Cooking up a storm: six ways to update your kitchen on a budget

A kitchen can be one of the most expensive rooms to completely renovate, but these shortcuts can help you refresh your kitchen on a budget.

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Sophie Warner6 March 2019

It's one of the most used rooms in a house, but the kitchen is also one of the most expensive rooms to replace.

You don't have to spend a fortune to give the hub of your home a makeover, though.

By choosing just a few aspects of a kitchen to update, it's possible to change the whole look, without breaking the bank.

1. UPDATE YOUR TILES

"New wall tiles can instantly update the look of your kitchen, as well as make a statement," says blogger Kate Watson-Symth, who has partnered with B&Q to share her kitchen makeover tips.

"Metro, or subway, tiles are a classic shape, but try laying them in a herringbone or vertical pattern – instead of the traditional brick arrangement.

"Patterned tiles are also a great way of adding character and personality.

You could also mix and match colours, to create random designs and a completely bespoke look.”

White floating shelf, £9, B&Q

2. ADD OPEN SHELVING

"I’m a big fan of open shelving. It’s a great way to show off pretty glasses and plates.

"But make sure you work out what you want to display so you can consider the height of the shelves and the weight of what will go on them.”

Matt black kitchen taps, £47, B&Q

3. FRESHEN UP WORKTOPS AND SINKS

Updating your worktops can have a huge impact for a fraction of the price of a full renovation.

"There’s a huge choice available now and don’t be afraid to mix materials and finishes," says Watson-Smyth. "Consider a wooden worktop on an island, where people might sit and eat, and a quartz-effect worktop around the sink and cooking area.

4. MAXIMISE SURFACE SPACE

"De-clutter the kitchen. Be ruthless and either throw out, recycle or donate items that you no longer use or need.

"Keeping the surfaces clutter-free will make the whole room look bigger. Look out for pan lid organisers you can hang inside cupboard doors and over-the-door spice racks to help you stay organised.”

5. INTRODUCE ON-TREND COLOURS

"Paint is a great way to add colour and personality at low cost.

"Paint your cupboard doors or think about adding a dramatic colour, such as charcoal or navy, on the wall.”

Multi-coloured ceramic tiles, £16.80 for pack of 14, B&Q

6. BRING ON THE PATTERNS

"Dress up your kitchen by using patterned wallpaper or tiles.

"Choose bold patterns such as on-trend dark florals or heavily patterned tiles to really work the look."