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Renovation tips: Kitchen makeover on a budget

Renovating your house on a budget or getting it ready for sale? Or, maybe, just tired of your old kitchen bench and splashback?


With the help of Richelle and Ryan from Retro Revamp - see their own renovation story here - we've got the tips, tricks and expert advice on how to best go about your kitchen renovation on a budget.


Retro Revamp provide an alternative to the traditional room renovation process. Their philosophy is if it can be made new again then don’t throw it out - but they also know their way around a full bathroom reno. In this article, they share their wisdom.

Renovated kitchen in 1960s Mediterranean house in Adelaide
The kitchen in Richelle and Ryan's Place. Photo: Emily O'Brien for Place Journal

DON'T JUST RIP IT OUT

If your layout works, then definitely don't rush to rip out your kitchen cabinetry. Updating doors, benchtops and splashback tiles is a really savvy, cost effective way of creating a completely different look without the huge cost of new joinery.


STONE OR WOOD?

While stone looks amazing, it's not always the most durable finish for a benchtop - and it's super expensive. Laminates are the most durable product on the market, and the options for different looks are incredibly diverse.

Kitchen before a Retro Revamp makeover
A Retro Revamp kitchen renovation makeover

WHEN TO DO WHAT

When installing a new benchtop, you have the chance to update cooktops and sinks without it costing you extra - it makes sense to consider doing both of these elements at the same time


SPLASH IT WITH COLOUR

Splashback tiles are a great way to add colour and texture - replacing these is a pretty small and cost effective project.


THE DOORS

Door hardware is our favourite element to really up-spec your kitchen revamp. Door handles are not what they used to be - think silver and D shaped - you can now select from timber, white, bronze, black, brass and marble, and in so many different styles. We love local Adelaide company Lo & Co interiors for their range of handles and the quality.


Kitchen before  a Retro Revamp makeover
Adding colour in a kitchen makeover

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