In any home, the kitchen and dining room is place where people just love to congregate so it has to be up to the job. However, food and drinks spills, dirt tracked in from the stampede of feet as well as general wear and tear can leave the area looking tired. Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a lot to update it, creating an space that’s both functional and stylish.
GET FLOORED
First things first and that means starting from the bottom – the floor. While there are a few suitable options for a wet area including tiles and timber, if budget is your top priority you can’t go past vinyl. This affordable option has come a long way from the days of those daggy patterns you saw in your grandparents’ kitchen! Now, vinyl could easily be mistaken for timber or tiles, only it’s much quieter underfoot. Good quality vinyl from brands like Quick-Step has a protective top layer that’s both scratch and stain resistant; great when you have kids running around.
HIT REFRESH
Sometimes the easiest jobs provide the greatest result. Think: a quick sand and stain of your dining room table, or a coat of paint on your kitchen cupboards. A new splashback, dining room rug, tapware, or different chairs or bar stools can make a space feel brand-new.
SPACE SAVERS
If you lack cupboard space, the addition of floating shelves or hanging pots racks can keep frequently used cooking items and utensils from cluttering your bench. Not only that, but they’re quite a decorative feature!
NICE ACCENT
Anyone who’s watched an episode of The Block knows styling can make or break or room. So if your entertaining spaces are more shabby than chic, nick down to the homewares store pronto. Consider changing your colour scheme – whether you go bright, neutral or monochrome – pick one then buy a few decorative pieces to suit. Even a new set of place mats with matching crockery and a couple of modern vases or fruit bowl can add instant appeal.
LIGHT IT UP
Whether you want to change your lighting plan altogether or just update what you already have, bear in mind lighting sets the mood. In a work space such as the kitchen, you need overhead task lighting so consider having down lights or track lights installed. Also consider under-cabinet lighting that can be left on when overhead lighting is off for a softer-lit working space. The dining room calls for ambient lighting that creates a soft atmosphere for dining and get-togethers and a chandelier or pendant is just the ticket.
Brought to you by Quick-Step
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