When it comes to remodels, we all know that kitchens are the biggest money sink of all. That’s why we’re big fans of budget rehabs that make creative use of low-cost materials. But sometimes even these minimal kitchen makeovers can be out of range, especially if you’ve just spent your last red cent on purchasing your new home. (Guilty as charged.) In times such as these we have one piece of advice: Never underestimate the power of paint.
Don’t believe us that paint can resurrect a kitchen with cheap composite cabinets and laminate counters from design purgatory? Just take a look at some of our favorite transformations.
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Abbey Hendrickson of Aesthetic Outburst, described her kitchen in Oswego, New York, as “a perfect storm of 1970s renovation work.” She and her husband Phil conjured a more timeless look with a two-toned approach: dramatic black on the lower cabinets and airy white above. Brass hardware with Martha Stewart Living Bedford Brass Pulls and Knobs from Home Depot ($4.49 per pull), adds a touch of warm and complements the original green, formica counters, now rendered charming instead of dated. (See the full story Kitchen of the Week: A DIY Kitchen Overhaul for Under $500.)
Ready to paint your kitchen now? Here’s how: How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets: 5 Tips from a Master Painter. And don’t forget the paint: Architects’ 10 Favorite Warm White Paints, Architects’ 8 Favorite Warm Gray Paints.
Still looking for more budget kitchen makeover inspiration? We suggest Ikea Upgrade: The SemiHandmade Kitchen Remodel and Rehab Diary: Dream Kitchen for Under $3,000.
Finally, get more ideas on how to evaluate and choose kitchen cabinetry and hardware in our Remodeling 101 Guide: Kitchen Cabinets & Hardware.
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