Over the last few years, I can’t help but feel that homeowners have been charged premium prices—both in new construction homes and resale homes—for what is ultimately cheap kitchen and bath design. That’s why I’ve compiled the following list of cheap kitchen and bath design elements to avoid if you’re looking to buy a home or upgrade if you want to remodel your current home.
Avoid—Builder-Grade Cabinetry
If I could choose just one cheap kitchen and bath design element to avoid, it would probably be builder-grade cabinetry. Also known as stock cabinetry, it is literally the cheapest option for cabinets. As you might expect, that means the cabinet construction and material leave a lot to be desired. But it also significantly impacts the look and layout of the space.
First, stock cabinets are available in a severely limited color scheme—usually just plain white or dolphin gray. Second, their available configurations are also limited. This means that your layout isn’t based on functionality, but what combination of stock cabinet widths “kind of” fits. I’ve often seen the use of stock cabinets result in odd gaps and, even more egregious, appliances being shoved in weird locations that make them inconvenient to use.
Upgrade—Custom Cabinetry
Instead, I highly recommend custom cabinetry. The cabinet construction methods and materials are of a much higher standard, ensuring their beauty will last for years to come. They’re also available in an almost endless array of finishes, making each design feel unique and bespoke. Even in white kitchen designs, the difference between stock white and a custom off-white speaks volumes. And finally, custom cabinetry is designed and built to specifically fit your home. Trust me, you definitely notice when cabinets fit the space and not the other way around.
Avoid—Acrylic Tub Surrounds
Now if we’re singling out bathrooms, acrylic tub surrounds are the worst cheap bath design element to avoid. Acrylic tub surrounds look like a low-cost option the day they’re installed, and it only gets worse from there. Over time, they’re prone to scratching, warping, and discoloration, especially in high-traffic bathrooms. Acrylic tub surrounds often end up looking dirty and dingy as they wear, and the only way to fix it is by replacing the whole unit.
Upgrade—Tile Tub Surrounds
Instead, I would argue that tile tub surrounds are well worth the extra investment. They are the “Wow!” factor that you notice as soon as you step into the room. The size, shape, and color variations are virtually limitless, creating a truly custom and personalized space. Plus, tile is much more durable and easier to clean than an acrylic surround. In my opinion, a tile tub surround is the one design element you should not skimp on in any bathroom.
Avoid—Hollow Core Molded Doors
My final cheap kitchen and bath design element to avoid is something that isn’t often considered—interior doors. However, they have a larger impact than most people realize. Many houses come standard with hollow core molded doors which, you guessed it, are the cheapest option to install since there’s basically nothing to them. This lack of substance makes them easy to damage or even break, but the biggest problem is that they offer virtually zero sound insulation. This means your family will be subjected to each other’s music, phone calls, conversations, etc., even behind closed doors. Not a great choice, especially if you value privacy.
Upgrade—Solid Core Doors
Instead, upgrade to solid core doors. As the name suggests, these doors have a solid core instead of a hollow one. This superior construction alleviates all of the problems mentioned above, and comes with an added perk of its own. Thanks to them carrying a bit more weight, they feel noticeably more substantial when you open and close them. As someone who pays attention to the details, this subtle difference adds a sense of luxury and refinement to your space.
How to Avoid Cheap Kitchen and Bath Design
These cheap kitchen and bath design elements are my top three to avoid, but this list is far from comprehensive. If you have questions about other features, don’t hesitate to ask! Contact us today for help navigating through cheap kitchen and bath design elements to avoid.
