kitchen Makeover On A Budget...Contd

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Windows
A window, whether it is a big one or a small one should be dressed up in a colourful fabric using a soft treatment to add warmth to a cooking space. We tend to think fabrics are unsuitable in kitchens as they get stained, greasy and dirty easily. Yes, they do; but you could put something fairly cheap and easily washable to liven up the space.

Countertop
Changing the countertop is not easy on the pocket, but there are several options that work well for the budget decorator. You do not need a granite top for the counter to look good. A lot of laminated options work just as well, at a fraction of the cost. All the counters do not have to be in the same material either. You could be creative and combine materials in a manner that makes it appear to be a conscious choice and not a wallet determined exercise. A nice decorative tile border running above the counter would make the kitchen seem a lot more 'cheerful'

Flooring
If you have the money, pay some attention to the flooring. You need not just think about vinyl, you can explore tile and laminate options as well, which do not cost all that much but transform the look of the space completely.

Value-Add
A nice new chimney could be something else you could think about that is useful and also would change the look of the kitchen, if you opt for a different type. When you go out shopping drop into a store that stocks plastic containers and jars and see how much it would cost you to get a set to replace all the ones you currently have on display in your kitchen.

Accessorise
You would be surprised how something as simple as that can make your kitchen look completely different. Small things but well coordinated with everything around them are all it takes to change the look of your kitchen. Hang up some colourful coffee mugs, nice wall plates, a bright clock, some interesting art and add bright flowers in small pots near the window --the place looks all that more inviting.

Basically, if you have a small kitchen, use the wall directly opposite the entrance door to create some drama and make a statement. Make sure things are stored in cabinets and not lying all over the place. Pay attention to colour and small aesthetic detailing to bring in some softness and visual appeal.

About the Author: Rekha I Nambiar is an interior designer based in New Delhi, specialising in furniture, window treatments and home furnishings.