Give your kitchen a mini-makeover

Want to freshen up the look of your kitchen without breaking the bank? Here are some suggestions to help you accomplish just that. (Adapted from Consumer Reports, Aug. 2008)

1. Replace the backsplash: the wall space between the top of the counter and the bottom of the cupboards is a great place to add color or contrast without requiring big bucks. Consider new paint, ceramic tile, glass tile or stone.

2. Spruce up the cabinets: New cabinets often involve major expense, but if your existing cupboards are structurally sound, you can breath new life into them with a chemical refinisher, stain or paint. Add inexpensive organizers to increase accessibility and capacity. Consider adding crown molding to the top for a touch of class.

3. Re-use, Recycle, Refresh: Scout out salvage shops in your community &/or online for reusable (and steeply discounted) items such as stone countertops, hardwood flooring, kitchen cupboards, and more. Try www.FreeCycle.org, www.SharingIsGiving.org, and www.FreeSharing.org, for starters.

4. Upgrade Appliances: If your appliances are near the end of their useful lives, this might be the right time to replace them with new energy efficient models. Check with your utility company to see if it offers incentives and/or assistance in hauling away the old units.

5. Update Lighting Fixtures: Nothing dates a kitchen more than fluorescent lighting. Replace it with undercabinet task lights, pendant lamps and/or modern track lighting.

6. Add an Island: If space allows, consider adding an island (either stationary or on casters), or refinishing an existing island. Islands add work/ storage space, freeing up other counter areas.

If you need more ideas/resources, give me a call. 206-708-9800