run. This is a forward-thinking choice that adds value to your home and your wallet over time.
Where to Find Deals on Kitchen Materials
A beautiful kitchen doesn't have to come with a shocking price tag. The secret to a budget-friendly renovation often lies in how you source your materials. With a little patience and some savvy shopping strategies, you can find high-quality items for a fraction of their retail cost. It’s all about knowing where to look and when to buy.
Think of it as a treasure hunt. Instead of walking into a single big-box store and buying everything off the shelf, you can piece together your dream kitchen by exploring different avenues for deals. From timing your purchases around major sales to discovering hidden gems in secondhand shops, a flexible approach can save you thousands. This smart savings allows you to allocate more of your budget toward skilled labor for a flawless installation—which is where a professionalproject managerbecomes invaluable for keeping everything on track. Getting creative with sourcing doesn't mean you're compromising on quality; it means you're being strategic. You can still get the durable countertops, stylish fixtures, and reliable appliances you want. You just won't be paying the full sticker price. This approach requires a bit more planning and research, but the payoff is a stunning kitchen that looks far more expensive than it actually was. Let’s explore some of the best places to find these incredible deals.
Shop During Major Sales Events
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to saving money on big-ticket items. If your timeline is flexible, plan your major purchases around holiday sales events. Retailers offer some of their deepest discounts during Black Friday, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July. This is the perfect time to buy appliances, flooring, and even cabinetry. Start your research early, know exactly which models you want, and be ready to buy when the prices drop. Signing up for email lists from your favorite home improvement stores can also give you a heads-up on upcoming promotions, ensuring you never miss a deal.
Check Online Marketplaces and Secondhand Shops
You can find incredible bargains on gently used or even brand-new materials if you’re willing to do a little digging. Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are fantastic for finding appliances, leftover tile, and even full cabinet sets from people who are also renovating. Don’t forget to check out local reuse centers and architectural salvage stores, like aHabitat for Humanity ReStore. These shops are often filled with high-quality donations from other projects, including sinks, faucets, and lighting fixtures. You might just find that perfect vintage piece that adds unique character to your kitchen.
Look for Open-Box and Floor Model Appliances
If the idea of secondhand appliances doesn't appeal to you, look for open-box or floor models at major retailers. These are new items that may have a small, often unnoticeable, cosmetic scratch or dent from shipping, or were simply used for display in the showroom. Because they can't be sold as "brand new in box," stores offer them at a significant discount. The best part? They almost always come with the full manufacturer's warranty. Just ask a store associate if they have any scratch-and-dent or floor models available—you could walk away with a high-end appliance for a mid-range price.
Where to Splurge vs. Where to Save
A successful budget renovation isn’t about choosing the cheapest option for everything. It’s about being strategic. Knowing where to invest your money for the best performance and longevity—and where you can cut back without sacrificing style—is the key to a kitchen that looks and feels more expensive than it was. By making smart, intentional choices, you can create a beautiful, functional space that you’ll love for years, all while keeping your budget in check. It’s all about balancing high-impact splurges with clever savings.
Know Where to Invest Your Limited Budget
Some parts of your kitchen work harder than others, and that’s where you should focus your funds. Think about the items you touch and use every single day. A high-quality faucet, for example, is a worthy splurge. It’s a functional centerpiece, and investing in a durable model will prevent leaks and headaches down the road. Similarly, choosing energy-efficient appliances might cost more upfront, but they will save you money on utility bills over time.
On the flip side, cabinets are a great place to save. If your current layout works and the cabinet boxes are solid, a professional paint job can completely transform them for a fraction of the cost of new custom units. A fresh coat of paint and new hardware can make even the most dated cabinets look modern and new.
Find Items You Can Buy Used or Refurbished
This is where you can get creative and find some incredible deals. Shopping secondhand doesn't mean settling for less; it means finding unique pieces with character. Check online marketplaces, local reuse centers, and salvage shops for everything from lighting fixtures to sinks. You can often find high-end appliances for a steep discount by looking for floor models or open-box deals at major retailers. Planning yourkitchen remodelingproject around major sales events like Black Friday or Memorial Day is another pro move for snagging big-ticket items at a lower price. A little patience and persistence can lead to significant savings and a kitchen that feels truly one-of-a-kind.
Avoid These Costly Renovation Mistakes
A successful budget-friendly renovation isn’t just about finding deals—it’s also about knowing which pitfalls to avoid. A few common missteps can quickly turn a low-cost project into a major financial headache. By planning carefully and making informed decisions, you can protect your budget and ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish. Thinking ahead about potential issues with planning, layout, and installation will save you time, money, and a lot of stress down the road.
Sidestep Common Planning Pitfalls
The most common mistake is starting without a clear, realistic budget. It’s easy to get swept up in beautiful inspiration photos, but you need to ground your vision in what you can actually afford. Before you do anything else, figure out your total spending limit. Research the cost of similarkitchen remodelingprojects in the Washington, D.C. area to get a baseline. Once you have a number, stick to it. This will guide every decision you make, from the materials you choose to the scope of the work you undertake, preventing costs from spiraling out of control.
Understand Costly Layout Changes
If you want to keep your renovation affordable, try to work with your kitchen’s existing footprint. Moving plumbing for the sink or dishwasher, relocating gas lines for the stove, or rewiring for new appliance locations are some of the most expensive changes you can make. These tasks require specialized labor from plumbers and electricians and often involve opening up walls and floors, which adds significant costs. Instead, focus on cosmetic updates that don't require a major overhaul of the layout. You’ll be surprised how different your kitchen can feel with new finishes alone.
Prevent Measurement and Installation Errors
Small mistakes can lead to big expenses. One of the most critical steps is to measure everything—twice. Incorrect measurements for cabinets, countertops, or appliances can result in items that don’t fit, leading to costly re-orders and project delays. It’s also wise to build a buffer into your budget for surprises. Always set aside an extra 10% to 20% as a contingency fund. This will cover unexpected issues, like discovering old plumbing that needs replacing or finding water damage behind a cabinet, without derailing your entire renovation.
Choose the Right Contractor
When hiring help, the lowest bid isn't always the best choice. Get quotes from several contractors and compare them carefully. A price that seems too good to be true might signal lower-quality materials, inexperienced labor, or a quote that doesn't include the full scope of work. Look for a contractor with a strong portfolio, positive reviews, and clear communication. A dedicatedproject managercan be your greatest asset, ensuring every detail is handled correctly and that your project stays on schedule and within budget, giving you peace of mind.
Decide Between DIY and Hiring a Pro
One of the biggest decisions you'll make for your kitchen renovation is how much of the work you’ll do yourself. Going the DIY route can be incredibly rewarding and can save you a significant amount of money—up to 30% of the total cost, especially if you’re skilled at tasks like painting or installing a backsplash. It gives you complete control over the timeline and the fine details, letting you bring your vision to life exactly as you imagined it. However, it also requires a lot of time, patience, and a certain level of skill to get a professional-looking result. It's important to be honest with yourself about what you can realistically accomplish.
On the other hand, hiring a professional team for yourkitchen remodelingproject brings expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind. A pro handles the complex jobs like plumbing and electrical work, manages subcontractors, and ensures everything is up to code. This frees you up from the stress of managing every detail and helps avoid common pitfalls that can derail a project. The best approach is often a hybrid one, where you tackle the manageable DIY tasks you enjoy—like painting or swapping out hardware—and leave the heavy lifting and technical work to experienced contractors. It’s all about finding the right balance for your budget, timeline, and comfort level.
Know the Safety Rules and Permit Needs
Before you pick up a sledgehammer, it’s essential to understand which parts of your renovation require professional oversight. Major changes involving electrical wiring or moving plumbing lines aren't just complicated—they're often governed by strict local building codes for safety. Tackling these jobs without the right knowledge can lead to dangerous situations and costly repairs down the road. Always check your local D.C. regulations and permit requirements before starting. It’s also a smart move to set aside a contingency fund of about 10-20% of your total budget. This buffer will help you cover any unexpected issues that pop up, like discovering old plumbing that needs replacing once you open up a wall.
Partner with Pinkney Services for Expert Help
Even if you plan to handle some of the work yourself, partnering with a professional can make all the difference. A dedicatedproject managercan help you create a solid plan, ensuring your design is functional and your material choices fit your budget. This guidance can prevent costly mistakes and help you get the most value for your money. When you’re ready to bring in help, it’s always a good idea to get a few quotes. This helps you understand the market rate and see exactly what each contractor includes in their estimate. We’re confident in the value and craftsmanship we provide and are happy to walk you through a detailed proposal, so you know exactly where your investment is going.
Plan Smart to Keep Your Costs Down
A successful, budget-friendly kitchen renovation is all about smart planning. Before you even think about picking out paint colors or backsplash tiles, taking the time to map out your project strategically can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of headaches. It’s not about cutting corners on quality; it’s about making intentional choices that give you the most value for your money. A well-thought-out plan is your best defense against unexpected costs and delays that can derail even the most exciting project.
Thinking through your project from start to finish helps you anticipate challenges and make informed decisions. This means understanding your priorities, knowing what you can realistically accomplish within your budget, and creating a clear roadmap for the entire process. It's the difference between a smooth, exciting transformation and a stressful, budget-breaking ordeal. From preserving your kitchen’s layout to breaking the project into manageable stages, a little foresight goes a long way. With a solid plan in hand, you can approach yourkitchen remodelingproject with confidence, knowing you’re in control of the timeline and the budget from day one.
Keep Your Existing Layout
One of the most effective ways to keep your renovation costs in check is to work with your kitchen’s current footprint. Moving walls is a major expense, but the real budget-busters are relocating plumbing, gas, and electrical lines. Tearing into walls to move pipes for a sink or reroute wiring for an oven can quickly add thousands to your bill. By keeping your appliances and fixtures in their current locations, you avoid these complex and costly tasks. Instead, you can focus your funds on cosmetic updates that make a huge visual impact, like new countertops, a fresh backsplash, or updated lighting.
Phase Your Renovation to Spread Out Costs
Who says you have to do everything at once? If your dream kitchen feels financially out of reach right now, consider tackling the renovation in phases. This approach allows you to spread the costs over time, making the project much more manageable. You could start with high-impact, lower-cost updates like painting cabinets and replacing hardware. Then, a year later, you can move on to installing new countertops and a backsplash. Living with a partially finished space for a while might not be ideal, but it gives you time to save up and complete each stage without going into debt.
Create a Detailed Timeline
A detailed timeline is essential for keeping your project on track and on budget. It helps you coordinate everything from material deliveries to contractor schedules, preventing costly delays. But a good plan does more than just map out the steps; it also prepares you for the unexpected. It’s a smart rule of thumb to set aside a contingency fund of 10% to 20% of your total budget for unforeseen issues, like finding hidden water damage or needing to update old wiring. Having a professionalproject managercan be invaluable here, as they can create a realistic schedule and manage any surprises that come up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's a realistic budget for a "low-cost" kitchen renovation?While every project is different, a low-cost renovation focuses on making smart cosmetic updates rather than a full gut job. Think in terms of a few thousand dollars for impactful DIY projects like painting cabinets and updating hardware, or a bit more if you're hiring professionals to refinish cabinets and install a new countertop. The key is to work with your existing layout, as moving plumbing or electrical lines is what really drives up the cost.
If I can only afford one big change, what gives the most impact?Hands down, focus on your cabinets. They take up the most visual real estate in your kitchen, so changing them makes the biggest difference. If your cabinet boxes are in good shape, a professional paint job can completely transform the space for a fraction of the cost of replacing them. Paired with new, modern hardware, this single update can make your entire kitchen feel fresh and new.
Is it really worth it to keep my old cabinets instead of replacing them?Absolutely. As long as your cabinets are structurally sound and the layout works for you, keeping them is the single biggest money-saver in akitchen remodel. New cabinetry can eat up nearly a third of a typical renovation budget. By refinishing or painting what you already have, you free up thousands of dollars that can be reallocated to other areas, like a higher-quality countertop or hiring a pro for a flawless installation.
What parts of a kitchen remodel should I never attempt to DIY?You should always leave electrical and plumbing work to licensed professionals. Moving outlets, installing new wiring for lighting, or relocating water lines for a sink or dishwasher involves serious safety risks and must be done to code. Making a mistake here can lead to fire hazards, major leaks, and incredibly expensive repairs. It's the one area where trying to save money can cost you dearly in the long run.
How can I keep my kitchen functional during the renovation?Planning is everything. Before the demolition begins, set up a temporary kitchen station in another room, like your dining room or basement. Move your microwave, coffee maker, and a mini-fridge to this area. Stock up on paper plates and simple meals that don't require a stove. This small step makes living through the renovation process much more manageable and less disruptive to your daily life.
