‘We upcycled our old kitchen for a new look'

It’s surprising what you can do with a bit of paint and some new handles – as Catherine and Matthew Williams discovered when they gave their ‘safe’-looking kitchen a makeover

- LINDA CLAYTON

HOW CATHERINE AND MATTHEW DID IT

‘The previous owners had invested in oak bespoke cabinets and marble worktops, and left a range, which we loved, so at first, we decorated in greys and whites, and put cladding on the dining area wall. After six years, it was looking tired and we wanted to go bolder. The bones stayed the same, but we painted the units, woodwork, dining chairs and walls, then swapped the chrome fixtures for brass. We’re usually drawn to blues, so it was a bit of a curveball for us to go green, but the way it contrasts with the pink and milky white walls, marble and brass really works well. The work took less than three weeks, which had very little impact on our family, and cost £2,000 for the labour. It is amazing what a huge difference some simple but bold changes have made!’ See more of the house @catherinel.williams.

Make it work for you

CATHERINE’S CHOICE: DESIGNER SOCKETS

The latest sockets now come in striking colours and finishes that are guaranteed to brighten up walls

Switching out white sockets for fancy designer ones is a quick way to achieve a smart, coordinated look. It’s also a chance to include options that take care of charging devices.

Q Does one size fit all?