Bungalow on a Budget

A Kitchen Remodel Can Be Simple, Stylish, and Affordable

A recently widowed client’s decision to simplify her life included moving into a smaller home. As with any new home, many projects needed to be completed, and her kitchen topped the list. And like many homeowners, her budget was limited but we knew we could create a beautiful, functional, and budget-friendly kitchen remodel that she would love.

Before Photos
Before photo of white painted cabinets and tile countertops, both in need of a makeover
In Need of a Makeover
Before photo of the existing beige tile floor which had to remain
Existing Floor to Work Around
Before photo of tile countertops and worn, white cabinets
Tile Counters
Before photo of the dated and mismatched appliances
Dated Appliances

One key constraint guided our design with this project. Existing beige flooring ran throughout the house, which meant changing it would break the bank. Restricting major alterations to the layout or walls proved to be a plus for the budget but required a creative approach to storage. Our primary goal: maximize accessible storage within the small kitchen’s existing footprint.

Maximizing Storage in a Small Kitchen

Eclipse Linear tile backsplash with blue and green glass tiles.
Deep drawers

To create more usable storage space, we installed deep drawers for the majority of the under-counter storage with a couple of roll-out trays next to the fridge for diverse storage. Upper cabinets with adjustable shelves round out the storage capacity. Opting to combine her microwave with the hood and place it above the cooktop, our client made the practical choice that prioritized maximizing counter and cabinet space.

Cabinets in a Butterscotch stain with white appliances in a newly remodeled kitchen
Maple cabinetry in a Butterscotch stain

Increasing kitchen function even more, we included a pull-out for trash and ample storage for bakeware and trays, ensuring that everything has a place and is conveniently accessed. StarMark Crew Collection’s Maple Stratford door style in a Butterscotch stain maintained the budget while still achieving the warm, hospitable style the client desired.

Choosing Budget-Friendly Countertops

Maple Stratford cabinet door with Butterscotch stain on a budget-friendly kitchen remodel
Granite counters can be budget-friendly

Engineered quartz countertops are a popular trend but they are not always the most budget-friendly option. One way to get the most value for your countertop budget is to consider granite. Pricing for this material often bunches in the middle and upper categories, leaving very few economical choices. Some natural stone selections, including granite, can be more readily found at competitive prices.

Choosing this route, our client selected a Santa Cecilia granite with earthy, brown tones and black accents. White appliances brighten up the space and create a casual softness in the narrow kitchen. A slide-in range opens up the short run of counter space. By removing the appliance splash and relocating the controls to the front, unnecessary visual bulk was eliminated, which made the cooking niche look as large as possible.

Adding a Touch of Color and Texture

Santa Cecilia granite countertops and Eclipse linear tile backsplash in a remodeled kitchen on a budget
A tile backsplash finishes the look

In the backsplash, the homeowner chose Eclipse Linear tile in the “Tranquility” finish. A mixed-media tile which includes subtly greyed blue and green glass tiles mixed with tumbled stone, punctuating the informal, cozy feel the new homeowner desired. The term ‘budget-friendly’ is always relative, but this kitchen remodel perfectly fit the bill.

Ready to start your own budget-friendly kitchen remodel? Contact us for an appointment.