Post by Stacey Walker. Stacey mostly works behind the scenes for Walker Woodworking, managing day to day operations, and marketing. Stacey has helped many clients create their dream space.
5 Ways to Stretch your Kitchen Renovation Budget
When contemplating a kitchen renovation comes budgeting. Cabinets, hardware, flooring, backsplash, and appliances, all of this has to be factored into the renovation, but how can you make it stretch? How do you get the best service and product for your kitchen? We have a few tips for you, after all we have been doing this for over 20 years and learned a few things along the way.
The Goal of a Budget
Budget is not just a word that is used during a renovation because it is part of the package, it is what helps a designer know what products should be selected for the project. Our experienced design team members understand that and are always looking for ways to help our clients achieve the layout they need for the budget they set. Here are some of the ways we do that.
1. Combine
When preparing to select items for your kitchen renovation, take a moment to think about what could be combined. There are a number of things that can be used multiple ways in your project such as:
- Countertops
- Tile
- Backsplash
These items can fulfill several design roles in the area, saving you additional shipping costs and such. Countertops can double as backsplash and tile is a multifunctional material. Talk to your designer about this and together you may be able to think outside the box on what you can combine.
2. Order from the same company
More and more companies are offering a large variety of items making it easier and more economical to order from the same place saving you shipping and handling fees. It also ensures that you will get the same color since different companies can have different hues of white and other colors plus they will offer the same types of styles making it easier to maintain a unified design in the end.
3. Reclaimed wood
Often during a renovation, especially on older homes, the homeowners have uncovered or salvaged some materials that could be used for their project such as wood. We have had the privilege to work on several projects where the homeowner provided us with reclaimed wood that we were able to incorporate into the final design with results that were stunning. Look at this one in particular where we built kitchen cabinets out of reclaimed pine wood. We enjoy this challenge and seeing the look of delight on our clients’ faces. Again, this is a great option to help stretch the kitchen renovation budget while still getting the look you want and quality you deserve.
4. Know where to save
The selection process can be the most exciting part of the renovation but also where extra money can be spent. Sometimes switching to a different hardware finish or backsplash tile can save you more than you think. This doesn’t mean that you can’t splurge and get what you always wanted but not every area or item needs to be the most expensive. Think about what is at the top of your list or what you want to be the focal point and place an emphasis there instead. If you want your backsplash to make a statement or need extra lighting because of limited natural sources then make sure these items are a priority. Don’t forget to price shop with different companies, sometimes a similar piece of hardware can be found for a lower price. By knowing what is a priority for you, you can save money during your planning and selection process. Our experienced design team is also here to help and guide you to the best value for your project.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
While it may seem contradictory, sometimes the best way to save money is to seek the help of professionals. They are constantly checking prices, aware of current trends, company products, and will know where to look quicker than you do. Because they do this every day they are up to date on what to look for to achieve the exact aesthetic you want and on budget. Experience is our ticket to savings, we know what you need and how to get it done according to your exact budget. One of our top priorities during the initial design meeting is to establish a budget for the style you want to accomplish. Communication is key during this period and throughout the design process, something we strive for excellence with every client.
Let’s get started
Our goal is to always help our clients accomplish their renovations on time and one budget. Your budget matters to us because we have all been through this process ourselves and know that it is one of the key areas in the process. It is what will guide and direct most of the choices made during your project which is why we always like to keep it in the forefront of our mind. Let us help you create a design that not only looks and works well for your family but finishes on budget.
