Reusing and recycling materials can save huge amounts of energy, as well as costs. Looeeze Grossman explains why refurbished kitchens can be attractively sustainable options

There’s no doubt about it, kitchens are expensive. They’re also, usually, the heart of the home and used daily for everything from baking with the kids to cooking elaborate meals or simply making breakfast. Therefore, they need to be built to last and able to withstand a huge amount of traffic and use; when you think of it in that way, it’s not surprising how expensive they are. 

With a world of choice from designer showrooms through to high street giants and DIY stores offering kitchens for every budget, you’d be forgiven for thinking these were your only options. But ex-display, or even second-hand kitchens are a viable choice.

Not only will you be saving a kitchen from ending up in landfill, but you’ll also be saving a pretty penny or two. Ex-display kitchens can be picked up for around 70% off RRP. Used kitchens can start from as little as £1500 and often include worktops and appliances. A great buy, particularly as a single run of new quartz worktop could easily set you back over £2k.

THE SUSTAINABLE CHOICE

You’ll often be able to pick up a designer or high-end kitchen for the same budget as a DIY store alternative, meaning you’ll get better quality, a higher level of craftsmanship, and top-name appliances all included.

And this saving can be considerable, meaning you’ll be left with plenty to update your appliance package, that’s if your used or ex-display kitchen doesn’t already come with them included.

With consumers becoming increasingly aware of the sustainability credentials of their homes, buying used or ex-display is a win-win concept, as not only are you getting so much more for your money, but you are also doing your bit for sustainability at the same time. 

You’ll also not be on your own in the process if you work with a specialist. It can be daunting working without a designer, but by working with an expert you can get everything you want for your new kitchen, and often much more. Plus you’ll have the reassurance you haven’t missed any of those essentials or not left yourself enough space around your island. 

Buying a second-hand painted wooden kitchen offers up a host of possibilities. The structure can be very durable and long-lasting, and the beauty of wood is that it can be repainted again and again to suit different colour schemes. 

UPDATE THE DETAILS

One of the cheapest and easiest ways to give your kitchen a wow factor is to update the details. You can totally transform the kitchen with bespoke handles and designer taps. A hot water tap, and an easy-use hose-style tap will elevate any kitchen, as well as giving your kitchen extra functionality. 

Changing the colour of your taps and handles can also instantly make your kitchen seem more modern. A sleek black handle and matching taps teamed with chic accessories like a utensil pot or even your small kitchen appliances will bring everything together and instantly transform the space. 

Backsplashes have also moved on from their classic tiled look. You can now get beautiful vintage mirrored splashbacks, resin, ceramic or stone all crafted to look seamless. No more cleaning grout or worrying about whether the sealant will crack; modern splashbacks are now built to look seamless, chic and expensive.

And don’t be afraid to add in a patterned or veined splashback, adding that extra pop of detail or colour will add interest to the space. It can also often give you a key colour to pick out and use in your bar stools or blinds.

CONSIDER DECORATING, LIGHTING & PLUMBING

It’s also important to think about all those added extras which come with renovating your kitchen be that simply painting the walls through to laying new flooring. All of these need to be factored into the design and added to the overall budget. Lighting is also a big consideration, especially if you’re installing an island and want to include a feature light. If re-wiring isn’t an option, opt for battery-powered LED lighting which works with a remote. You’ll have the same great effect without a huge electrician or electric bill.

By blending a mix of old and new, existing with renovated and clever cost-saving design ‘hacks’ you’ll be able to achieve a great kitchen renovation, without costing the earth. 

Looeeze Grossman is founder and CEO of The Used Kitchen Company