Renovating a kitchen can be an expensive job, especially if you are looking to replace your units. That said, there are many solutions that can allow you to get a stunning kitchen island on a budget. Read on for 7 budget-friendly kitchen island ideas.
Enhance Your Home’s Functionality and Style: Budget-Friendly Kitchen Ideas
1. Repurpose existing furniture
Instead of forking out for a brand new kitchen island, why not repurpose an old cabinet, sideboard, or dining table as a rustic kitchen island? With a bit of sanding and a coat of food-safe wax, varnish, or paint, this can be a cost-effective way to get that kitchen island you have always dreamed of.
2. Upcycle a butcher’s block (or two)
If you have a smaller space, a butcher’s block can be a great way to get a kitchen island, and it can be easily moved for times you need the full space. For larger kitchens, you can double-up on your butcher’s blocks and arrange them next to one another to create a flexible kitchen island.
3. Give your existing island a refresh
Already have a kitchen island? Don’t worry, you can give it a new lease of life with a quick refresh. Some DIY ideas include tiling or panelling the side, painting the sides in a different colour, or replacing the countertop with a new material. However, if you aren’t comfortable with these things, you can also get your local handyman to do it for you.
4. Take out the drawers for open shelving
Open shelving is super in at the moment. That said, a lot of kitchen islands tend to have cabinets and drawers, which might be one of the reasons why you are looking for a new addition to your kitchen. However, a straightforward way to create the feel of open shelving is to take the doors and drawers out of your existing island. With some wood filler, and a quick sand an paint, it’ll look like a brand-new unit.
5. Upgrade the hardware and gadgets
Upgrading the hardware and gadgets on (or in) your kitchen island is a fantastic and cost-effective way to renovate your kitchen. A kitchen island is whatever you make of it – so make it different! Changing the feet or handles can utterly transform your existing unit on a budget. Or, you might consider upgrading the gadgets you display on your kitchen island. For example, there are a multitude of microwaves available that can either sit atop your island or be built into the unit itself.
6. Opt for a freestanding unit
If you are still looking to purchase a new kitchen island, this tip is for you. As a general rule of thumb, you will find that freestanding kitchen island units are often the most budget-friendly options on the market. These pieces are often multifunctional too, so you can rest assured you’ll get your use out of it.
7. Buy second hand
Following on from the above, another way you can make the purchase of a kitchen island more affordable is to shop second-hand. Second-hand kitchen islands might be pre-owned, but they also might be ex-display units, so there are options for those worried about the hygienic aspect, too.
And there you have it – 7 budget-friendly kitchen island ideas for your home.
