Kitchen remodeling on a budget: A downsized space that is high on style

Adrian Forman's last kitchen had professional appliances, a marble floor, and a tile backsplash. But when the recently divorced mother of two moved to a smaller home in Hastings-on-Hudson, N.Y., her idea of a dream kitchen started over, too. "I left that behind," says the Texas native, a writer. "My goal was to create a functional, comfortable kitchen. I want people to spend time here."

Forman's original budget was $25,000 (though she spent a bit more than that before she was done), which is about the national average for a kitchen remodel. Here's how she made her dream a reality.

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A neutral palette

"White appliances would have been too much white. Black is too heavy. Stainless was the perfect midpoint, and the tin backsplash helps tie it all together. The cabinets and counters are like the wrapping paper, and the appliances and backsplash are the bow on top."

Maximizing space

"The refrigerator is on your right as soon as you enter the kitchen, so I wanted cabinet-depth even though it meant spending a bit extra. I also had to have French doors as opposed to a fridge with one big door that swings open, cutting off the flow of the kitchen."

Double-duty

"Two ovens, one space—it's such a smart design. I entertain constantly, and I like cooking big meals. I'll put a standing rib roast in the lower oven and a kale-sweet potato casserole in the upper, while my homemade rolls bake in the toaster oven."

Natural fit

"Granite is durable and easy to take care of. I got a very high-end piece for an exceptional price because I paid cash and was willing to accept a few imperfections. Bonus: The supplier threw in the sink for free because I paid cash."

A cozy corner

"I wanted an eat-in kitchen for the boys and me, and this sitting area creates a nice connection to the outdoors. When friends come over and I'm cooking, it's a comfortable place for them to hang out and keep me company. The banquette's built-in storage holds all my tablecloths and napkins."

The right light

"Putting in LED undercabinet task lighting was one of my best decisions. I can see! There are no weird shadows, and I can use the whole counter when doing prep work. The two glass ceiling fixtures have specialty incandescent bulbs that look great, but they don't give off a lot of light."

Under foot

"I've had stone floors in the past, but I find them uncomfortable because I spend so much time on my feet. Wood is comfortable, plus I wanted continuity throughout the house. The wood floors on the first floor are all stained the same English walnut finish."

Adrian Forman went over budget, in part because she needed to replace her range and refrigerator. Experts suggest leaving at least a 10 to15 percent cushion when planning.

*Labor costs usually run higher in the Northeast.