Where to Spend vs. Save in Your Kitchen Renovation

If there’s one room homeowners ask me about most when it comes to budget, it’s the kitchen. No surprise — it’s the heart of the home, the gathering spot for family and friends, and often the priciest space to design. The big question I hear all the time is: where should we invest, and where can we save without regret?

The good news: you don’t have to splurge everywhere to get a beautiful, functional kitchen. It’s all about choosing smart investments for the pieces you’ll use every single day, and saving on the details that are easier (and less expensive) to change down the road.

Where to Spend in the Kitchen

1. Kitchen Renovation Layout & Planning

Before cabinetry, counters, or appliances, the most valuable investment you can make is in the layout. A well-planned kitchen makes everyday life easier — whether it’s where the dishwasher sits in relation to the sink, or ensuring you have enough counter space next to the stove. Working with a designer or kitchen professional means your space will be tailored to how you cook, live, and entertain — and can prevent costly mistakes down the line.

2. Kitchen Cabinetry

Cabinets are the backbone of your kitchen. Quality cabinetry not only lasts longer but also makes the space more functional with smart layouts, storage, and soft-close features. While custom cabinetry can be a big-ticket item, it’s worth the investment if you plan to stay in your home for years.

3. Kitchen Countertops

Think about how many times a day you set something down on your counters — from morning coffee mugs to dinner prep. Durable, high-quality countertops (like quartz or natural stone) are absolutely worth it. They stand up to daily use, resist stains, and elevate the entire kitchen’s look.

4. Kitchen Appliances (Strategically)

Not every appliance needs to be top-of-the-line, but your main workhorses — the fridge and stove — deserve a bigger slice of your budget. These impact how you cook and live every day. Dishwashers and microwaves? You can often save a bit here without losing functionality.

5. Kitchen Lighting

A well-lit kitchen changes everything. Invest in a layered lighting plan: task lighting (like under-cabinet lights), ambient lighting (pendants or recessed), and accent lighting (to highlight features). Good lighting makes the space feel brighter, bigger, and more welcoming.

Where to Save in the Kitchen

1. Kitchen Backsplash

Backsplash tile is a design feature, not a real functional one. There are plenty of beautiful, budget-friendly tile options that create impact without overspending. And the best part? If you fall in love with a trend later, this is one of the easier elements to update.

2. Kitchen Hardware

Cabinet knobs and pulls are like jewelry for your kitchen — but unlike jewelry, you don’t need to splurge. Affordable hardware can look amazing, and it’s easy to swap out when you want a refresh.

3. Paint & Wall Colour

Never underestimate what a fresh coat of paint can do. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to completely transform the feel of your kitchen, and unlike cabinets or counters, it’s not a huge commitment.

4. Secondary Storage & Shelving

Not every cabinet needs to be custom. A combination of standard cabinetry, open shelving, and smartly placed storage pieces can save thousands while still giving you a polished look.

Designer Pro Tip: Mix High and Low

The best kitchens often strike a balance. Maybe you splurge on quartz countertops but save with a simple subway tile backsplash. Or invest in custom cabinetry, but keep hardware minimal for now. Mixing “high and low” creates a layered, intentional look while keeping your budget in check.

Your kitchen is a daily-use space, and the right investments will make it not just beautiful, but practical for years to come. Spend where it counts — layout, cabinetry, counters, appliances, and lighting — and save on the details that are easier to change.

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in Toronto, Etobicoke, or the GTA, I’d love to help you make the smartest choices for your home. Together we can create a kitchen that feels timeless, functions beautifully, and fits your lifestyle.

This blog is the first in a Spend vs.Save series, so stay tuned — I’ll be sharing how to make smart budget choices in bathrooms, living rooms, and beyond.

Thanks for reading!

Lenore 🤍