The kitchen is the central area in most homes. According to Showcase Kitchens owner, John Starck, “successful kitchen design is about the details – functional flow and personalized to each family’s needs". More than a place for food storage, kitchens are a place for warm meals and for conversation with family and friends. There is much to think about when it comes to what homeowners should put into their kitchens — utility, preferences, aesthetics, and of course, this all costs money. We’ve put together a list of where to splurge or save, so you can achieve your dream kitchen within a budget.

Before You Decide: Set a Budget for Your Kitchen Remodel

Comb through stores or the internet for the latest prices on kitchen components from brands you like. Put together a list of what you’ll want to remodel or purchase and set a fixed budget that includes each of your choices. An AskMoney article on budgeting recommends creating a timeline for reaching these goals as it can help you keep track of expenses. You can tighten the budget if you feel like you’re running short for purchases further down the line. On the flip side, you’ll be able to allocate extra money to other things on your list if you happen to find good deals.

Countertops: Splurge

Countertops are likely the first thing you notice when you walk into a kitchen. In active kitchens, they take daily punishment. Your budget and usage will determine the countertops you have. Man-made products such as quartz are hearty and cost half the price of granite and other natural stone, but you won’t get the same feel, design, and functionality out of them. So cut corners on other elements, countertops would be a splurge for us, and hopefully, you will consider sealing it for lasting beauty.

Flooring: Save

In our post ‘Five Essential Elements of Your Custom Kitchen’, we mentioned that there is also much to consider when choosing your flooring. There are slip, resistance, durability, design, and maintenance requirements to factor in. Luxurious materials like marble and hardwood flooring of course have their timeless beauty, but these aren’t required for a beautiful kitchen. You can opt for more affordable options like ceramic or porcelain tiles for a classic look, or polished concrete for a modern, brutalist feel.

Cabinets: Splurge

What you’ll actually want to splurge on are the ergonomic functionality and space-saving features of modern cabinets. RICKI’s survey on kitchen budgeting choices notes that 62% of respondents said they regretted skimping on kitchen cabinetry. You’ll want to hone into cabinet construction and opt for a clean, classic style that can stand the test of time. Not-so-new innovations like soft-close doors and pull-out or rotating pantries are widely available in all price points, but you'll find that with better custom cabinets you get a more luxurious look, customized interiors, and a longer life than more affordable options.

Appliances: Splurge

Good appliances are the heart and soul of a great kitchen. You'll want to make sure they will provide lots of utility and can withstand everyday use, so don't skimp out on a high-quality gas cooktop and range hood. Choose to invest in energy-efficient appliances—while they may cost you more at the beginning, the energy costs they'll save you will make a big difference. Generally, good stainless steel appliances are most homeowners’ go-to when investing in appliances.

Backsplash: Save

The backsplash can be another focal point in your kitchen, and there are plenty of affordable and attractive options. Manufacturers have been creating sheet porcelain that looks very close to marble or other natural stone that can give your backsplash a luxurious look without breaking the bank. The key lies in proper installation and ensuring that your backsplash will have a seamless finish. Natural stone or neutral-colored tiles are timeless options and can age well with your kitchen.

With a wide range of options, it may be hard to strike a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and value — but with our tips, you’ll be able to factor all of those within your budget. For any kitchen and home inquiries, do contact Showcase Kitchens today!

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Written by Alessa Hendricks