Kitchen Tips for Second-Hand Homes

 

If you are buying a second-hand home or simply have a home that has been lived in for ten or more years, it might be the time to consider revamping your kitchen.

We know that most families spend a huge amount of their time in the kitchen and how vital it is that the kitchen does what it should – it is the heart of most homes after all! With kitchens generally being considered one of the most important rooms in the home, it is not unusual for homeowners to spend upwards of 20,000 euro on their dream kitchen. For home-owners who are not in a position to splurge, we have put together some ideas and tips on bringing your tired kitchen space back to life. Here are a few handy tips:

 

Technology is your friend

 

The beauty of the digital age applies to your kitchen too. In fact, there are many smart devices out there to improve the heart of your home. With push-to-open cupboards, sensor sink taps and don’t get us started on the ever-expanding range of speciality coffee machines, you can have a kitchen that is smart. There are extractor fans with remote controls and fridges that boast connection to your smart device. It is incredible and there is no better way than bringing your kitchen up to date than with technology.

 

Make a budget

 

Before you get started, sit down and make a proper budget, then you can decide between what is a ‘must have’ and a ‘nice to have’. Take a break from online shopping and actually visit retailers for a full range of ex-display models and last of line supersales. New cupboards and drawers can be costly so perhaps the existing infrastructure can be upcycled with specialist paint and new fittings (pictured above). Likewise with white goods.

 

Pick a theme

 

You may find you are after a minimalist look or a more contemporary approach. Or you may love colours and will plan to have lots of brightness and flair in your kitchen. Whatever it is, go with something you love rather than the latest, fleeting, instagram trend that might well look dated in a short few years. Remember the outlay, a good rule of thumb is that your new kitchen should service your, your home and your family for at least ten or more years.

 

Consider fabrics and textures

 

Look at your kitchen space and consider how you can add texture to the room by the addition of rugs, carpet in the dining area or cosy blankets/throws for the backs of chairs. Don’t forget your curtains, blinds and shutters as they are vital in creating the right look and feel.

 

Let your creativity flow

 

Let your dream come alive with some personality and creative flair by picking funky taps, larger than usual sinks, granite worktops or wooden flooring. Whatever you want to do, do it and take this opportunity to have fun with it. Top tip: succulent plants are great for kitchens and there is a huge range of stylised pots that will complement your theme. Similarly, paint ornaments to create a unified scheme across the kitchen and dining area.

 

Get the floor and tiles done

 

It is expensive but if you are changing the kitchen you might as well factor in flooring and shop around for the best price. A good floor can perfectly round off the kitchen and make it more flattering to the eye. Furthermore, it cleans up the space! Finally, don’t forget to freshen up painted walls, ceilings, skirting and doors/architraves for a polished look.

 

For your FREE, no obligation, valuation in the South Wicklow and North Wexford area, call into one of our offices (located in Carnew and Gorey) and chat to any of our expert team or you can contact us online at kinsellaestates.ie. We are happy to facilitate overseas buyers and sellers via Skype or similar, outside of regular office hours.  Alternatively, email me directly on michael@kinsellaestates.ie or telephone: +353 53 94 21718