INSIDER STYLE

Know the look you want but not sure where to make a start with the practicalities of a new kitchen? Our resident interior designer Andrew Griffiths shares his insider knowledge

Interior designer Andrew Griffiths shares his expert knowledge of where to save, where to spend and where to find the perfect pieces for your project.

WHERE TO SAVE AND WHERE TO SPEND

When it comes to your kitchen, whether you’re starting with a blank canvas or working with what you’ve got, give careful thought to where to cut back, so you can splurge elsewhere.

Save

If you’re working to a tight budget, head to Ikea or DIY Kitchens for low-cost units. Then use the money you’ve saved to buy some fabulous doors, like in this gorgeous kitchen by Holte (below right). Offering a big saving on tiles, using paint instead can provide a very cost-effective way of creating a practical and, just as importantly, impactful splashback. A panel of satinwood paint (as pictured below left) is an easy update, and looks clean and contemporary.

Spend

When it comes to deciding where to use your budget, as a general rule you should spend on the things you touch most. A budget worktop tends to feel and look cheap. So invest in a good quality option that feels luxe and will last. It’s easy to be tempted by bargains for kitchen taps you may spot on the internet, but with anything involving water, it’s always best to ensure you’re buying excellent quality. So keep some budget aside for a decent tap (and appliances) and you stand a better chance of them lasting as long as your kitchen.

Paint can be a budget-friendly alternative to tiles in a kitchen. Wall in Blue Vein Architects’ matt emulsion; splashback in Blue Vein Architects’ satinwood; cabinets in Porcelain II Architects’ ASP and Architects’ satinwood; all Paint & Paper Library

Holte is a bespoke design and build furniture company specialising in kitchens, allowing you to save by buying low-cost Ikea cabinets, then splashing out on bespoke fronts. In this Holte mid-century-style kitchen, teak veneer and off-white Formica come together with a white quartz and a dusky aquamarine splashback, bringing a super smart look. From £2,970 for a small kitchen.

Founder of interior design studio, A New Day, Andrew helps his clients create thoughtful, uplifting spaces that bring a smile. Follow him on Instagram @anewday_ interiordesign and find out more at anewdaydesign.studio

Quality taps and worktops are worth splashing out on. Suffolk kitchen in Walnut, from £8,000, Neptune