Kitchen Reno Recap | Charmer in Alexandra

Our kitchen renovation was all about adding practical elements to the existing space and updating the design. We kept the original benchtop, cabinetry and layout but gave it a completely new look. Check out our reno recap to see how we did it.

Tips for a Kitchen Renovation

Getting a brand new kitchen installed is costly, and if you have a kitchen with a good layout that is in good condition - you may be surprised how much of a transformation you can create with the kitchen you have. We painted all the original cabinets with Resene Rivergum and updated all the handles with a stunning brass design. We sanded back the rimu benchtop and coated it Danska Teak Oil. It is a highly 'refined' Linseed Oil product that brings out the grain of timbers and has a natural look.
Tile your splashback. Splashbacks are a practical option for your kitchen, offering protection for walls from cooking and cleaning splashes. A tiled splashback also adds to the design of your kitchen, gloss tiles reflect light making the space appear brighter, the pattern of the tile adds dynamics and energy visually and it gives the kitchen an expensive look - without the price tag. We tiled the around the whole surrounding of the benchtop and behind the freestanding stove for under $250. If you have a straightforward area to tile, this DIY task will be simple to achieve. And even if you have some more difficult elements to your surface area (like ours), with some extra patience, planning and care you’ll be able to master this skill. Full instructional video here.
Upgrade appliances and add more storage. We found a local cabinet maker who made a microwave box, wooden rimu shelf and custom integrated rangehood box. This design wasn’t just about the look of the kitchen (though we does look great), but the practical elements too. It gave us more bench space to prepare meals and the rangehood works well to gets rid of moisture and cooking smells.