You did it! You installed granite in your kitchen and you are thrilled with the end result. But now what? If you are like most people, deciding what DIY projects to tackle in your kitchen is daunting…there are so many options and it can be confusing to decide what projects will net you the most bang for your buck.
Whether you are preparing to sell your home of if you are hoping to make improvements so that your kitchen matches with your long-term design vision, the DIY projects below are a great place to start. Not only are they all simple and cost-effective, but they will also highlight your granite countertops and create a polished finished room that you will be proud of.
- Add A Beautiful Backsplash
The DIY Network is a treasure trove of renovation ideas that are simple, easy on the budget, and beautiful. They recommend Tin-Tile backsplash installation to instantly modernize your kitchen and add incredible character, and we couldn’t agree more! The sheen of these retro tiles goes well with any color or grain of polished granite. Depending on the size of your kitchen, you should expect to pay no more than $100-$200 to complete the entire project, and – unless you have to remove existing backsplash tiles – you can expect this to be a very quick project. If you do have an existing backsplash, never fear. Removing those old, dated tiles is time consuming, but it is not a difficult process – you will just need to use a hammer and a flat bar to gently pry each tile away from the wall and then you will need to use a scraper to smooth out the remaining adhesive on the wall. Then you are ready to apply your new backsplash!
- Swap Out Your Drapes
Many homes now feature a breakfast nook, complete with beautiful windows. If your home allows for it, consider adding window treatments or drapes to these windows to create added visual appeal. Opt for solid colors versus patterns to keep the look simple; depending on your personal taste, you could add flair with the type of fabric used, including velour, canvas, or basic cotton.
- Consider A Chandelier
Granite is elegant; to play that up and highlight the natural beauty and elegance of your counters, consider replacing your tired, bland lighting with a chandelier. You can get as fancy or be-jeweled as you like, creating custom ambiance that will wow anyone that comes to visit. LampsPlus.com offers an incredibly broad variety of lighting options to choose from, ranging in price from super affordable ($25-$150) to incredibly fancy and expensive ($1000 and up).
- Install New Hardware
Perhaps the simplest and most affordable of all home improvements, changing out your cabinet hardware can make an instant and dramatic impact on your kitchen. Take care to select a style and color that will pair well with your countertop, highlighting the natural beauty and unique grain and color of your granite. Keep in mind the overall aesthetic you are going for, and don’t be afraid to swap out larger hardware pieces as well, including door handles and switch plates.
- Swap Out Your Sink
While this DIY project requires a bit more time, skill, and money than the other projects listed here, we included it because of the incredible “wow-factor” that a new sink can bring to any kitchen, especially when paired with a beautiful granite countertop. Depending on the color of your granite, you can go for a stainless steel sink or even a beautiful stone sink in the popular farmhouse style. Be sure to keep in mind that you may need to enlarge the hole in your counter to accommodate a sink of a different size or shape, which might require the skills and tools of a professional.
- Consider Your Accessories
Many people try to keep their countertops as clear as possible, but there are always the inevitable items that merit placement on this valuable workspace. This includes knife blocks, coffeemakers, and even spice racks. Why not use these items as a chance to make a design statement? After all – no one says that your appliances or kitchen accessories have to be boring? Check out these fantastic ideas over at CountryLiving.com for some ideas, including custom-painted knife blocks and custom fridge magnets.
- Go Big – Update Your Appliances
Sure, appliances are definitely not cheap, BUT they are incredible easy to install, especially since most home stores deliver them right to your home and can install them for you in a matter of minutes. If you have been looking for an excuse to get a new refrigerator or update your oven, now is the time! To soften the financial blow, consider listing your used appliances (providing they are in good working condition) on a site like Craigslist – the money you get for selling your old kitchen goodies can be put toward the cost of whatever new appliance or product you have your heart set on.