What would you do if your kitchen reno budget doubled overnight?

Life-changing for awkward corners. - Splurge on a statement backsplash.

Open shelving is a love-it-or-hate-it thing, but I’m with you—it can really let those old walls breathe. I did it in a 1920s flip and the brick behind the shelves became the star. Deep drawers are killer for pots and pans, but don’t sleep on a custom pantry pull-out for spices. Makes cooking way less of a scavenger hunt.

If my reno budget doubled, I'd go for function first, looks second. Here’s what’s worked for me:

- Deep drawers for pots/pans are a must, but I’d add heavy-duty slides—cheaper ones sag after a few years.
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“custom pantry pull-out for spices”

—totally agree. I did a full-height pull-out in a duplex and it’s the most-used storage in the house.
- Open shelving is cool for showing off brick or tile, but if you’re renting or flipping, I’ve noticed tenants often want closed cabinets to hide clutter. Maybe mix both?
- Statement backsplash: I’m on the fence. It looks great in photos, but if you’re thinking resale, keep it neutral or easy to swap out. Learned that the hard way with a busy mosaic tile—buyers loved the kitchen except for that.
- If there’s budget left, under-cabinet lighting is underrated. Makes a bigger difference than people expect.

Corners and awkward spots? Pull-out trays or lazy Susans. Not glamorous, but man, they make life easier.