Renovating a tired and dated kitchen is a fantastic way to give your home a fresh and modern look. Unfortunately, kitchen renovations are generally one of the most expensive renovation projects that you can undertake, and you may not think your budget will stretch to provide you with the kitchen of your dreams.

However, with some careful planning and clever tactics, you can create a stunning and contemporary new kitchen without spending a fortune. Here are three ways that you can keep your costs low without compromising on style.

1. Buy wholesale

Whenever you purchase any materials or items for a kitchen renovation project from a retail outlet or supplier, you're paying more than you need to. As well as the cost of the item, you're also paying a markup that represents the seller's profit margin. You can save a significant amount if you purchase the same items from a kitchen wholesale outlet.

Items such as kitchen benchtops, tiles, tapware and basins are all excellent items to buy wholesale. Often, the items available at wholesale prices are last season's styles or items that have been discontinued. This allows you to buy new and contemporary items without paying a premium.

2. Recycle where possible

Another excellent way to save a bundle of cash on your kitchen renovation is to recycle as much of the existing kitchen as possible. Doing this also helps to make your new kitchen a more eco-friendly and sustainable project.

One of the best kitchen features to recycle are the cabinets. As long as they're structurally sound, they can be updated by simply replacing the doors and the door handles for a whole new look. You save even more by keeping your existing doors and giving them a new look with paint that's made for use in the kitchen.

3. Maintain the layout

In many renovation projects, one of the biggest expenses arises when the layout is altered. This is particularly true in the kitchen because changing the layout will require work from professional plumbers and electricians. Moving electrical sockets, pipes and gas lines will add a serious amount to your budget.

If possible, stick to the layout that you currently have. If the layout is really ineffective, try to compromise by adapting bench space and storage space rather than attempting to relocate electrical appliances or the sink. You'll be surprised at what a difference you can make to the layout with a few simple tweaks.