Little Ways to Save Big on a Remodel

Be Open To Open Shelves And Doors

Chris's old kitchen had a small, doorless room that held the fridge; Tom turned the space into a food pantry, lining it with open shelving and forgoing the lower cabinets often found in pantries (saving $1,000). He also left off the pantry's entry door (a $350 item). To make the highly visible alcove blend with the rest of the kitchen, he lined the walls with beadboard.

What They Saved: $1,350

• 
• 
• Gallery: The Austin Project: Before
• 
• Sign Up for Our Free Newsletters