Your kitchen isn’t what it once was. There are scratches and dents all over, accumulated from daily use. The paint color you used to love now makes you want to vomit. Overall, the room feels dingy and old — not a place you want to spend time cooking and cleaning each day. It’s obviously time for a change. But what kind? And how much?
Kitchen remodeling comes in many forms. Today, we’re discussing two options — the kitchen remodel and the kitchen refresh — to help you decide which one is right for you!
What is the Difference Between a Kitchen Refresh and Remodel?
How Do I Freshen My Outdated Kitchen?
Kitchen Refresh Ideas
Full Kitchen Remodel Ideas
Kitchen Update Costs
Ready to Get Started? Call the Kitchen Experts
What is the Difference Between a Kitchen Refresh and Remodel?
Think of a kitchen refresh as a minor remodel. In a refresh, the changes you make are primarily cosmetic. You work to improve what you already have in your kitchen. For example, instead of buying new cabinetry, you might try remodeling old kitchen cabinets by adding glass fronts, repainting, or adding new pulls. Freshening up your kitchen could also look like installing a new backsplash, giving everything a fresh coat of paint, or refinishing your hardwood floors. You might invest in new appliances and lighting. A refresh doesn’t allow you to make significant changes or structural alterations; that’s where full kitchen remodeling comes in.
In a kitchen remodel, your imagination is the limit. You can knock down walls and completely redo your layout, add an island, or get all-new custom kitchen cabinets. If you really want to change the look and feel of your space, you might even consider raising the ceiling or installing more windows. New appliances, paint, and lighting are, of course, a given. During your planning, keep in mind that since kitchen remodels are much more extensive, they tend to be more expensive than the typical kitchen refresh cost.
How Do I Freshen My Outdated Kitchen?
The first thing you want to do when updating your kitchen is to stay away from outdated trends or fads that will go out of style quickly. Besides that, how you update your kitchen is up to you (and your budget). Here are some ideas you can steal, whether refreshing or remodeling!
Kitchen Refresh Ideas
A refresh may limit you more than a remodel, but you can still totally transform your kitchen. Try doing more with less by opting for lower-cost alternatives to make your money go further.
Check out these ideas for revamping your look and functionality:
- Repaint (walls or cabinets)
- Revamp cabinets with glass or mesh doors
- Add custom shelving solutions like lazy Susans and drawer dividers
- Install open shelves
- New faucet and cabinet hardware
- Put up wallpaper
- Refinish wood elements
- Make a statement with pendant lighting
- Replace the backsplash
- Round up your mugs, coffee maker, and grounds to create a cute coffee bar
- Redecorate and add new art to the walls
- Invest in new appliances
Full Kitchen Remodel Ideas:
If you’re investing in a major kitchen remodel, you may as well go all out. Kitchen remodeling encompasses all the refresh ideas we touched on above, in addition to these suggestions:
- Reconfigure the kitchen layout
- Open up the floor plan between the living room and kitchen
- Replace flooring
- Add windows
- New, custom cabinets
- Smart appliances or lighting
- Replace countertop with high-end materials like natural stone
- Install a new, double-tub sink
- Add an island (or two) with a sink or custom storage
- Customize storage
- Create a walk-in or butler’s pantry
Kitchen Update Costs
For some, whether you go with a kitchen remodel or refresh comes down to the financials. Others wonder, “Should I update my kitchen before selling?” and contemplate spending the money involved accordingly. So let’s talk about how much these different options cost.
It’s important to note that the cost of home improvements ranges widely depending on your home type, condition and age, and updating goals. Generally, though, a kitchen refresh costs less than a kitchen remodel.
A refresh can end up costing you as little as a few thousand dollars. According to the 2022 Cost vs. Value Report figures for Louisville, a minor kitchen remodel (also known as a refresh) costs an average of $26,013.
A full kitchen remodel, on the other hand, costs $75,137. And, if you want to go for an upscale remodel, you’re looking at an average cost of $147,059.
For a more specific breakdown of kitchen costs, download our Kitchen Cost Guide.
Ready to Get Started? Call the Kitchen Experts
Hopefully, by now, you know whether you want a kitchen remodel or refresh and are ready to take the next step in your improvement journey. Even if you aren’t, it’s a good idea to start talking to a kitchen remodeling expert like Louisville Handyman & Remodeling. We will help you bring your kitchen from dark and dreary to bright and cheery — no matter your budget or refresh vs. remodel preference!
