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Top Things You Can Do To Your Kitchen to Make a Big Difference
When we think “kitchen renovation” the first thing that pops into the
head is probably dollar signs. Most people think that renovating a
kitchen is an expensive, time consuming and messy prospect. However,
that is not always the case.
There are a number of things that every homeowner can do that will make
a big difference in the appearance and function level of your kitchen.
The first thing that every project needs is a plan. Figure out what it
is that you want your kitchen to look like when you are finished. First,
put together your “dream kitchen” checklist. Then determine what your
potential budget is and how long you think each project is going to
take.
Simple fixes that will make a big difference includes things like
repainting or refinishing the cabinet doors and drawer faces. If you
have cabinet inserts that are cracked, broken or just plain ugly –
replace them with fabric, decorated Plexiglas, or even with tin panels.
After you put those doors and drawer faces back on your cabinets, make
sure you dress them up with all new hardware. Updated hardware is an
inexpensive fix that will make an enormous difference in the appearance
of your kitchen.
If your benchtops have seen better days, but you cannot afford to
install top of the line, granite or marble style slabs, try tiling them
instead. Granite and marble tiles come in a variety of sizes and colours.
Using a coordinating grout colour will make the benchtops appear
seamless. Another possibility if you simply cannot afford to replace the
old benchtops is to make it appear as if you have.
Make a cutout of the benchtop in the exact dimensions as the one you
currently have. You can use formaldehyde free MDF or particleboard,
frame it out to sit perfectly over the existing benchtops and give it a
new finish. There are multiple laminates and other coverings that can
top the boards to give your benchtops the appearance of being brand new.
A new sink is always a good way to spruce up your kitchen, and may be
necessary if you choose to use the “cover the old one” method described
above. However, if you do not put a new sink in, at least replace the
faucets. Matching the finish to that of your new cabinet hardware is an
inexpensive way to drastically improve the appearance of your kitchen.
Additional improvements are as easy as a fresh coat of paint, choosing a
wonderful splashback that pulls all the colours of the paint, cabinets,
benchtops and floors together and new window treatments.
Of course, we would all like to have the newest, fancy appliances that
are on the market. But when that is simply not in the budget, the steps
outlined above, will breathe new life into your old, tired kitchen. Have
fun. |
