How to Accessorise Your Kitchen on a Budget

For many, the kitchen is the most important part of a household. It’s where you cook, it’s where you eat, and it’s where you entertain family and guests. It’s one of the most public rooms in a home, so it’s little surprise that you want to keep it looking its best, all the time.

Keeping a kitchen in great working order and keeping it looking great is no easy matter, and it’s by no means cheap either. Refitting an entire kitchen and giving it a new look costs even more money .There are, however, certain ways to accessorise your kitchen on a budget, from long-term money-saving investments such as installing quartz or granite worktops, to handcrafting your own shelves or buying secondhand products.

‍Granite or Quartz Worktops

‍Adding granite or quartz worktops to your kitchen may not seem like the cheapest way to accessorise. While there are certainly more budget-friendly options when it comes to changing the look and style of your kitchen, this is a long-term investment that will save you money in the long run.

Granite or quartz worktops add a whole new level of design to your kitchen, and you can use them to liven up and modernise your workspaces. They are fantastic investments because both materials not only look incredibly aesthetic, but are sturdy, hardy and durable.Granite and quartz worktops can last for decades if they are properly maintained and looked after. If you are looking for long-term value on an investment, there’s no other material that’s quite so suitable for a kitchen.

‍Shelving

‍While you usually need a professional to install granite or quartz worktops, there are other areas that you can work on yourself in the kitchen with minimal skills and knowledge.Shelving units are a fantastic way to save space and to keep organised. You might want a large shelf for your pots and pans, or a smaller shelf to keep all your spices and condiments in order. Simple shelves can be put up yourself with little effort and cost, and they are an excellent way to accessorise your kitchen on a budget.

‍Shop Secondhand

‍It’s a simple tip for accessorising your kitchen on a budget, but shopping secondhand can really help to keep your costs down. If you are on a tight budget, then head to charity shops and secondhand stores or look for online listings. Many items you might need for your kitchen can be found in this way and for a fraction of the cost of purchasing new. You can check the quality beforehand and often you’ll find yourself a bargain that has had minimal usage. As a bonus, you can feel good about helping the environment too and making use of something that would otherwise simply be going to waste.

‍Contact Granite & Quartz Installations and speak to our experts to find out more about accessorising your kitchen on a budget and making a long-term investment by installing quartz or granite worktops.

FAQ

Some questions & some answers

Where do you supply and install granite and quartz worktops?

Granite & Quartz Installations supplies and fits kitchen worktops across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and surrounding areas, with nationwide fitting also available. Our service areas include Manchester, Stockport, Wilmslow, Altrincham, Warrington, Chester, Bolton and Wigan. Send us your postcode with your enquiry so we can confirm availability for your address.

How much do quartz worktops cost?

Quartz worktop prices depend on your chosen stone, worktop dimensions, thickness and fabrication requirements. Sink and hob cut-outs, edge profiles, upstands, splashbacks and access to the property can also affect the total. Send us your kitchen plan or approximate measurements for a quote tailored to your project.

What information do you need for a worktop quote?

Please provide your postcode, contact details and a kitchen plan or the approximate length and width of each worktop section in millimetres. Include your preferred stone and details of any sink, hob, tap holes, drainer grooves, upstands or splashbacks. Let us know about stairs or restricted access too.

What is the difference between granite and quartz worktops?

Granite is natural stone, so its colour and pattern vary from slab to slab. Quartz is an engineered surface available in a wide choice of colours and designs, including marble-effect finishes. Both can suit kitchen worktops; the right choice depends on the appearance, maintenance requirements and budget you prefer.

What thicknesses are available for your worktops?

Our worktops are available in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses, depending on the selected stone. A 30mm worktop creates a more substantial appearance, while 20mm offers a slimmer finish. We can discuss the available thicknesses for your chosen design when preparing your quote.

What size are quartz slabs, and will my worktop need a joint?

Slab dimensions vary by stone and supplier. Whether your worktop needs a joint depends on the available slab size, kitchen layout, cut-outs and access to the property. We will discuss the proposed layout and any necessary joints before fabrication.

Are your worktops made to measure?

Yes. We template your kitchen to establish the measurements before fabricating the worktops to suit your layout. The finished pieces are planned around your cabinets, sink, hob and other agreed features.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Arrange templating once your kitchen base units are installed, securely fixed and level. This allows us to measure the finished layout accurately. Contact us earlier for an initial quote and advice on coordinating the worktops with your kitchen installation.

How long does it take from templating to installation?

We aim to manufacture and fit your worktops approximately seven days after templating. The timescale depends on your chosen stone, availability and project requirements. We will confirm the expected installation date when arranging your order.

How long does worktop installation take?

Installation usually takes around three to eight hours, depending on the size and complexity of your kitchen. Larger layouts, additional features or difficult access may require more time. We will discuss the expected fitting arrangements before installation day.

Can I see samples before choosing my worktops?

Yes. You can view a selection of granite and quartz samples at our Cheadle showroom or request free samples through our website. Viewing samples in your own kitchen can help you compare colours with your cabinets, flooring and lighting.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Can you install worktops in an upstairs kitchen or flat?

Yes, upstairs installations can be possible, subject to suitable access. Tell us about stairs, lifts, narrow doorways and other restrictions when requesting your quote. Additional labour charges may apply, and access can affect the size of the worktop sections we can bring into the property.

Can you replace my worktops without replacing the kitchen?

We offer worktop replacement as well as worktops for new kitchens. The existing cabinets and layout will need to be suitable for the new stone surfaces. Send us photographs and measurements so we can discuss your project and any preparation required.

Where is your granite and quartz showroom?

Our showroom is at Apex, Unit G037, Stanley Green Trading Estate, Duke Avenue, Cheadle, SK8 6RX. Contact us on 0161 302 8959 before travelling to check visiting arrangements and availability of the samples you would like to see.

Do you fit undermount sinks and connect the plumbing?

For undermount sinks, we secure the sink in position as part of the worktop installation. Suitable sink supports must be installed by you or your tradesperson beforehand. Securing the sink is separate from connecting the water supply and waste; please confirm the plumbing arrangements with us before installation.

Can you make matching upstands and splashbacks?

Upstands and splashbacks can be included in your worktop design, subject to the chosen material and project requirements. Include the dimensions in your enquiry and tell us whether you would like a short upstand, a splashback or full-height wall panels.

Can I put hot pans directly on quartz worktops?

Use a trivet or heat-resistant mat rather than placing hot pans directly on quartz. Although quartz is durable, excessive heat or sudden temperature changes can damage the surface. Follow the care instructions supplied for your particular stone.

How to Accessorise Your Kitchen on a Budget

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FAQ

Some questions & some answers