{
  "id": 1746040,
  "title": "We remodeled our dated kitchen for $10,000. The results look incredible, but we've got several regrets.",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/we-remodeled-our-dated-kitchen-for-10-000-the-results-look-incredible",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-18T16:24:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Insider",
    "slug": "business-insider",
    "url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/renovated-old-kitchen-cheap-mistakes-ikea-cabinets-advice-photos-2026-8"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Our outdated kitchen underwent a $10,000 transformation in just two months. Lexi Marshall, the homeowner, opted for IKEA and DIY labor, resulting in a modern and functional space. However, they have a few regrets about the renovation process.\n\nThe original oak cabinetry, honey-toned tile countertops, backsplash, and striped wallpaper made the kitchen appear outdated. The short upper cabinets also made the room feel smaller. To create a more modern and functional kitchen, they chose warm wood-toned IKEA cabinets, off-white glass-composite countertops, a deep farmhouse-style sink, and brass hardware. They also added a green scalloped backsplash and beige hexagon floor tile to add visual interest.\n\nTaking on most of the labor themselves helped them save thousands of dollars. However, they wish they had paid for IKEA's professional measuring service, as their own measurements weren't accurate and caused delays and frustration. They also wish they had started prep work earlier, as the demolition, wall repairs, patching, painting, and installation took longer than expected. Additionally, they wish they had created a temporary kitchen area during the renovation, as it was more disruptive than anticipated without one. They also recommend testing grout before committing to it, as the backsplash and flooring were not from IKEA.",
  "summary": "We went through IKEA to renovate our dated '90s kitchen on a tight budget. We made mistakes and have regrets, but we love the before-and-after.",
  "key_points": [
    "$10,000 kitchen remodel completed in two months",
    "IKEA cabinets, glass-composite countertops, farmhouse sink chosen",
    "Regrets include inaccurate DIY measurements, delayed prep work"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}