Designing a Dream Kitchen on a Budget
Is the most important room in the house, your kitchen, in dire need of a makeover? Take this quiz to find out:
• Do you become physically ill from the dated cabinets, counters and tile every time you enter the kitchen? • Does your collection of take-out boxes exceed your number of plates? • Has National Geographic contacted you seeking an “Undiscovered Relics” tour of your kitchen? • Does your family pet growl, attack or hiss at any of the appliances because the appliance growls first? • Do your kids use your kitchen as a dumping ground for unwanted items? • Does your fridge require a Hazmat suit to open it?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, it’s time to remodel. Although taking on a project like a kitchen remodel may seem daunting, all a remodel takes is good planning. You don’t have to have a Trump sized bankroll to finance the remodel either. Try these hints to save you big on the costly items:
Buy pre-fabricated slabs
Buying raw slabs can cost upwards of $20-$75 per square foot, and that typically does not include fabrication. A pre-fabricated slab already has the edge detail, is cabinet-depth and usually comes with a 6 inch splash to match. Pre-fabricated slabs cost from $200 to $450 per slab and are ready to be installed.
New cabinets are possible
Years ago, renovating a kitchen on a budget meant keeping your existing cabinets and adding a coat of paint to them. These days, cabinets are much more affordable and are available in all sorts of styles and colors.
Don’t forget the hardware
A simple way to refresh your kitchen can be as easy as changing out the knobs and pulls on your cabinet doors and drawers. With endless finish options as well as styles, the look of your kitchen can change dramatically with a simple upgrade of the hardware.
Energy-efficient appliances can save in the long run
While new appliances can appear costly up front, the money you could save if they are energy efficient could save you more later on. Refrigerators, dishwashers and hoods all have energy-efficient options. Look for the Energy Star label.
Still need help? Come in to Hawaii Home Expo at 2933 Koapaka St. and ask for a friendly sales associates. The company offers cabinets, pre-fabricated slabs, hardware and appliances all under the same roof, as well as everything for every part of your home. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
HAWAII HOME EXPO
contact // 695-3976 (EXPO)
address // 2933 Koapaka St.
web // www.hawaiihomeexpo.com