Since kitchen cabinets are probably the largest single expense as you plan your new kitchen, now is the time to visit the dealer showroom and ask some significant questions of your designer.

1. Can you reduce the number of cabinets in your plan by using one where you now have two?

2. Consider deleting or reducing the number of modifications or construction options first. The imaginative designer may be able to suggest other ways of achieving a similar result without changing the depth of a cabinet. Can you save by ordering plywood sides only for those cabinets which will have one or both sides exposed?

3. Can you reduce the number of decorative options, such as molding inserts, you have selected? How about making another decorative hardware selection? Must you have the wine rack or could you purchase another type less expensively than a cabinet?

4. You may want to re-consider another style, wood or finish. However, if the "look" is your primary concern, try not to compromise on this issue!

5. Re-evaluate the functional features you have included. Now may not be the time to give up the wonderful pantry cabinet, but perhaps you could install roll-out shelves for the base cabinets later. The same may be true of other features. Are they available as kits you could purchase and install later?

Counter tops also represent a sizeable part of your budget. Take a second look at when trying to reduce costs of your kitchen plan.

1. The easiest way to cut down the expense of the counter top is to select a less expensive material. Be careful not to expect the same performance from some of the less costly products. The counters must bear some of the most intense wear of all kitchen products. While the more expensive man-made solid surfaces cost more, they are also easier to repair and could actually save a considerable expense if major damage is incurred.

2. Is there a difference in material costs between colors and patterns?

3. Is there a different edge profile that would be less expensive?