Thursday, June 24, 2010

Budget Kitchen "Remodel"

We just completed a very simple remodel on the kitchen in our bungalow. Because money is tight for us right now, we decided to simply refresh the kitchen with new paint, knobs, sink, and appliances instead of making any big changes. Ultimately, I would like to live with the kitchen for a little while before making any big decisions such as adding more cabinetry or moving fixtures.

Here is what we did:

*Split one large window into two new ones, for more of a craftsman look. Added new moldings to blend with the old ones.

*Replaced an old gray dented up baseboard heater with a new white one.

*Replaced shiny brass cabinet handles with satin nickel knobs and pulls.

*Painted walls, trim, and cabinetry all the same color. This room is small and dark, so I was hoping this would make it seem bigger and brighter. Color is Pure White by Sherwin Williams.

*Replaced a shallow stainless steel sink and leaking faucet with a cast iron sink and new faucet. The sink, with faucet, was only $15 at the Olympia ReStore. Also fixed leaking plumbing lines under sink.

*Replaced fluorescent "shop-grade" ceiling light with brushed nickel fixture.

*Fridge is a Kenmore Pro model that was on clearance at Sears. We needed a counter-depth model, and this was the only one we were able to find that would work for us. We will have a pantry and chest freezer in the room right next to the kitchen, which also serves as our laundry room. This is kind of a weird arrangement, but the only option we could decide on that would run us less than $1000. (Why are counter depth units so darned expensive anyways, when they are technically smaller?!)

Anyways, it still needs more work, and yes I put a cover over that sink vent hole after the pictures were taken. But otherwise we will "make do" for now until we decide exactly how we want to tackle the rest of the renovations.

06/23/2010
06/23/2010
06/23/2010
06/23/2010
06/23/2010