If the festive season has seen you spending more time at home than usual, and so has highlighted the fact that you could do with a new kitchen, you’re not alone. But fitting a whole room isn’t a cheap business. Equally, if you’re happy with your current layout, there may seem little point in changing it.
Instead, you could give the heart of your home a refresh without breaking the bank. Here are some ideas:
Paint your kitchen cabinets
A fresh coat of paint on tired-looking kitchen cabinets is one way of refreshing this space while adding a dash of fresh colour. Be ready to apply several coats, and prepare the surfaces well in advance, by sanding, washing and using a primer or undercoat. (Also, be sure that the paint is OK to use on cabinets, and is the right type for the material in question.)
Replace cabinet doors
This is another quick fix and easy upgrade. Again, you’ll enjoy a new look without the hassle (not to mention expense) of a full refit. And because kitchen units come in standard sizes, that makes the job even simpler.
Change the cabinet handles
This may not be something you’d previously thought about a great deal, but a different set of hardware is another cost-effective way of updating your kitchen. If you want a more modern look, opt for flat or T-bar handles. It’s also worth looking for handles in car boot sales and online marketplaces.
Go for open shelving
Open shelving boosts storage space affordably and creatively, and frees up space on your countertops. And it works especially well in smaller spaces. With a combination of functional and decorative items, you can create a display that looks fantastic. However, you’ll need to keep on top of grime with regular dusting and cleaning.
Put in a splashback
You could have a splashback in places where your kitchen walls are most liable to stains, splashing and liquids, for example around your sink or hob. These features are functional, while also adding some smart design – done well, they can even become the focal point of the room.
A bright idea – consider new lighting
The right lighting can transform both the way your kitchen functions and the room’s look and feel. Hanging lights over the kitchen island or table add warmth and depth. Meanwhile, energy-efficient LED bulbs or strip lighting under the cabinets will make the place feel lighter, and it will be easier to see things as you cook. A warm-coloured bulb creates an inviting glow.
Indeed, you may be surprised at just how much difference the right illuminations can make.
Consider a new floor
Changing the flooring in your kitchen may be less expensive than you feared, plus there are many designs and materials from which to take your pick. And if you go for a natural stone such as marble or granite, you can look forward to many benefits, including ease of cleaning, durability, sustainability, temperature control and uniqueness. What’s more, a natural stone floor potentially adds serious value to your property.
Fit some new worktops
This can give an older room a fresh lease of life, while dressing up otherwise bog-standard kitchen units. Again, you have the option to order these in elegant-looking natural stone. And you can enjoy many of the same benefits listed above as you create a timeless, luxurious look.
Talk to us
At London-based Royal Stone Care, we’re here to help with marble, granite, limestone or other natural stone. Talk to us about expert marble cleaning, granite repair, limestone restoration in London. We work with businesses and private residences.
