We just bought a house and need to update the kitchen. We do not have $50,000 to do this - more like $25,000. We'd need new floors, cabinets, appliances, and countertops. the layout is fine. Can we do this for $25k? Where do we even start?

Seek out the services of a Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) in your local area.

They will give you impartial advice and they can design a kitchen to suit your needs and your budget.

"Kitchen designer" is right on. I recently tore out a 3 month old kitchen and put in a new one. I bought a house in CO and the builder said I could put in my own cabinetry, but then wouldn't let me when it came down to doing so. Hence, I tore out the kitchen that came w/the house and worked with a kitchen designer to put in a high end cabinet (Brookhaven), vs. that of the builder's line. Even though I basically used the same footprint, the difference is AMAZING! The designer really made the kitchen flow and his pointers and tips make the kitchen SO much more user friendly. Using the professional made all the difference in the world.

My suggestion---A Tuscany landscape transferred onto marble tiles as a backsplash and then coordinate a rope tile frame with diagonal marble field tiles. What a dramatic focal point and then build the rest of the kitchen around that

http://www.AliciaTappDesigns.com

I use JP kitchen Designs in Pembroke Pines (Fort Lauderdale) to remodel my kitchen and I was very please with their service. Their web site is www.jpkitchendesign.com .

The kitchen is the hub of the home, and the island is a versatile element that can give your space added style and functionality. Check out the gallery here:

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/kitchen/gallery/0,25895,1581515,00.html