The Kitchen Reveal: reno on a budget

One thing I hope to never do again: install kitchen countertops.

After many hours, copious amounts of sawdust and support joints, extensive use of our levels (good thing Mr. FC has 4 of them) some bruises/cuts, and discovering we needed to modify our waterline hookups in order to install the faucet, we are done with the countertop installation. A big hug to Mr. FC for he did most of the work.........I hovered, helpfully handing him tools and giggling uncontrollably when he asked me to hand him the "galvanized nuts".

To refresh our memories, the BEFORE:

The AFTER:

(click photos for larger view)

Those lemons aren't just for show--I really am making lemon bars for a friend's bridal shower, I swear. And yes, my countertops are always this bare--every little inch of space is precious!

Told you, it's tiiiiiiiiiiiiiiny.

With our new faucet, the Hubs and I practically fight over who gets to fill up big pots or the Brita pitcher full of water.

But of course, we're not completely done with this space yet. We still need to change out the door hinges and knock out part of a wall and install a backsplash. Sweat, patience, and frugal decisions went into this extreme budget makeover:

* Whirlpool stainless steel appliances = $2,100

* paint (SW Sensible Hue on walls & Behr Ultra White on cabinets) = ~$100

* tiles (ceramic tiles, supplies, tile saw) = ~$300

* laminate countertops = ~$300

* Kohler Staccato brushed stainless steel sink = $150

* Kohler Simplice faucet = $250

* cabinet hardware/lighting= ~$100

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Approx. total: $3,300

The backsplash and wall patching will probably tack on another $300-$500 if we're lucky. It's still a miniscule kitchen but it works for us for now! At least now I can cook a meal without gagging on the ugliness.

I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Any kitchen renovation stories of your own, you'd care to share?
(Please tell me you've seen smaller kitchens than this = o)