Starting a kitchen makeover is a very exciting project, but before you start stressing over budget, here’s the best part:
It can also be affordable!
The secret to a kitchen makeover on a budget is to keep it simple - instead of buying a new countertop, you can paint over the one you already own; instead of painting the walls to change the look, paint the cabinets or install a tile backsplash; or if you’re satisfied with your cabinets and countertops, simply decorate with plants, fruits, vintage memorabilia, DIY containers… the list goes on.
And of course you came here for a list, so let’s jump right into our best picks for a kitchen makeover on a budget!
“Nothing is better than going home to family and eating good food and relaxing.” - Irina Shayk
Backsplash Tiles

This is a famous kitchen makeover idea for being affordable, easy to apply, and makes a huge difference!
The possibilities are literally endless - you can go for something to:
- Match your current color scheme, or your walls
- Complement the style of your kitchen better
- Bring life into an otherwise bland-looking kitchen
- Create a particular style you like better
It’s up to you! And hey, here are some awesome examples!
Decorate with Plants

Decorating is probably the best way to upgrade the look of your kitchen without having to spend too much - in some cases, you can even do it for free. As far as kitchen makeover ideas go, it doesn’t get any cheaper!
Above you can see how a few plants do a great job of complementing a rustic-looking kitchen - it feels like you let nature in your home!
Here are some things you can use to decorate with:
- Plants (like the image above)
- Fruits (in a basket)
- New light fixture(s)
- A colorful stool
- An upgrade of your handles and pulls
Related: The Top 7 Easy Kitchen Cabinet Makeover Before and After Ideas
Bold Accents

This is great if you already have a neutral or single-colored kitchen because bringing a new bold color into the mix immediately creates contrast!
The example above is perfect: see how the kitchen is pretty much all white? Ergo, the bold orange choice for the stools, flowers, and the tiny dishes on the shelves adds a sense of warmth to the interior. And voilá: kitchen makeover on a budget, complete.
Paint the Cabinets

One of the coolest ways to upgrade your kitchen is to perform a kitchen cabinet makeover by simply painting them - the before and after is mind-blowing!
You don’t have to worry about buying anything new except for the paint (maybe new handles and pulls), and the painting itself can be done effortlessly by a good professional or done by you with the right preparation!
If you’re interested, head over to the DIY Network to learn how to paint kitchen cabinets!
Paint Your Countertop

Eager for a new kitchen countertop? Consider painting the one you have instead of purchasing a new one! And the best part:
You can totally do it yourself!
Countertops are very easy to paint over, as they don’t require nearly as much preparation (or experience) as painting walls or cabinets. To get the marble look you see above, you would need:
- wood filler (optional, only if your wood countertop is damaged)
- black primer
- granite paint
- sponge
- roller brush
And you’re pretty much set to start painting - check out the full tutorial here to learn the specifics!
Go for Open Shelves

See those cabinets over there? Yeah, they used to have doors. The argument in favor of open shelving is simple:
They make reaching for stuff a lot more convenient AND it opens up (no pun intended) crazy possibilities for adding personality to your kitchen!

For example, the one above used to have no backing color - after all, no one cares about the inside of cabinets that stay closed, right? Well, now that they’re open, you can add fabric backing in any color or pattern you want.
In the end, it feels like you removed stuff from your kitchen and it comes out better than before.
If you like this idea, check out how Pretty Handy Girl did it!
Did you like this article? Are you planning on giving your kitchen a budget-friendly makeover? Let us know in the comments below and don’t forget to leave us a like on Facebook for more inspiration and tips on your home improvement projects!
Related links:
6 Before and After Bathroom Makeovers That Will Blow Your Mind
12 Insanely Clever Organization Hacks To Improve Your Life
10 Brilliant Ideas To Make Your Kitchen Look More Expensive