Photography: Are media syndication, babiche martens
As a real estate agent, I have seen many kitchens over the past 12 years, so I feel well qualified (in my humble opinion) to share what resonates with me regarding kitchen design and the absolute deal breakers.
The kitchen is the most important room of the home — the anchor. It’s the space where children feel comfortable and where guests (annoyingly) tend to gather during social occasions. A kitchen is warm and nurturing, yet functional enough to blend into your home’s overall aesthetic. Kitchens can be a very expensive part of the house to update, but there are many ways to achieve a fabulous look without breaking the bank. If you are happy with the layout of your kitchen, you are off to a great start. With good bones, you can transform a kitchen on a budget.
1. Kitchen cupboard
Keep the kitchen cupboards and drawer fronts if they are in good condition. Repaint them using a reputable spray painter/kitchen makeover company. A three-pot paint system gives you a beautiful finish.
2. Benchtops
For the benchtops, I have seen Formica tops that look like a composite stone or marble. Porcelain is the new option; it doesn’t stain or etch but is more expensive.
You can mix bench colours: a white bench around a cooktop can be combined with a nice slab of composite or porcelain on an island.
3. Soft closing
Add soft closing componentry. That is the first thing buyers check out in an open home.
There are different grades of hardware; don’t choose the cheapest, but jump to a slightly higher level and you will be fine.
4. Handles
New handles completely transform a kitchen. Similar styles from top brands are available, allowing you to stamp a little touch of individuality – don’t be afraid to go bold with contrasting colours on your cupboards and drawers. If you have a white kitchen, go black or bronze with your handles.
5. Splashbacks
For splashbacks, glass is a clean cheaper option, but if you have a relatively plain kitchen, then this is your hero space. I would always try to have an earthy large mosaic tile or something quite organic. White tiles with light grouting will stain – have some fun here (no lime green, please).
6. Appliances
Appliances can be a minefield when you walk into some stores, but if you stick to a trusted brand you can’t go wrong. The main advice here is consistency. If you choose a matte-finish stainless steel fridge, for example, maintain that matte theme with your oven, microwave and dishwasher.
The kitchen can set the tone for the surrounding living, dining and even outdoor areas, determining the colour scheme for flooring, walls, soft furnishings, rugs, drapes and even furniture. Engage a trusted friend or a kitchen consultant to confirm you’re on the right track. Do your research, scroll through your favourite magazines and online sites for inspiration and create a moodboard or a selection of colourways you gravitate to.
If you do your homework, you can find great alternatives inspired by high-end fitouts.
Check out secondhand kitchens online; there might be a slab of stone going for a song, which may become your new feature island.
Lastly, stick to your budget, but if there is room to spend a little more, do it. Kitchens sell homes.
Read more:
- Luxe for less: 20 ways to elevate your home without overspending
- Inspiring bathroom makeover trends for 2026
- 11 vibrant kitchens to inspire your next renovation
