Kitchen remodeling can be costly, especially if you're envisioning the kitchen of your dreams. You have to consider materials, colors, appliances, finishes, and more, and while you may want to choose the highest quality in everything, that often means the most expensive. But there are some things you don't need to spend money on. Whether you're starting from scratch or updating your current kitchen design, knowing where to spend and where to save is key to staying within your budget.
But it's not as simple as choosing cheaper kitchen appliances over more expensive ones. A kitchen remodel is one of the most expensive projects in your home and requires careful consideration. A successful kitchen design must strike the perfect balance between aesthetics, practicality, and cost.
We spoke to the experts to find out how much a kitchen costs and where you can save. From ideas for creating a kitchen on a budget to hard-hitting advice on what's worth investing in, the experts reveal how to create a well-designed space that looks great now and will last.
How to make a jigsaw kitchen
Dubbed the “jigsaw kitchen,” experts have noted that homeowners are increasingly choosing to combine premium worktops with affordable cabinetry when remodeling their kitchens.
Combining expensive and inexpensive elements has proven to be a cost-effective solution to achieve a beautiful kitchen on a budget. Knowing where to spend and where to save in your kitchen can help you achieve a durable, long-lasting design while keeping your expenses low.
1. Invest in a quality workbench
(Image courtesy of Harvey Jones X Swoon)
All the experts, including Abstract House design director Samer Obeid, recommend “investing in a quality work surface to ensure it lasts.”
Whether we're cooking and dining, entertaining, working remotely or simply socialising, our kitchen counters “take a beating in every aspect of everyday kitchen life”, says Jonathan Stanley, VP of marketing at Caesarstone UK. “Not only do they need to be able to withstand heat, scratches and stains, they also need to be easy to clean and maintain.”
Not only are your kitchen worktops the most used part of your kitchen, they also take up a large part of the visual space. “The design you choose will have a huge impact on the look, feel and durability of your kitchen, so it's important to choose a worktop that suits your ever-changing style and needs,” adds Jonathan Stanley.
2. Choose handmade hardware
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/Fiona Walker-Arnott)
It's often the little details that make a kitchen look its most luxurious, and hardware is a great place to spend a little extra since it often doesn't cost that much to begin with.
“Opting for beautifully handcrafted, gold-plated hardware is a great way to upgrade your kitchen without spending a fortune,” says Samar Obeid. Custom or premium door handles, light switches and other finishes will not only make your space feel more premium, but they can also make it look unique compared to a kitchen with standard finishes purchased from your local DIY store.
3. Home appliances with excellent cost performance
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/Rachael Smith)
It's worth investing in quality appliances that you use every day. When choosing your cooker, fridge or microwave, for example, you shouldn't compromise on performance. Rob Streather, director of Shape London, suggests “consider energy-efficient models that will save you money on long-term running costs and are better for the environment.”
Your appliances should also cater to the daily needs of you and your family. If you have a large family and need a lot of space in your fridge, choose the best large capacity fridge-freezer for you. Do you love entertaining guests? A dual oven might be a must.
4. High-quality kitchenware
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/Chris Snook)
Don't forget the details. When designing a kitchen, it's easy to get distracted by the big details, but it's the everyday essentials that make the biggest difference to how you use the space. Anthony Joseph, CEO and Founder, Joseph and Joseph, He recommends investing in a good knife set: “Not only will having a good knife set save you time and effort when cooking, it will also make the cooking process much more enjoyable.”
Small appliances that you use regularly can also be a good investment, especially if they can double as décor. But, says Julia Kendell of Kendell+Co, an interior design expert at the Home Building & Renovating Show, “It's easy to be fooled by the latest appliance that claims to change your life, but consider whether it will actually be a good investment once the novelty wears off.”
Instead, Samer Obeid suggests, “Choose durable, highly rated appliances that are built to last without spending a lot of money.”
Artisan Mixer Tilt Head 4.8L
Joseph Joseph Elevate Knife Slim Block
ProCook Cast Iron Casserole Set
5. Choose affordable cabinets
(Image courtesy of Caesarstone/Philippa Bloom Ross)
“There are many kitchen companies that offer high-quality cabinetry at a relatively low cost,” advises Jonathan Stanley.
Cabinets should be a lower priority because they see less wear and tear than heavily used areas like work surfaces and can be easily updated without a full renovation: “Cabinet can be quickly updated with just a lick of paint or new handles,” he adds.
6. Save on Splashbacks
(Image courtesy of Walls & Floors)
Kitchen tiles and splashbacks are surprisingly affordable, offering a fantastic opportunity to save money whilst still achieving a high quality look.
There are plenty of stylish options out there that look a lot more expensive than they actually are. If you want to save even more money, you could limit the number of tiles or splashbacks you use. Realistically, you only need a few rows of stain-catching tiles or splashbacks over your countertops, and the rest of the walls can simply be painted in a coordinating colour.
7. Find affordable lighting
(Image courtesy of Future PLC/David Parmiter)
Kitchen lighting ideas can make a big difference in any room in your home. Choosing decorative pendant lights can make the space look luxurious. Dimmable lights can add drama where you need it. But in the kitchen, simpler, more affordable task lights work much better.
“It's really important to have task lighting when needed, and dimmable options for calmer evenings and entertainment areas. Instead of having a lot of complicated circuits and schemes, layer cheaper and more expensive lighting options to create an attractive, dreamy effect,” says Julia Kendell.
Keko Rechargeable Touch Table Lamp
Otoro Recycled Glass Pendant
FAQ
What would be a good investment for your kitchen?
“Now more than ever, we need to consider the environment,” says Rob Streather, and investing in eco-friendly materials in your kitchen design will ensure sustainability.
“Choosing more expensive renewable resources such as cork, wood and plywood rather than cheap plastics will help your kitchen look great and last longer – and this also includes investing in the latest technology.”
Streather recommends buying “green appliances that will save you money on energy costs and are good for the environment.” Darren Watts, showroom development and design director at Wren Kitchens, agrees: “Investing in and installing the latest trendy appliances, such as instant-boil water taps, self-cleaning ovens and eco-friendly dishwashers, will improve the overall functionality of your kitchen and impress guests and potential buyers.”
What will add value to your kitchen?
Kitchen island ideas can increase the value of your kitchen space, especially if you pay attention to the work surface.
“Kitchens continue to evolve from purely functional spaces to hubs for socializing, relaxing and working remotely,” explains Jonathan Stanley.
The kitchen island has taken centre stage – it's no longer just an additional workspace for food preparation, but the main work surface for doing all of this. Investing in a quality kitchen island with a premium worktop will not only transform the way you use your space, but it will also last.
“If you're looking to sell your home, a kitchen island will certainly add to its appeal,” adds Darren Watts. “The island design appeals to most families as it allows for flexible layouts for cooking, eating and socializing.”
If you were to spend money on a jigsaw kitchen, what features would you prioritise?
