Simple, Savvy and Sensible Home Improvement

MOORESVILLE, N.C., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Don't allow a slim wallet to get in the way of your home improvement goals. By making simple and cost- effective changes to your kitchen and bath, you will have the satisfaction of adding some pizzazz and value to your home, while creating a renewed and refreshed environment.

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"Prioritize items of importance when making your home improvement purchases," said John Kasberger, senior vice president of merchandising for kitchen and bath at Lowe's. "Keep in mind that small changes can make a big impact on your home."

    Charming Kitchen Upgrades
     - Changing the knobs on your kitchen cabinets provides a refreshing boost
       to the room's overall look. Try the Belwith/Hickory Hardware 1-1/4"
       Leaf Knob (Item #15236, $4.97) in Antique Blonde for a soft yet
       polished upgrade that is easy to install in an afternoon.
     - While you are focusing upon your kitchen, don't forget the faucet. This
       easy refresh will give your sink a new feel. Try an antique copper
       finish like the Price Pfister Single Handle Marielle Antique Copper
       Kitchen Faucet (Item #108294, $224.82) for a country kitchen look.
     - Updated appliances not only make a statement but by choosing ENERGY
       STAR(R) qualified items like the Whirlpool 25 Cu. Ft. Side by Side
       Refrigerator (Item #285042, $1,198) or Whirlpool 24-Inch Built-In
       Dishwasher (Item #273163, $598), you are saving energy and money
       simultaneously.
     - Indulge your senses with the Espressione Cafe Chic Red Cappuccino
       Machine (Item #269922, $399.99); the bright color acts as a fantastic
       ornament for your countertop and the coffee will provide a great pick-
       me-up on Monday morning.
     - Complement your new appliances with an easy-to-install tile backsplash
       like the Ply-Gem 2x2x12 Multi Color Tumble Stone (Item #72126, $9.98).
     - To give your entire kitchen a new appearance pre-pasted wallpaper like
       the Graham & Brown Faux Finish Texture (Item #146912, $15.96) is both
       user-friendly and low-maintenance, requiring only warm water and a
       sponge to remove stains.


    Bold Bathroom Renovations
     - Nothing screams "Fun!" like the Wall Pops Go Metro-Pink Dot (Item
       #244261, $9.96), which is simple to use and brightens up any space,
       small or large.
     - Install a modern light fixture to make your bathroom even brighter with
       the Portfolio 4-Light Retro Brushed Nickel Fixture (Item #197835, $99).
     - Clear out clutter with the Estate by RSI 13" White Mission Storage
       Tower (Item #141744, $88) which can easily hold bath towels, personal
       products and decorative items.
     - Bring the spa to your home with the Moen 9" Inspire Rainshower (Item
       #42800, $68) showerhead.
     - Replace a tired, old toilet with a pristine American Standard Cadet
       Elongated Chair-Height Toilet (Item #238389, $187) for a renewed look.
       This high-performance toilet has the latest technology to help you save
       water and in turn save money.
     - To protect your bathroom from unwanted moisture, steam and stains try
       the Valspar Kitchen & Bath Enamel Paint (Item #130873, $25.98).

"Remember you don't have to tackle a significant makeover to change the appearance of your home," says Kasberger. "Choosing even one room to update can make you eager to come home to a fresh and new environment."

For more tips on budget-friendly kitchen and bath upgrades, visit Lowes.com.

About Lowe's

With fiscal year 2006 sales of $46.9 billion, Lowe's Companies, Inc. is a FORTUNE(R) 50 company that serves approximately 13 million customers a week at more than 1,525 home improvement stores in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1946 and based in Mooresville, N.C., Lowe's is the second-largest home improvement retailer in the world. For more information, visit Lowes.com.

SOURCE Lowe's Companies, Inc.