Affordable kitchen ideas: the perks of second-hand and ex-display kitchen units

A kitchen is one of the most functional areas within any home. However, functionality and appearance often go hand in hand, and we often find ourselves seeking a sleeker, more modern looking kitchen. Are you considering upgrading your kitchen in the near future? The main issue for many homeowners is governed by a rather tight budget. When considering the fact that an average renovation costs just over £8,000, what cost-effective options are at your disposal? Let us look at a handful of worthwhile strategies to keep in mind as well as some of the benefits associated with each. If you are looking to save money while enjoying all that a kitchen has to offer, the information below may very well come as a pleasant surprise.

The benefits of ex-display kitchens

One of the best ways to stretch a limited budget is to purchase a kitchen that was previously on display. Not only will the retail price be significantly marked down, but the chances are high that you can take advantage of numerous modern amenities and design options. It is also important to point out that ex-display kitchens have rarely had a great deal of wear and tear. In other words, you will essentially be able to refit the existing space with entirely new decor for a fraction of what this project, bought ‘new’, would typically cost.

Choosing second-hand kitchens

You might be surprised to learn that the purchase of second-hand kitchens is becoming an increasingly popular choice as well. There are several benefits associated with this method. First, customers will normally have a wide variety of second-hand kitchens to choose from; particularly when searching through reputable online portals. Secondly, a pre-owned kitchen will normally save consumers thousands or even tens of thousands of pounds when compared to committing to a full rebuild from the ground up.

It is likewise worth mentioning that fitting and installing a previously owned kitchen tends to be a rather straightforward process. Whether you are looking to prepare for an upcoming Christmas party or you do not have the time to become involved with a complicated renovation, second-hand units could very well represent the ideal solution.

All about the aesthetics: upgrading your existing kitchen cupboards

While the concepts mentioned above will undoubtedly come in handy, perhaps you are looking to modify the aesthetics of your kitchen as opposed to changing its entire layout. One of the best ways to address this desire is to replace existing kitchen cupboards. Most interior design specialists will note that cupboards tend to define the personality of this room, so it only makes sense that changing their appearance will have a massive impact on the existing ambience.

There are numerous ways in which you can spice up your kitchen environment. If you are looking to provide the illusion of space, cupboard doors with windows could be a great option. A coat of white or off-white paint will make a room look spacious and is an excellent idea if natural exterior light is limited. Even seemingly minor projects such as upgrading hardware (handles and hinges) can produce an astounding effect within a short period of time.

Taking the kitchen layout Into account

Always keep in mind that the existing kitchen layout will play an important role in terms of both functionality and comfort. Subtle changes can, therefore, have a lasting impact. For example, it might be a good idea to swap out traditional chairs for stools if you are looking to accommodate a substantial number of guests in the near future without sacrificing much additional floor space. Recessed ceiling lighting will likewise reduce the number of shadows; offering an open-air feel. If you notice that your kitchen worktops do not provide enough space due to the number of appliances you have, installing a few wall-mounted shelves will provide excellent results. French doors can help to tie this room and other areas of your home together; avoiding a “cramped” feeling. Finally, installing cost-effective laminate flooring will provide years of durability and provide a modern appearance.

The critical role of professionals

While all of the suggestions mentioned above will come in handy, the fact of the matter is that any task should always be carried out by trained industry professionals. This will save a great deal of time, and you can rest assured in the knowledge that nothing is left to chance in terms of quality. This is why we encourage you to take a look at our list of traders, who have each been thoroughly checked and approved so that you can find the right person for the job.