We don’t all have huge budgets to change our kitchens with, but there are things we can do to improve on what we’ve already got. All it takes is a little work.
Update The Paint
A different colour on the walls can make a huge difference to how a kitchen looks. Even the reflection of the paint on the units, if they’re still in great condition, can make them look as if you’ve had a complete refresh, without emptying your bank account. You can even paint the kitchen doors these days, with a little thought, preparation and planning.
Refresh Doors and Worktops
If your unit carcasses are still in good condition and don’t need replacing, it’s a good idea to change your worktop and possibly the unit doors, for a completely new look. Many suppliers will provide doors for standard sized units, so it’s a real option to refresh your kitchen for a reasonable price.
There are so many different worktops to choose from these days, that it’s impossible to settle on any one kind as a favourite. Laminate worktops tend to be cheaper options, although wood and granite continue to be popular options for those who have the budget. Instead of buying a ready made breakfast bar, use a regular length of worktop for a slightly narrower version, and have your joiner tailor it to your needs.
Lighting
The world is your oyster when it comes to lighting these days. As well as plinth and cornice lights, there are also options for coloured rotating disco balls, smart lighting that you can control via an app on your phone, and different effects to suit everyone. Even just simple spotlights under the cupboards that shine onto the worktop can look amazing on dark nights, but you will need an electrician if any new wiring or sockets are needed.
Floor Rejuvenation
How about some new laminate flooring, linoleum, marmoleum, tiles, slates, or whatever your local supplier has on sale. A replaced floor can transform a room. If you have the budget, put some underfloor heating below tiles, for a perfectly divine barefoot experience. Vinyl flooring is certainly the cheapest option, unless a DIY store has a great sale on.
When choosing sale options, allow for possible breakages, as there may not be the ability to go back and get replacements. Check batch numbers for colour matching, and bring a sample of your kitchen with you to check shading, as some shops won’t take back sale stock unless it is faulty.