Creating a new look in the kitchen doesn’t have to involve an entire design overhaul; there are loads of ways to sculpt a fresh perspective on your space at half the price. Here’s our guide to getting a junkshop chic kitchen. Thrift is the ultimate thread underlying the entire design theme – looking for ways not just to save money, but also create a bespoke look and feel. Creativity and foresight will be needed to look beyond the shabby or plain exterior and see the potential lurking beneath.
Die hard vintage lovers will load their pockets with cash and hit the local car boots, charity shops, house clearance and online auction sites – do your research and plan well, make sure you know the measurements and dimensions required, carry a tape measure and be sure to have a transportation/delivery plan. Pay attention to the structural qualities of items on offer, bypass the colour, finish or fittings – these can all be replaced, the actual build is what will count in the long run.
If second hand chic is not your thing, explore budget kitchen ranges – simple carcasses and plain doors are easy to transform with colour and creative fittings. Sanding back kitchen units and applying a new lick of paint can either cheer up old units or alternatively offer a completely new feel to the room – if opting for colour, choose carefully, looking for shades that complement the tone of the room. Painting one cabinet door can be a good way of trialling bold choices. Handles are also a surprisingly effective way to change the entire look of a cabinet, especially in fitted kitchens. Choose from coloured glass, antique brushed chrome or brass, or rustic wooden, opting for simple unit finishes to accompany outrageous handles.
Vintage chic is also being incorporated into new design with retro influences delivered in high tech format – huge, ‘50’s inspired larder fridges, stainless steel juicers, traditional coffee makers and efficient modern Agas are available for redesigns with some cash to splash. Otherwise keep an eye out for small design classics that can pep up an unremarkable kitchen – gingham curtains, big bold clocks, vinyl table tops and 60’s and 70’s retro table wear are all quick wins to achieving budget vintage chic style.