I want to share my biggest DIY feat to date.
Info: My kitchen was in bad need of updating, I had tenants moving out of this flat, and I just moved back in (gf moving in with me in a few months). I'll be airbnb-ing it from time to time before she moves in.
I had estimated that it would realistically cost about 5k, but hoped I could stick to my budget of 4k. But with the plumber's bill coming up to 1500, and I decided to go with a little higher end Ikea cabinet finish, I came right in around 5k.
Interesting mustachian things to add: I did this reno without a car!; I joined a tool library to get access to all of the tools I needed for the reno ($60 for the whole year); I carried tools on my bike about 7kms each way 3x a week. Rented a Uhaul to buy all the heavy stuff (drywall, insulation, framing wood, dishwasher) etc. And had Ikea deliver my cabinets, sink, and counter top.
The design: Inspired by every hipster coffee shop I've ever consumed an Americano in. And apartment therapy. I guess you could call it a rustic farmhouse style with some nods to modern and industrial decor.
The project:
-I did new insulation and a vapor barrier (no insulation previously).
-New plumbing (hired a registered plumber), and added a dishwasher line and laundry hook up for the adjacent closet. I installed the dishwasher myself, though.
-Pulled up 4 layers of vinyl flooring (the last 2 I could not get up). I laid white washed plywood plank flooring and finished it myself.
-Ikea cabinets, big white porceline sink, walnut/particle board counter top, and open shelving.
-I did a very simple new window frame out of framing wood. It looked cool when it was just raw wood and I am regretful I painted over it!
-Subway tile: horizontal running board behind the stove, and vertical running board on the other walls.
-I had help from my girlfriend for a few full days; and my mother for a few full days; and my friend for a couple of days.... Beyond that it was just me, my tools, and my obsessive/over-confident character trait that got me through the 4ish week reno.
I cried 2 times.
Before (2014 -when I purchased):
