Eastlife January 2019

How to update a
kitchen on a budget
If your kitchen is looking tired and the thought
of a new kitchen is making you anxious, rather
than purchasing an entirely new kitchen, update
the kitchen you already have. There are many
ways to do this on a budget. With so many
products out there to choose from it’s sometimes
hard to decide which area to give ‘a new look’.
Here’s seven tips to help you through the maze
of information. It’s actually a lot easier and less
expensive than you would think.
Replacing handles
Without a doubt this is by far the most cost-effective way
to update your kitchen. All you need is a screwdriver,
places such as Homebase and B&Q offer chrome door
handles for as little as a £1, so there really is no excuse.
Painting the doors and drawers
It’s incredible what a tin of paint can do, if I have a client
that wants a change of colour and they are not used to
painting furniture, I suggest they use chalk paint. The
great thing about chalk paint is there is absolutely no prep
work involved at all. All you have to do is paint straight on
top of what you have. Unless of course, you are painting
over high gloss in which case you would have to sand
Written by Cindy Fuller,
Founder of Designs Direct
(www.designsdirect.co.uk)
them first. You can purchase a good range of chalk paint
colours and again these are available from places such as
Homebase and B&Q. Remember to wax them after the
paint has dried to keep them protected from everyday
wear and looking good. It’s also fun to do paint effects
with chalk paint such as sponging, dragging or you could
try a stippling effect. The finish would depend on the
brush you use.
eastlife.co.uk 89