What to Splurge vs. Save On in Your Kitchen Remodel
Every kitchen remodel starts with one big question: where should we spend and where can we save?
If you’ve ever priced out a single slab of marble, you already know that choices add up fast.
But the secret to a kitchen that feels both elevated and practical isn’t about spending wildly — it’s about knowing which details truly make the difference.
Below, our team at Lark Interiors breaks down where to invest and where to scale back during your next Kitchen Remodel Dallas TX project.
Think of this as your designer-approved roadmap to creating a kitchen that feels luxurious, works beautifully, and stands the test of time.
Splurge: Cabinets that Last
Cabinetry is the foundation of any kitchen — visually and functionally. If you’re going to invest anywhere, start here.
Why splurge: Quality cabinets don’t just look better; they hold up to daily life. Solid wood boxes, durable hinges, and soft-close drawers will outlast stock options by decades.
What we recommend: Custom or semi-custom cabinetry that allows you to maximize every inch — with features like hidden outlets, integrated trash pullouts, and tray dividers.
Where you can save: The interiors. Stick with melamine or painted interiors instead of upgrading every finish inside the boxes.
Save: Trendy Backsplash Tile
A backsplash is one of the easiest surfaces to update down the road — and one of the easiest places to overspend now.
Why save: Tiles come and go (remember glass mosaics?).
What we recommend: Keep it classic — white zellige, subway, or natural stone. Install a clean layout, then use accessories or lighting to inject personality.
Splurge: Countertops You’ll Love for Years
Countertops are where quality and beauty meet every single day.
Why splurge: They take the most wear. Cheap materials chip, scratch, or stain easily, and replacing them later costs even more.
What we recommend: Natural stone (like quartzite or marble) or a high-quality quartz with subtle veining.
Where you can save: Edge profiles — a simple eased edge is timeless and less expensive than intricate shapes.
Save: Basic Appliances (for Now)
Unless you’re an avid chef, you can skip the pro-level range.
Why save: Many mid-range appliances perform beautifully and look sleek when panel-ready or stainless.
What we recommend: Focus on reliability, energy efficiency, and quiet operation.
Where to splurge later: When the layout is perfect and you’re ready for long-term investment pieces (like a 48” range or built-in fridge).
Splurge: Lighting That Sets the Mood
Lighting is the difference between “nice kitchen” and “wow.”
Why splurge: Layered lighting creates both function and atmosphere. Statement pendants, under-cabinet LEDs, and toe-kick lighting elevate everything else.
What we recommend: Beautiful fixtures in materials like brass or matte black that feel intentional, not just practical.
Save: Paint and Wall Treatments
You can always repaint.
Why save: Paint colors can be refreshed as your style evolves.
What we recommend: Use a high-quality, wipeable finish (like satin or eggshell) on walls and a durable cabinet lacquer.
Splurge-worthy moment: If your space lacks architectural character, consider adding millwork or paneling — it gives a luxury feel that paint alone can’t.
Splurge: Hardware and Plumbing Fixtures
These are your jewelry pieces — you touch them every day.
Why splurge: Solid brass or stainless fixtures last longer and age gracefully.
What we recommend: Choose cohesive finishes throughout the kitchen for a tailored, intentional look.
Where you can save: Avoid ultra-trendy shapes or finishes that might feel dated soon.
Save: Decor and Styling (for Now)
Once the big pieces are in place, live with your kitchen before over-decorating.
Why save: You’ll learn where you naturally gather, cook, and drop things.
What we recommend: Invest later in art, ceramics, and styling pieces that reflect your personality — not filler decor.
Bonus: The Smart Splurge You Won’t Regret
One of our favorite “quiet luxuries” is custom organization. Drawer inserts, built-in spice pullouts, and charging drawers aren’t flashy, but they change how your kitchen works every day. These touches make daily life smoother — and buyers notice.
Real-Life Inspiration
In our Home Renovation projects, we’ve seen homeowners surprised by how much joy comes from the little things: a hidden appliance garage, the right lighting color temperature, a kitchen island that doubles as homework space.
As we like to say: luxury isn’t about having more — it’s about having better.
FAQs: Splurge vs. Save in a Kitchen Remodel
-
Cabinetry. It sets the tone and endures constant use. High-quality cabinets ensure every other design choice looks intentional and balanced.
-
Backsplash tile, paint, and trendy fixtures. Choose timeless shapes and update accessories later.
-
Yes. Lark Interiors manages full design and selection — from cabinet layout to countertop stone — as part of our Kitchen Remodel services.
-
Budgets vary, but at Lark Interiors, all projects start at $150,000. This ensures the level of detail and quality that makes a space feel truly custom.
Ready to Design Your Dream Kitchen?
Your kitchen is the heart of your home — it deserves thoughtful design and investment in the right places. Our Dallas-based team can help you balance beauty, function, and budget for results that feel effortless.
Start here: Kitchen Remodel Dallas TX
Projects with Lark Interiors begin at $150,000, ensuring the quality, materials, and craftsmanship you’ll love for years.
LARK INTERIORS
An interior design based in Dallas, Texas and focused on liveable luxury. We believe in comfy sofas, performance fabrics, and coffee tables you can put your feet on.