Updated August 2024 by Joe Rantino
Is your kitchen at risk of getting heritage-listed – but not in a good way? You might think saving a dated kitchen is impossible without stripping everything out and starting again. But not everyone has the budget – or the patience – to commit to a full kitchen reno. The good news is that it’s possible to update and refresh a space without taking a sledgehammer to your benchtops or your bank account!
Get inspired with three easy kitchen renovation ideas that you can try this weekend – and some bonus kitchen upgrade ideas that your Sydney plumber can handle in just one call-out.
1. Peel and Stick Wall Tiles and Benchtop Covers
It’s hard to imagine a time when runner duck tiles and orange laminate benchtops were the ultimate trend, but someone was once extremely proud of the kitchen you now hate! Unfortunately, retiling splashbacks and replacing kitchen cabinetry is no small task – and it will make a serious dent in the budget.
A quick and affordable alternative is peel and stick wall tiles. Typically made from vinyl, stick on tiles are a fabulous way to instantly modernise your kitchen walls – and cover the offending old ones!
Modern, high-quality peel and stick tiles are:
- available in a range of colours, styles, and patterns including subway, herringbone, and fish scale
- heat and moisture resistant
- durable and easy to clean
- 3D in look and feel – no one will know they’re not real except you!
As always, you get what you pay so do some product research first. Read the product specifications, browse customer reviews, and opt for the best quality option your budget will allow for. If you have a gas stovetop, double-check that the brand of stick on tiles you’re considering is recommended for use near open flame.
For tired or dated countertops, consider vinyl counter wraps to instantly transform the surface. Alternatively, there are plenty of DIY painted countertops that look fabulous – including this marble-effect one.
2. Replace the Cabinet Hardware
Don’t underestimate the power of cabinet hardware to either make or break the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. You can drag your kitchen into the right time zone with new handles, a screwdriver, and an hour or two!
Interior designers sometimes describe kitchen hardware as the “jewellery of the home.” So even if your kitchen is minimalist in style, hardware is an opportunity to add a little flair or make a bold statement.
In 2024, kitchen hardware trends offer you plenty of choice – it’s just a matter of choosing a style that complements your existing colour scheme. Some of the highlights include;
- Mixed Metals: forget the uniformity of choosing one metal finish and making sure everything matches. Try polished nickel with brass, or brushed chrome with black.
- Different Handle Types and Sizes: shake off clean lines and embrace an eclectic mix of knobs, pulls and handles.
- Matte Black: a surprisingly enduring trend, black kitchen hardware can immediately elevate dated kitchens.
- T-Bars and Texture: the sleek T-bar handle offers form and function in any kitchen. Look for oversized T-bars in textured metal.
Keep in mind that ultra-trendy cabinet hardware can date quickly. So no matter what style you choose, make sure the hardware is functional. Head to a showroom to try the handles for yourself. How do they feel? Are they a pleasure to use? There’s nothing worse than trying to open a huge drawer with a fiddly little handle. Likewise, avoid using comically oversized T-bar handles on small cupboards.
Note: You might be inspired to update your tapware to complement your gorgeous new cabinet hardware. DIY plumbing mistakes are easy to make so call in the plumbing services Ryde homeowners trust for a job well done. Just call Joe!
3. Add Floating Shelves and Strip Lighting
Have a spare wall and need some extra storage? Maximise the space in your kitchen by adding floating shelves, racks, or rails. Floating shelves and their fixings are available at most hardware and home decorating stores. For example, IKEA has a range of inexpensive wall organisation products designed for small kitchens with limited cupboard space. Choose metal or timber to complement your kitchen aesthetic and carefully consider what you’ll use them to store. Balance shelf contents with practical kitchen items and decorative elements to achieve a styled look. Add plants for interest and texture.
Alternatively, you may like to create open shelving by removing the doors of existing upper cabinetry. It’s a relatively simple DIY job for a confident handyperson – check out this step-by-step guide. This is a great solution for dated cabinet doors that aren’t worth trying to restore. Open shelving can add visual interest to a space, breaking up the monotony of a row of cabinet doors. It also provides a space to display your favourite glassware or kitchen décor – and you can install adhesive LED strip lighting for a gorgeous glow.
More Small Kitchen Renovation Ideas for Big Impact
From new kitchen appliance installation to upgrading to a pull-out spray sink mixer tap, there are minor kitchen upgrades a plumber can do for you in one call-out that can really elevate the space and improve functionality.
- Plumbed fridge installation
- Tapware upgrades
- Water filter installation
- Replacing a smelly sink waste disposal
- Dishwasher installation
It’s wise to use a professional plumber for small jobs like appliance installation and changing tapware. You’ll have peace of mind that the job has been done correctly – which is important if you’ve just invested several thousand dollars on a new plumbed in fridge. You’ll also avoid the fallout of making DIY plumbing mishaps. All too often, our Sydney plumbers are called out to plumbing emergencies resulting from water hoses or waste being incorrectly connected. So don’t risk it! Get in touch with the plumbing professionals.
