The Itemized Kitchen Budget

Have you thought about remodeling your kitchen, but haven't been able to wrap your head around the budget?  

Here is a list to help you breakdown all the elements you will need to spend your money on.  This gives you a starting point so that you can research prices and see how things add up.  The most important factor to consider is the cost of labor. This can vary depending on who you hire to do the work. I suggest always padding the budget in this area because when tearing out old and putting in new, you never know what you will find. Things like mold, rotted wood, plumbing against code and electrical issues are often found once walls/floors are opened up.  Its better to prepare yourself ahead of time and hopefully have some money left at the end, than being stuck paying more than you originally budgeted.

I have added modest sample costs to the list below, keep in mind your project could exceed this sample budget.  Due to size of the room, quality of the products chosen, labor required and timeline, each kitchen remodel is different.   All kitchen remodels can be done on a small or large budget. It just comes down to the costs of the products you chose and the extent of work that your home needs. I am just trying to provide a realistic planning item list to help you realize all the expenses involved.

Budget:  $35,000-$40,000  

Sample based on a 12' x 12' room, 

with no additional construction planned.

1. Cabinets:  $8000  (NOTE: This price can range from $4000-$40,000+ due to product choice and room size).

2. Counter tops: (installation is included in its price):  $5000 (This can also vary depending on the material- this quote is based on a inexpensive grade of granite)

3. Appliances 

(these prices will vary significantly depending on brand and style- I have priced the basics)
    a. Fridge:     $1500
    b. Dishwasher:  $800
    c. Range :    $1250
    d. Microwave hood: $700

4. Flooring:  $2500 (price will vary depending on material chosen)

5. Sink:  $500

6. Faucet: $350

7. Labor
     a. Demo:  $1500
     b. Cabinet Install  :  $3000
     c. Flooring install:   $2000
     d. Electrical costs  (per code licensed electrician needed):  $1500
     e. Plumbing costs  (per code licensed plumber needed):     $1500

8. Decor costs
    a. Backsplash (tile and labor):  $750
    b. Paint (with labor): $400
    c. Light fixtures: $700

    d. Cabinet hardware:  $500 (this is a cost that most people don't consider)

9. Padding for the unexpected:  $6000

TOTAL:  $38,500

Other costs to consider:

A.  New windows

B.  Removing or adding walls

C.  New doorways

D.  Furniture (seating for an island, etc.)

E.  Decorative Ceiling Treatment

F.  Kitchen Design service: 

This can vary, but I cannot stress how important it is to work with a designer that knows what they are doing and listens to your needs.   Come to me, mention this article and I will give you $50 off my design fee! 

What does $2 million get you?

Recently, I was fortunate enough to attend an "Architectural tour" for local designers in downtown Boston.  Now, when you hear Architectural tour, what do you think?  I was expecting a walking tour pointing out the mixture of very old and very new building details in Boston.  What I got was a tour of a new condo built in the heart of downtown Boston.  It was a lovely location, with fantastic views, but just not what I expected.  Regardless, I took it for what it was and made the most of it.

As I viewed this expensive property (units ranging from $400,000 to $2 million) I couldn't help but have an opinion on the details or lack of details.   The spot had a breathtaking view and the $2 million dollar unit has a deck that is about 30 feet long by 10 feet wide. It just makes you want to have a deck party! From it you can see most of the city, the highway, the harbor, the park.  It is gorgeous.  However, the condo itself lacked the craftsmanship that I would expect for the price tag.  In discussing this with others, the consensus is that the builders were building for the location and figured that the buyers would remodel to their liking. I can understand this as a reason to build on the cheap but as far as design, shouldn't you always show things at your best! I would want to sell the space for its amazing design and the view be an additional benefit.  I might be a bit to harsh, maybe the designer does love their presentation, but I found it lackluster.  I do like some of the staging, but the bones of the place (white walls, white trim with visible gaps, plain bamboo floors & limited closet space) leave some design to be desired. I am not going voice my opinion of the kitchen, because I am obviously particular when it comes to that room.  Lets just say it had nice appliances.

 I've attached some photos for you to make your own determination, though I now realize the photos I have included show the amazing view and the areas of staging that I DID like.  It wouldn't have been any fun to take photos of the parts I didn't like.

The Pot Filler: Yes or No

My customers always want the latest gadgets to be featured in their new kitchen design. I attribute this to what they see on HGTV.   I have no issue with this, except that not every thing on TV makes sense for every  home.  One item that is always a popular request is to add a pot filler at the range or cook top.  Despite my initial thought that this is just another piece of decor,  I can see how this feature is handy. My issue with pot fillers is that I do not like the idea of a faucet that without a sink.  Plumbing can leak and in this case, leak all over your cook top!  Well, I have found a solution to my concerns.  The trough sink with a pot filler faucet! Its not practical for doing dishes due to its size, but its great to have a small sink at the cooking area. This allows you the pot filler function, and goes a step further by providing a narrow but helpful sink!  Especially when installed towards the back of the counter top, it doesn't take up much room at all. This could work for you too!

#kitchen design

Bring Spring into your home!

 Now that Spring is here, are you ready to refresh your living space? Here are a few things you can do to welcome spring into your home...

1. Fresh flowers: Add flowers to your grocery list. Use a pitcher or a non-traditional vase to keep a simple feel and let the flowers be the decoration.

2. Photos: Update the photos in the frames around your house for a fun change of atmosphere.

3. Create a new vibe: Summer is coming so throws and afghans can all be put away. Swap your accent pillows for ones in a different color palette. It really gives the room a new look! Check out Home Goods or Pier One for great deals on colorful throw pillows.

4. Dress down the floor: Put away my formal living room rug for the season and add a colorful braided rug. It provides a nice color change and it is lighter and casual which feels more in line with Spring!

5. Fresh paint: A fresh coat of paint is a big change in a small package. If you can dedicate a weekend to painting, you can give your space a fresh new vibe! Check out Sherwin Williams Letschipit.com for ideas!

6. Move dinner outside: There are so many options for table decor and outdoor dinnerware that you can choose from. Resin based products are a great material for this sort of thing. They are durable, easy to clean and hold their color. Turn the average Tuesday dinner into an evening out!

7. Planting: Add a new addition to your yard. Consider a new shrub or plant some bulbs. Try something that will add a pop of color next spring!

8. Its the little things: Some small changes that can make a difference without emptying your pockets... new soaps for the bathroom, new tissue boxes in a colorful motif. How about some new hand towels in a bright color to add a punch of color to your powder room.

9. Window treatments. Some window treatments can feel very seasonal. Bring that light and airy feeling of spring/summer by swapping out heavier curtains for sheers to allow that sunshine inside. This is not easy for every household but with a bit of shopping, you can find inexpensive options for this sort of thing. It also gives you the opportunity to have those curtains cleaned!

10. Sound. Spend sometime creating your spring/summer play list. Adding some new music or revisiting some of your older favorites can also change the mood of your home.

HAPPY SPRING!