Transforming Spaces on a Shoestring Budget
Meet Julian Thomas, a Brooklynite with a passion for DIY projects and a knack for turning his apartment into a stunning oasis. As a self-proclaimed “Bonafide Brooklyn Bachelor,” Julian has been documenting his budget-friendly upgrades on his YouTube channel, Told By Thomas. We caught up with him to learn more about his latest kitchen makeover.
From Zero to Hero: Julian’s Kitchen Revamp
Julian’s kitchen was in dire need of a revamp. With zero countertop space, he knew he had to take action. After putting it off for two years, he finally tackled the project, breaking it down into manageable sections to stay on budget and schedule.
The Budget Breakdown
So, how much did this kitchen transformation cost? A whopping $500! The open pantry and subway tile backsplash, two of the biggest DIY projects, came in at under $250 combined. Julian’s secret to staying on budget? A trusty spreadsheet to track expenses and plan his project.
Lessons Learned
The most challenging part of the project? The subway tile backsplash. Julian advises taking the time to lay each tile individually to ensure perfection. On the other hand, cleaning and organizing were his favorite parts – he finds it therapeutic!
Favorite Pieces
Julian invested in quality food storage tools, which have become his favorite pieces. He’s passionate about reducing single-use plastic and loves using products like Zip Top bags, Bee’s Wrap, and Dropps to help him achieve his goal.
DIY Wisdom
Julian’s top tip for tackling a budget DIY home makeover? Plan, plan, plan! Use spreadsheets to track expenses, manage your project, and shop around for the best prices. Take your time, and you’ll be proud of the results.
Share Your Own Budget Makeover
Have a budget-friendly upgrade to share? Send us your before and after photos, along with a brief description, to [email protected] with the subject “Budget Before & After.” We’d love to feature your story!
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