If your current kitchen feels tired, outdated and downright boring, some low-key upgrades may be on the horizon. But for budget-conscious homeowners, these purchases almost never come to fruition.
How can you give your kitchen a whole new feel while keeping costs low? At Rehome, we say anything’s possible! Let our budget kitchen upgrade ideas inspire you to make the changes your home deserves.
1. Freshen up your cabinets
Are your cabinets structurally sound, but lack the joie de vivre they did when you first bought them? One trip to your local home improvement retailer will solve that! A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a tired kitchen, and you can usually find high-quality cans for a low cost.
Before you start painting, it’s essential to thoroughly clean your cabinets. Use a degreaser to remove any grime that has built up over time. After all, cooking oily foods can and, eventually, will leave residue on your cabinets.
Apply a primer to make sure the paint sticks for longer (or, buy a self-priming paint) and apply it in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
You can freshen up your cabinets even more by swapping out old handles and knobs for new ones. There are plenty of modern, classic, and vintage options available, many of which are available to purchase for between £5-£15.
2. Upgrade your backsplash
The backsplash, an extension of your worktop, may not receive as much attention as other parts of your kitchen, like the flooring or cabinets. Luckily, upgrading this area can make a big impact with minimal effort and expenditure. Tile stickers, for example, offer a quick and affordable revamp opportunity. These peel-and-stick options offer a hassle-free application process.
Simply measure, cut, peel, and stick the tiles onto your existing backsplash or wall. The variety of designs available is impressive, ranging from classic subway tiles to bold geometric patterns and even faux-marble finishes. For those looking to create a more substantial transformation, using paint or installing panels like acrylic or laminate can create a professional look at a fraction of the cost of traditional tiles.
3. Flooring solutions
While complete floor alterations are a costly endeavour, there are ways to upgrade your existing flooring without breaking the bank. If you have old, damaged wooden floors, consider painting them instead of replacing them. Doing so can hide imperfections and provide a fresh new look. Use durable floor paint and seal it with polyurethane to help it withstand kitchen wear and tear.
Or, switch to linoleum, a material that’s an overlooked but highly practical kitchen flooring option. It's sustainable, biodegradable, and durable (it can last around 30–40 years!)
Unlike vinyl, linoleum's patterns run through the entire material, so they won't wear out over time. It's also relatively easy to install and can be painted or stencilled if you want a fresh look without replacing it entirely.
4. Lighting enhancements
Every interior designer knows that the key to ambience is good lighting! Enhancing your existing lighting scheme doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Under-cabinet LEDs, for example, can be purchased for very cheap and are made to be installed underneath your wall-mounted kitchen cabinets.
These battery-powered lights come with an adhesive surface, which requires the purchaser to remove the protective covering: installation complete! For a more complicated installation, you can also buy multiple under-cabinet lights and wire them yourself. An even simpler, low-cost upgrade involves changing out old bulbs for newer, energy-efficient LEDs.
Purchase a colour-changing, remote-controlled option for greater control over your bulb's brightness and hues.
5. Creative storage solutions
As you acquire more ingredients, utensils, and cookware, a kitchen storage upgrade will be on the cards. But when you’re working with a budget, finding creative storage solutions that don’t make a significant financial dent can be difficult.
An option that may be more convenient, space-saving and budget-friendly than bulky freestanding cabinets is rolling carts! These widely available mobile storage units can be moved wherever you need them most!
Opt for a cart with shelves or drawers to store kitchen essentials like spices, utensils, or small appliances. When not in use, they can be neatly tucked away in a corner or even used as a fancy serving trolley for guests!
Or, if your main aim is to free up a cluttered counter, installing hanging rails and racks can make a fantastic DIY project. By installing a rail along your kitchen wall or underneath cabinets, you can hang utensils, pots, and pans.
6. Window treatments
Never underestimate the power of clean windows! Sometimes, the best upgrades are the simplest ones, and a thorough window cleaning can make a huge difference to your light levels. Say goodbye to your dark, gloomy room!
Start by dusting off any loose dirt with a soft brush or cloth. Then, use a mixture of water and a mild detergent or a specialised window cleaner to wipe down the glass. A microfiber cloth or a squeegee can help achieve a streak-free finish.
For an extra cost, you can upgrade your current blinds or curtains. Roller blinds are a practical choice, being easy to operate and clean. Sheer curtains are another budget-friendly option that can create a soft look while allowing light to filter through.
Shop for ex-display kitchens with Rehome!
Budget worries are at the forefront of every renovator's mind. But with Rehome’s simple tips and tricks, you can live in possible. We’re all about bringing your goals within reach, which is exactly why we’re the UK’s number one Kitchen, Bedroom, Bathroom outlet.
Our ex-display kitchens are known for their quality and value, with luxury brands like John Lewis, Acanthus, and Bulthaup available for thousands less than their RRP. Get a home you love for less with Rehome today!
