Expert Advice - How to dress-up a plain kitchen - By Laura Ellis

You want your kitchen to reflect your personality and style, right? 

Well with good design, clever use of color and décor pieces you can create a kitchen that you love and is unique to your style and home.  

Whether you are a well-seasoned chef or have Uber Eats on speed dial, the kitchen is the heart of any home. But functional does not have to be boring. With good design, clever use of colour and key decor pieces, you can create a unique space that reflects your personality and style.

White on white  

Don ‘t be afraid to use white, a crisp white on the walls and cabinets will refresh any space. Clean light colours reflect natural light to brighten the room and make it seem bigger. Add depth with a stunning dark polished benchtop for big impact.

Making a splash  

A striking splash back is a simple way to create a focal point with the ‘wow’ factor. Play with colour, patterned or geometric tiles, or go bold with a mirrored or textured glass.

Adding personality  

A quick chic update is achievable with the countless traditional and contemporary handle styles available, you can be beautifully creative with your cabinet hardware, giving your kitchen a new feel.

Not just chrome 

Kitchen accessories have come a long way in recent years with alternatives to chrome now including brass, copper, white and black tapware in gloss or matte finishes. Do not be swayed by the latest trend, find the one that suits your style the most, there is plenty to choose from.

Functional and fun 

Chalk board paint brings bags of personality, a practical place for jotting down grocery lists or recipes as well as a great way to entertain the kids.

Peg Boards are a subtle addition that make a big difference, organise all your cooking tools on one wall with easy to reach access.

Bold Statements

Bar stools in vibrant colours are low risk way to make a statement. Try red or green hues for an easy but stylish way to add contrast to your kitchen. A fun mix of eye-catching colours makes for a quirky vibe & everyone will be drawn to.

Free-standing Interest

If you do not have much cabinet space, maximize your kitchen space with freestanding pieces like a roll out movable cart, drinks cabinet or butchers' block that compliments your kitchen. These pieces are versatile multipurpose hubs, providing extra storage and an added serving/prep area for the ultimate bonus.

Finishing touches

Use open or floating shelves to showcase collectables, plants or cookbooks and add your character. (Tip, put the lesser used items on the top shelf) Even simple racks to hang utensils or pans can bring character and a relaxed atmosphere to your kitchen.

Setting the mood.

The right lighting can transform your kitchen mood forming a bright, warm and inviting space that brings it all together. Whether it is a classic statement chandelier or a modern industrial fixture, placing the lights above the kitchen island will draw your eye up and complete your design scheme. Not forgetting the all-important LED task lighting under your wall units to illuminate your benchtop.

I hope you feel inspired by the list above to have the confidence to dress up your own kitchen!

If that has got you inspired, here’s a few extra thought starters....

• Choose a retro colourful appliance.
• Try a coloured sink Black or Copper.
• Add a bookshelf.
• Seek out some Rattan Stools.
• Install reclaimed wood rustic beams.
• Make use of a colourful rug runner.
• Use vintage finds or upcycled pieces.