Or SAVE SPLURGE

Balancing your wish list and your budget line can be a challenge. Designer and

builder Richard Ryder offers his advice on where to make your money count.

• SAVE ON CABINETRY. While custom cabinets can add a personal and unique feel to your space, Richard recommends going with a prefabricated line and mixing in custom pieces. “I’m a big fan of custom cabinets, but most times cabinets are solid wood,” he says. Instead, go custom on your island or nook for that touch of personalized flair. “It is a great place to save money and the quality is there,” he says. “At the end of the day, you won’t know the difference between half-inch plywood and quarter-inch plywood.”

• SPLURGE ON LIGHTING & HARDWARE. Details play a major role in the overall functionality and look of your space. Richard suggests investing in solid hardware that will give your kitchen a finished look while also enduring the wear and tear of everyday use. “Consider the actual weight of the piece, because that tells the quality,” he says. “You can order a piece of hardware and it will feel like it will fly away, or you could order a quality piece and you can feel how substantial it is.” This also extends to plumbing and lighting. Ensure the quality is there through investing in better materials. “You’ll be happy long term,” he says.