Budget Makeover: What You Get for $15,000

By Erinn Bucklan

Often the biggest expense in a kitchen, new cabinets will probably be out of reach at this price point. If you have an older kitchen, it may be wiser to repaint or refinish the existing cabinets, which are likely wood. It will cost half as much as the price of new wood cabinets — and smarter than downgrading to particleboard to fit the budget, Janice Anne points out. Or consider tearing out cabinets completely and going for a trendier open-shelving design, like this look from Pottery Barn. While this is an inexpensive option, it's important to keep shelves clutter-free to maintain the stylish, airy look.