Tired of the look and feel of your kitchen and want to try something different or at least update your look? If so, you’re not alone, kitchen remodels are one of this country’s most popular home improvement projects. Unfortunately they are also amongst the most expensive improvements you can make to your home.

According to statistics the average kitchen remodel averages $50,000 to $60,000, but don’t let that figure worry you or turn you off remodeling. There are plenty of simple things you can to fix up a kitchen at a fraction of the average cost.

New Paint

Nothing is like fresh paint as it offers the most bang for your remodeling buck. If you want to make your kitchen warm and inviting, go with neutral colors or use bright and bold colors to help make the room feel hip and trendy. Many paint companies will provide you complete color combinations for wall, trim and accent colors.

Not only can you re-paint your walls, you can re-paint unsightly cabinets as well, high gloss works best for the kitchen.

Brightening up the Lighting

Older kitchens typically have a single fluorescent tube in the middle of the room that doesn’t provide much light. Newer kitchens may have one generic dome shaped light. Replace them with a trendy or modern lighting fixture or recessed lighting strategically placed to improve lighting. Under cabinet lights that highlight your counters are also a nice touch.

Change the Countertops

If you countertops that are old, dated or just plain unattractive then why not upgrade them. Granite and marble add beauty and elegance to any kitchen but because of their expense and need for greater upkeep and care, there’s now a renewed interest in ceramic tile and the many looks tile offers as well as synthetic countertop materials that combine both style and function.

Swap the Faucet

Faucets are easy to change, and by doing away with your plain, boring stainless steel set you can make a huge design statement. These days, faucets are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Among your choices, single handle, dual handle, wall mounted and pullout spray. The most popular colors include shiny chrome, brushed nickel, black iron, vintage-look aged bronze, copper, brushed brass, and more.

Swap the Sink

Sinks can make a design statement of their own by complimenting your countertops and faucets Among the materials gaining in popularity in modern kitchens, cast iron, stone, metal, wood and ceramic.

Change Out the Cabinet Hardware

Have those 1970s era knobs on your cabinets? Get rid of them! Visit the kitchen section of your local home improvement store and you’ll find a display with dozens of different options to choose from.

No matter what you decide to do, it doesn’t have to be expensive!