1. Paint the cabinets
The easiest, cheapest and most effective way to modernise a kitchen? Paint the cabinets. If they are in good condition, you can reuse them to save money. Here are a few tricks designers use to combine economy and style.
In this before-and-after photograph, the kitchen's solid oak cabinets have been preserved, then sanded and finally painted black. When the furniture is of good quality, this remains the best option.
© Leroy Merlin
In this project, the cabinets were spray-painted, but you can also paint them by hand. Brush painting leaves a visible texture, which can add an interesting aesthetic effect.
Don't put your paintbrush away too quickly...
Once you've tackled the cupboards, you can also paint the walls and ceiling, and even the tiled backsplash if you have one.
2. Changing the backsplash
Instead of painting the backsplash, you can replace it completely (or add one if it doesn't exist!).
© But
3. Replacing hardware
Whether you change the colour of the cabinets or not, new hardware can transform the look of your kitchen. Different types of hardware can be mixed and matched for a personalised look. Order samples to make sure the handles match the style of your kitchen.
© Leroy Merlin
4. Try out new lighting
For a quick impact, install new light fittings. And please, replace the recessed spotlights with original, hand-crafted pendant lights. This will immediately transform the ambience of the kitchen. Avoid kitchens with too much light, like operating rooms, and opt for chandeliers and old-fashioned pendant lights to illuminate islands.
To help you decide, we've written a guide to help you make your choice.
© Luz Editions & Devol kitchens
5. Adding alternative, practical furniture
Need more storage space or room to prepare your meals? No need to invest in traditional kitchen cabinets. Free-standing units can be a practical solution, and like quality light fittings, they can follow you when you move house. Opt for antique pantry units and alternative islands.
© IDEAT
© Côté Maison
Before/after picture (c) Leroy Merlin
Tiphaine Verdier @lescauseuses
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