The average lifespan of a kitchen can be as long as 25 years; it’s a project that most of us will only embark on a couple of times during our lifetime. More common though are smaller yet highly effective updates to the kitchen that as well as giving your existing space a refresh, can help ensure it continues to meet the demands of your way of life. Even on a relatively small budget, these small changes can make a big difference to this heart of our homes.

Here are just a few ideas for updating your kitchen on a budget.

• Concentrate on the most visible areas first. Any aspects of the kitchen that are always on show are also more likely to be subjected to lots of wear and tear. Changing them up will be hugely noticeable. Worktops, for example, are simple enough to upgrade without too much upheaval. Surfaces such as marble effect CRL Quartz also offer a great opportunity to add a trend-setting look to a kitchen that may otherwise appear slightly dated – perfect for an instant refresh.

CRL Quartz Calacatta
CRL Quartz Colorado

• Add more storage. Keeping the kitchen orderly and uncluttered can be a challenge, particularly when this is often a space used by all the family and for a whole range of activities, not just cooking and laundry. Adding some shelves taps into the trend for open storage while providing somewhere to store jars and recipe books to free up cupboard space and hanging racks will liberate your worktops. If you’ve lived with your existing kitchen for a while now, you may be surprised at just how many things you’ve accumulated over time – put aside a weekend for a clear out of your kitchen cupboards and revolutionise the space without spending a penny!

CRL Quartz River White

• Change colours. If your kitchen furniture is painted, then opting for a different shade can have a dramatic effect on the overall appearance of the room. Changing cabinet doors is an alternative solution that can work just as well. Even investing in some tile paint and changing up the splashback will make a big difference and is a simple project that can be completed in a weekend.

• Upgrade the kitchen floor. If the flooring has seen better days, then this is a very good place to start. Again, there is no need for ripping the whole kitchen out to make the change; the new flooring can be run underneath the plinths rather than wall-to-wall to keep costs down.

• Create a feature wall. Pick a bold colour scheme to brighten up an existing setting or wallpaper with an eye-catching pattern to add extra vibrancy. Just make sure the paint or paper you choose is suitable for use in the kitchen, so it can withstand the humidity and is easy to wipe down if needed.

CRL Quartz White Water
CRL Quartz Verona, white worktop with subtle grey veins
CRL Quartz Verona

• Add lighting. Adding spotlights over key areas such as worktops will ensure the kitchen is well-lit for tasks like food preparation. A more ambient light added to the dining area will take your kitchen from day to night in style.

Looking for more kitchen design inspiration? Why not follow us on Pinterest for more ideas.

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