Splurge or Save: Can You Guess?
We asked designer Jamie Gold to design plans for a kitchen remodel based on two different budgets� -- a value budget and a custom budget. Can you tell from these sketches which of the kitchen plans is more expensive?
The Value Kitchen
Choosing budget-friendly laminate flooring and solid-surfacing countertops over traditional hardwood and stone is a simple way to reduce costs.
APPLIANCES
CABINETRYcabinets PP430 in White, with plywood door panels $14,250
SURFACES
MISCELLANEOUSlights $701soap dispenser $43
Total cost: $28,476
Prices are estimates, excluding installation
Create a White Kitchen on a Budget
Tip No. 1. Dress up stock cabinetry. Customize basic white cabinets with pretty hardware, glass fronts, or crown molding .
Create a White Kitchen on a Budget
Tip No. 2. Add colorful accents. Pops of color in paint, backsplash tile, cabinetry hardware, or accessories add interest without committing to a bold palette.
Create a White Kitchen on a Budget
Tip No. 3. Include open shelving . A monotonous run of closed-door cabinets is typical in standard builder kitchens . To create a personalized look without breaking the bank, consider replacing some upper cabinets with open shelves. It?s a quick fix that packs a big style punch.
The Custom Kitchen
An island with all the bells and whistles enhances a kitchen?s style and function.
APPLIANCES
CABINETRY
SURFACES
MISCELLANEOUSpendants $1,137lights $819
Total cost: $63,480
Prices are estimates, excluding installation
Create a Custom White Kitchen
Tip No. 1. Pay attention to detail. Distinctive architecture and top-of-the-line materials distinguish a custom kitchen . Forgo upper cabinetry in favor of larger windows, or include a one-of-a-kind feature such as a pizza oven.
Create a Custom White Kitchen
Tip No. 2. Make it personal. A high-end kitchen design should be customized to the way you live. Think about how you like to cook, how much storage you need, and what kind of layout you prefer. And don?t forget that practical solutions can be stylish, too!
Create a Custom White Kitchen
Tip No. 3. Integrate appliances . Custom cabinetry panels disguise appliances to create a seamless, polished look.
Create a Custom White Kitchen
Tip No. 4. Don't stick with just white. To avoid a boring white-on-white look, be sure to include some contrasting textures and colors . Warm wood floors, a bright-color island or stools, or a patterned window treatment will help to balance a sea of white and give your room a unique look.
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Shop these kitchens and get the look in your own home.
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