an affordable kitchen renovation.

This weekend I need to make some final decisions about my kitchen renovation. Lucky it's a long one. It's  a tough task for someone who has been thinking about it for years and also spent much time designing kitchens for others- but with a fraction of the budget. I'm not going to live in my apartment forever so that boring little devil is sitting on my shoulder telling me not to over capitalise and to make "rental appropriate" design decisions. Whilst I'd like to kindly tell that little devil where to go, I know there is sense in what he says.

Plus, a good designer should be able to work with any budget. So yes, I've said goodbye to stone benchtops and Gaggenau appliances but here are some affordable fixtures and finishes that I'd happily welcome into my kitchen-to-be. I hope some of you fellow renovators can gain from the fruits of my research.

[1] Tiled splashback: Bevelled edge 200 x100 gloss from Classic Ceramics (around $45/sqm). (Image indicative via)

[2] Drawer insert: Ikea! I figure if you can't see it and there are no moving parts, it's not worth the splurge. Might check out their waste systems and other inserts too.

[3] Appliances: The Electrolux gives a high end look without an outrageous price tag. It's still not the cheapest but are great value for money. Appliances also seems like a worthy thing to pour your money into.

[4] Tapware: Phoenix Vivid Slimline Gooseneck Sink Mixer.

[5] Lighting: Okay, technically this light isn't available anymore but I want to keep my eye out and see if I can thrift it from somewhere. Image via.

[6] Vertical panels: Laminex in Charcoal. I find laminates don't look too shabby in dark colours because they get a flat, velvety finish. If you're brave and handy (of which I am neither) you can order flat packed kitchens through Kitset which are modular but can be ordered at 50mm increments and assemble yourself.

[7] Sink: Abey's Project range is very affordable. Not the slickest of sinks but inoffensive nonetheless.

[8] Benchtops: Essa Stone in New Crystal Salt, Velvet finish. I like the matte finish of this reconstituted stone and it works out cheaper than Caesarstone. It's also a very robust material which will be ideal for a rental.

Over the weekend while I'm drawings away, I might take a break and share some more thoughts on my kitchen. Less about budget practicalities and more about design. Until then!