kitchen makeover on a budget - counters and tile

This is part II of how to beautify your kitchen on a budget.  I will be focusing on counter tops and backsplash options.  Many times kitchen cabinets are in good shape, but the kitchen needs an upgrade or a change.  An excellent way to add glamour and value to your kitchen is to add natural stone, solid surface or butcher block as your counter top and tile to the backsplash. Upgrading the surfaces in your kitchen can make an ordinary builder kitchen take on a custom designed look.

Granite counter top

Natural stone, such as granite, marble or sandstone are beautiful and they add an organic element to a kitchen.  Granite is the most popular, because of its durability and the varied colors that are available.  Marble and sandstone have unique looks, but are more porous and suseptible to staining.  I don't think that means you shouldn't use them.  It means you should place them where there isn't as much wear and tear.  The final option is butcher block, this wood surface will add warmth and richness to a kitchen.  The best use would be to mix the butcher block with another more durable counter top surface.  Possibly saving the butcher block for a breakfast island or pantry area.  Another money saving option is to put the pricery counter tops where it is most visible.  For example, placing granite on the center island and using a neutral formica on the remaining counter top around the kitchen.  All  the attention is drawn to the island and the surrounding counters become less important.

Butcher Block Island

Solid surface counters are another sleek alternative to natural stone or wood.  They are made of ground quartz mixed with a resin.  It can be created into many colors and the counter is more uniform in color and design.  Colors vary from bright solid red to natural stone looks.  The material is durable and requires little maintenance.

Once the counter top has been selected a tile backsplash adds detail and interest to your kitchen.  There are many tile options in varying price ranges to suit your budget.  It is also an opportunity to add decorative tiles or interesting patterns and designs.  It is important to get samples of your counter top and tile selections and try them out at home.  Colors can appear very different at home than in the showroom.  Make your decision with all the elements sitting next to each other to ensure a cohesive decision.

  

Decorative tile backsplash

If you have any questions please comment below or contact me on my Facebook Fan Page at Facebook.com/dottywymandesigns. I would love the hear from you. I look forward to writing about more ideas for your custom kitchen.

Dotty Wyman is the principal designer at www.dottywymandesigns.com.