Fresh looks needn’t mean big spend. In a London rental, a couple secured landlord permission with a simple pitch and mock-ups, then refreshed their kitchen for about £300. They painted cracked Laura Ashley tiles with Ronseal One Coat Tile Paint Satin White, applying four coats and light sanding between each pass.
They kept the existing carcasses and focused on visible surfaces. DIY shaker-style doors were made from 6mm moisture‑resistant MDF strips, primed with Wickes Trade Universal Primer and finished with Ronseal One Coat Cupboard Paint. New gold handles and clever lighting lifts the overall look.
The landlord replaced the extractor fan, washing machine and ceiling light, while a low-cost MDF panel hid the boiler. Tools were simple: roller set, mitre or hand saw, 240‑grit sandpaper and a drill/driver set. This project shows that careful planning, real brands and a modest budget can give a room a brand new feel without an upheaval.
Key Takeaways
- Plan with the landlord and present clear mock-ups for approval.
- Keep carcasses where sound; repaint doors and tiles for big savings.
- Use known brands and correct paint systems for lasting results.
- Small hardware and lighting changes create a more considered, high‑end look.
- Prepare a realistic budget and simple contingency to avoid surprises.
Start here: a friendly plan to refresh your kitchen on a tight budget
Start with a short plan that lists the things that most irritate you in the kitchen and ranks fixes by impact and cost. Note obvious issues first—mouldy sealant, chipped tiles or tired handles—and tackle the smallest tasks that change the feel of the space quickly.
In a London rental example, the couple replaced sealant before buying anything, sketched designs in Adobe Illustrator and built an Excel budget. They kept labour costs down by committing to do the work themselves and shared visuals by email to get landlord approval from abroad.
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Map the project into stages so the room stays usable between jobs. Make a simple shopping list with essentials such as tape, sandpaper and rollers. Sketch colours and finishes to avoid wasted purchases and to keep the home cohesive.
- Prioritise cosmetic vs essential fixes so your diy effort focuses on high-impact ways to make kitchen changes.
- Create a rough schedule by day and time, accounting for drying times and meal needs.
- Keep a notes app or spreadsheet to track spend, steps and small issues for later.
| Quick win | Typical cost | Approx time |
|---|---|---|
| Refresh sealant | £5–£15 | 1–2 hours |
| Paint doors or tiles | £30–£120 | 2–8 hours (plus drying) |
| Swap handles & styling | £10–£60 | 1–3 hours |
| Sketch & budget (planning) | Free–£10 (print) | 1–3 hours |
Set a realistic budget and contingency the UK way
Decide an overall figure early and protect it with a contingency for hidden issues. That single step keeps choices sensible and prevents small surprises turning into big bills.
Rule of thumb: aim for 5–10% of your home’s value for a full project, and scale down if you only plan cosmetic updates.
Rule of thumb: spend 5–10% of your home’s value
Use the home’s market value as a guide. This helps you balance long-term value against immediate money limits.
Add a contingency of at least 15% for surprises
Always reserve at least 15% for unseen repairs or price rises. Structural changes raise risk and need extra allowance and time.
“Keep appliances where they are to avoid extra pipework costs and delays.”
- Set categories — paint, handles, lighting — so you can shift money if costs change.
- Get two or three itemised quotes and favour fixed‑price contracts where possible.
- Track spend weekly against your plan to spot overruns early.
Plan your space before you spend: layout tweaks over structural changes
Often the smartest way to gain space is by reorganising how you use the existing footprint. Small changes can improve flow, reduce disruption and stretch your project budget further.
Keep walls where they are and optimise the work triangle
Assess the room first. Many kitchens feel larger after repositioning cupboards or swapping internal storage. Focus on the work triangle between hob, sink and fridge for easier movement.
Try paper mock-ups to test appliance clearance and door swing before spending money.
Consult a builder or architect if you’re considering knock-throughs
If you eye a knock-through, get a professional to check load-bearing walls and approvals. Keeping plumbing and electrics where they are saves time and cost.
Only escalate to structural work when benefits clearly outweigh added complexity and expense.
| Option | Impact on space | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Reorganise storage & doors | Medium — better flow | £0–£50 |
| Swap appliance positions (no replumbing) | Small — improves use | £0–£100 |
| Non‑load-bearing knock-through | High — open plan | £1,000–£6,000 |
| Full structural change | Very high — new room layout | £5,000+ |
Renting? Get your landlord’s approval for cosmetic upgrades
Before you start, send a short, friendly proposal with photos and simple mock-ups. Tenants in our example secured approval by explaining scope, offering neutral finishes and confirming they would cover materials and labour.
Most landlords favour neutral choices for doors, walls and tiles, so lead with classic colours. Say which fixed items you’d like them to replace — an extractor fan or ceiling light — and that you’ll handle the cosmetic work.
Make sure you outline timings so the kitchen stays usable. Reassure the landlord about professional standards where needed and note any reversible changes, such as new handles or removable shelving.
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- Draft a brief email with before photos and mock-ups that show the finished look.
- Offer neutral colours and confirm you’ll pay for materials and labour.
- Ask about inspections, document approvals in writing and keep receipts and after photos.
- If bold colour is refused, choose subtle, smart upgrades for a neater home.
| Item | Who covers | Approx time |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic paint or new handles | Tenant | 1–3 days |
| Extractor, light or appliances | Landlord (usually) | Days–weeks |
Keep, refresh, or replace: making smart calls on appliances and carcasses
Choosing which appliances and carcasses stay can save days of work and a fair amount of money. Make decisions item by item and weigh disruption against visual gain.
Retain working appliances and keep plumbing in place
Keep any appliance that still works and isn’t an eyesore. Replacing only failures controls cost and hassle. Leaving sinks, washing machine and dishwasher where they are avoids extra pipework and unexpected bills.
Re-use solid carcasses; focus on visible fronts
If carcasses are sound, refresh end panels, plinths and cabinet doors for maximum impact. Many units use standard sizes, so swapping or ordering replacement cabinet doors is often straightforward.
- Decide per item: keep / refresh / replace so you have a clear option for each unit.
- Factor in extractor ventilation and a neat ceiling light — practical updates that improve daily use.
- If renting, ask whether the landlord will cover essential replacements while you handle cosmetic work.
“Retaining plumbing locations saves both time and money.”
| Item | Best option | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Working oven or hob | Keep | £0–£50 (clean/replace fascia) |
| Sound cabinets | Refresh fronts | £30–£200 (doors or paint) |
| Old washer or dishwasher | Replace if faulty; conceal if matching | £150–£400 (appliance) / £20 (front) |
Budget cabinet upgrades that look brand new
Focusing on visible surfaces gives the biggest visual return for the least cost. Start with small, deliberate changes rather than wholesale replacements. That approach keeps disruption low and results quick.
Paint existing doors: prep, primer and the right paint for wood, MDF or laminate
Remove doors and clean them with sugar soap. Lightly sand with 240‑grit, dust off, then prime with Wickes Trade Universal Primer. Roll on Ronseal One Coat Cupboard Paint for a smooth finish.
Tip: use a roller over a brush and apply thin coats, sanding lightly between each one for durability.
Swap just the doors: sizes and what to check before buying
Many cabinet doors are standard widths — often 500mm or 600mm. Measure door width, height and hinge positions before ordering replacements.
Check hinge centres and hole spacing so new doors fit without extra cutting or new hardware holes.
Handles make the look: brass, bronze or gold for instant style
New cabinet handles change the feel under the hand and the overall style. Gold or brass tones lift neutral paint and add warmth.
Keep screws and hinges labelled while you work so reassembly is quick and accurate.
DIY shaker style with MDF strips for a bespoke feel
For shaker fronts, fix 6mm moisture‑resistant MDF strips (≈65mm wide) with instant grab adhesive. Sand, prime and paint as above.
A mitre saw or hand saw, adhesive and basic tools are all you need for this diy upgrade.
| Upgrade | Main steps | Typical time |
|---|---|---|
| Paint doors | Clean, sand, prime, roll 2–3 thin coats | 4–24 hours (plus drying) |
| Swap doors | Measure, order standard size, fit hinges | 2–6 hours |
| DIY shaker fronts | Attach MDF strips, sand, prime, paint | 6–12 hours |
| New handles | Measure back‑to‑back, drill, fit | 1–2 hours |
Tiles and splashbacks on a shoestring
A fresh splashback can change the feel of the whole room without ripping out units or plumbing. For dated tiles, paint is the low-cost option that works well when prepped correctly.
Prep well: clean, key and de-grease tiles thoroughly. Use a roller rather than a brush and apply multiple thin paint coats. Lightly sand with 240‑grit between coats to remove fibres and smooth the finish.
Budget splashback choices
Metro tiles give a classic, durable look. Glass panels clean easily and add reflective light in a small room. Acrylic and aluminium composite panels fit quickly and cause little mess.
For bold visuals, PVC mural panels fix fast and are kinder on the wallet than full tiling.
Sealant and neat lines
Refresh worn sealant to banish mould and sharpen the junction between cabinet, worktop and wall. Mask edges carefully and cut in neatly; tidy lines around sockets feel intentional and professional.
- Test paint on a discreet section and live with it for a day.
- Keep doors and windows ajar while coatings cure for better airflow.
- Use basic tools: roller, sandpaper, masking tape and a good sealant gun.
“Clean prep and patience with thin coats makes painted tiles look like new.”
Worktops that don’t wipe out your budget
If the bases beneath your tops are sound, resurfacing gives a brand new finish with minimal fuss. A thin stone overlay can be fitted in hours and usually leaves wall tiles and upstands untouched. That makes this option fast, tidy and high in value.
Resurface over existing tops for a fast, durable upgrade
Professional overlay systems sit on top of existing worktops. They reduce mess and downtime and often avoid damaging tiles at the back edge.
Plan the sequence so sinks and hobs are removed and refitted the same day. Protect cabinet doors and end panels during work to prevent accidental damage.
Paint or wrap as a short-term fix; when to step up materials
Specialist paint kits and quality vinyl wraps are low-cost options that refresh look quickly, though longevity varies. For busy households, tougher, stain-resistant materials often justify the extra costs.
- Consider laminate replacement for good value; check edge profiles and the risk of breaking adjacent tiles.
- Match worktop colour to cabinets and doors for a cohesive feel; subtle contrast ages better.
- Choose materials by use and value so the finish lasts under daily wear.
“An overlay can deliver a brand new surface without ripping out units.”
Flooring that’s affordable, durable and DIY-friendly
Flooring choices can lift the whole room without large cost or long disruption.
Luxury vinyl and vinyl floor tiles: cost, fitting and moisture resistance
Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) and vinyl floor tiles are cost-effective and hardwearing. They resist moisture better than laminate and are softer underfoot than stone. Many vinyl planks can be laid over existing floor tiles, saving demolition time and mess.
Laminate, cork, bamboo and linoleum: eco and budget considerations
Laminate is a quick click-lock option but watch moisture ratings and expansion gaps. Cork gives warmth and sound-dampening. Bamboo and linoleum are greener materials with classic appeal and good durability.
- LVT and vinyl floor tiles suit busy homes and confident diy installers.
- Order extra packs for repairs; batches can vary slightly between runs.
- Check door clearances and trim plinths so the floor finishes neatly and the space flows.
- Choose slip-resistant, easy-clean textures if anyone is unsteady on their feet.
- Plan board direction: running boards lengthways often makes narrow kitchens feel bigger.
| Option | Typical cost | Durability |
|---|---|---|
| LVT / vinyl floor tiles | £10–£40/m² | High, moisture-resistant |
| Laminate | £7–£25/m² | Medium; avoid water exposure |
| Cork / bamboo / linoleum | £15–£45/m² | Good; eco-friendly choices |
“A practical floor choice saves money, time and future repairs.”
Light, styling and small details that change the whole room
Good lighting and small styling choices can transform a tired room into a calm, useful space.
Layered lighting: LED ceiling, under-cabinet strips and pendants
Upgrade the old ceiling light with a modern LED fitting to brighten work zones and reduce energy use. Add under-cabinet LED strips for shadow-free prep and crisp task light.
Layer warm pendants over an island or table to add intimacy and depth. Fit dimmers so evening scenes feel relaxed and useful without extra wiring.
Open shelving, paint and hardware for instant uplift
Open shelving is an affordable way to increase storage and display. Use it sparingly and group items by colour and function so the shelf looks neat and stays practical.
Fresh paint on a feature panel or walls harmonises with new hardware and gives doors and drawers a calm backdrop.
- Upgrade to a modern LED ceiling light to make the room feel instantly fresher.
- Add under-cabinet strips for shadow-free prep and layer pendants for warmth.
- Swap in gold handles or other quality hardware — small details reshape the overall style without changing cabinets or doors.
- Match metal finishes across handles, tap and lighting for a consistent, grown-up look.
- Keep shelf groupings tidy so the space feels airy and is easy to clean.
“Layered lighting and matched details make a functional space feel intentional and lived in.”
How to renovate a kitchen for cheap: a step-by-step game plan
Set a clear budget, note any permissions needed and list the key tasks before picking up tools. This short plan keeps the project controlled and helps you agree timings with a landlord if you rent.
Plan and approve: budget, landlord permission, timelines and tools
Make sure permission is in writing if you do not own the property. Include simple mock-ups and a scope so the landlord can approve changes quickly.
Prep and paint: walls, tiles, cabinets and doors for maximum impact
Good prep matters. Deep clean with sugar soap, sand with 240‑grit and mask edges. For tiles, roll multiple thin coats and sand lightly between each one. For cabinet doors, remove, clean, prime and roll paint with a smooth finish.
Finish strong: handles, lighting, floor updates and tidy sealant
Fit new handles with a template for consistent holes. Refresh sealant around sinks and splashbacks. Swap the ceiling fitting and add under‑cabinet strips for instant task light.
- Step 1: Plan budget, timeline, gather tools and materials, and make sure permission is signed.
- Step 2: Deep clean, degrease and mask — prep saves time later.
- Step 3: Prime and paint walls and tiles; roll thin coats and sand as needed.
- Step 4: Tackle cabinet doors and kitchen cabinets — clean, prime and paint or fit new fronts.
- Step 5: Fit handles, refresh sealant, update lighting and lay any planned flooring.
“A clear checklist and the right tools make the project feel smaller and finish faster.”
UK costs, timelines and where to save vs splurge
Smart spending choices mean small changes can look premium while critical items perform.
Save where it won’t affect daily use: keep plumbed appliances in place and repaint doors rather than swap carcasses. A DIY vinyl floor laid over existing tiles is a low‑mess, budget option that adds instant polish.
Save: simple, high‑impact moves
- Keep the washing machine and other plumbed items where they are to avoid pipework cost.
- Repaint doors and fit new handles for significant visual value at low money outlay.
- Lay LVT or vinyl yourself over tiles as a durable DIY choice.
Splurge selectively
Spend more on things you use daily. Durable worktops, a reliable extractor and quality lighting repay their cost through comfort and longevity. For trade work, get two or three detailed quotes and prefer fixed‑price options where possible.
Typical timeframes
| Project type | Typical cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Light cosmetic kitchen makeover | £50–£400 | Weekend |
| Staged updates (doors, floor, lighting) | £400–£2,000 | Weeks (staged) |
| Higher‑value upgrades (worktop, extractor) | £500–£3,000+ | Days–weeks |
“Stage tasks — paint, then hardware, then lighting — so the room stays usable.”
Balance spend against your property value and the expected years you’ll keep this new kitchen. Keep a simple log of changes and dates; it helps plan maintenance and future renovation choices. For more detailed budgeting and examples, see this practical guide: budget kitchen guide.
Conclusion
One or two well-chosen tweaks usually change the whole look of a room. The London rental example showed that tile paint, DIY shaker strips and simple hardware swaps gave a near brand new finish for very little money.
Keep what works structurally and focus on surfaces, handles and cabinet fronts. Gold or brass pulls lift neutral paint and help kitchen cabinets read as higher value.
Work in stages, follow a short plan and check landlord permissions where needed. For extra budgeting tips, see this budget kitchen guide.
Finish by stepping back and doing small touch-ups. That one tidy sealant line or fresh coat can make the whole kitchen feel cared for and welcoming.
FAQ
What is the quickest way to refresh kitchen cabinets without replacing them?
Give cabinet doors a good sand, a primer coat and two thin topcoats of a durable paint suitable for wood, MDF or laminate. Replace or polish handles and hinges, and consider reglazing glass panels. This saves on carcass replacement and looks modern.
Can I keep my existing appliances when updating the room?
Yes. Retaining working ovens, hobs, fridges and washing machines avoids plumbing and electrical moves that drive up costs. Centre updates on visible surfaces like doors, worktops and splashbacks instead.
Are replacement cabinet doors a cost-effective option?
Often they are. Buying doors in standard sizes lets you refresh the whole aesthetic without new carcasses. Check hinge type and thickness before ordering, and factor in delivery and fitting.
Which handles give the best visual impact for little money?
Brushed brass, bronze or gold-tone handles lift plain doors instantly. Choose consistent styles for drawers and doors, fit with quality screws, and tighten or replace old backplates for a neat finish.
Is painting splashbacks a reliable alternative to tiling?
Tile paint and specialist primers can work well on existing tile or sealed surfaces. Use rollers for smooth coverage, apply multiple thin coats and seal grout lines where needed. For wet areas, consider acrylic or glass panels for longevity.
How can I get a shaker look without bespoke doors?
Attach thin MDF battens to existing flat doors to create shaker-style frames. Glue and pin the strips, fill seams, sand smooth and paint. It’s an affordable DIY trick for a custom feel.
When is resurfacing a worktop acceptable?
Resurfacing suits solid tops that are structurally sound but scratched or tired. Epoxy coatings, specialist paints or thin laminate overlays extend life at low cost. Replace only if water damage or structural failings exist.
What’s the best budget flooring for a busy kitchen?
Luxury vinyl and vinyl floor tiles offer water resistance, durability and easy DIY fitting. Laminate can work too if moisture is managed. For eco options, consider cork or linoleum with proper sealing.
How much contingency should I include in a UK budget?
Add at least 15% contingency for unexpected repairs, wiring, or plumbing work. This follows sensible UK renovation practice and prevents mid-project budget strain.
Do I need landlord permission for cosmetic upgrades in rented property?
Yes. Get written approval before painting, replacing doors or fitting new fixtures. Some landlords accept reversible changes; keep receipts and restore where required at tenancy end.
Can I DIY electrical and gas work during a makeover?
No. In the UK, gas and most electrical work must be done by qualified engineers (Gas Safe registered or NICEIC/Part P compliant). Hire professionals for safety and insurance reasons.
What small styling changes deliver the biggest return on investment?
New lighting, updated handles, fresh paint, crisp sealant lines and open shelving create high impact for modest cost. Good lighting and quality extractor fans are worth splurging on for comfort and resale value.
How long does a weekend makeover usually take?
A focused weekend can cover painting doors, swapping handles, fitting new lights or laying peel-and-stick vinyl. Larger tasks like replacing worktops or moving appliances need several days and possibly tradespeople.
Where should I splurge versus save in my budget?
Save on keeping appliances and carcasses, repainting surfaces and using vinyl flooring. Splurge on durable worktops, quality lighting, a good extractor and reliable plumbing fixtures for longevity and value.
