Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
What are some cheap ways to update an old kitchen? The contractor I talked to said the
project he suggested could hit $20,000.
My first suggestion is a maid. Then, maybe, an organizer.
Why a maid?
You may hate the kitchen because it is dirty, with caked in dirt, grease and grime. A $300
super-scrubbing could make it look like new.
I guess a much cleaner floor would look somewhat new.
And scrubbing the tile to get it brilliant may save you the cost of replacing it. If
that doesn’t work, replace the surfaces of your appliances.
New appliances would be cheaper than a total rebuild.
You can pop off panels on refrigerators and dishwashers, replacing the panels while keeping
the appliances. You could switch to a gold or metallic finish instead of your avocado
color scheme today.
The contractor was suggesting putting in an island.
Why not save on the contracting cost and get a butcher table or baker’s stand. It’s
cheaper than installing an island, and you could use the surface for anything – including
cooking.
Why does a contractor quote so many expensive projects?
Why don’t you put a fox in charge of counting the hens in the hen house?
I don’t know, and I’m allergic to eggs.
The contractor makes money on the project. The more he convinces you to do, the more
money he makes.
You mentioned hiring an organizer.
There are times we think we need more space in the kitchen, when the actual solution is
less stuff. Maybe you could put organizers into the cabinets to better use the space
you have, or get advice on which small appliances are duplicated and can be tossed.
I got a few of those appliances as wedding presents.
Keep the photos, not the breadmakers you don’t use.