Insider Tips: Simple Styling Strategies For A Kitchen Refresh
If you're looking to breathe new life into your kitchen without committing to a full renovation, there are ways to make a meaningful impact through thoughtful styling. Here are some of our go-to strategies to elevate your space while keeping things simple and achievable.
Greenery
Introducing plants into the kitchen brings a sense of life. Whether placed on the bench, open shelving, or above cabinetry, greenery helps soften the space and create a natural connection to the outdoors. Even a single well-placed plant can bring instant warmth and personality to the room. Our favourite low-maintenance options are:
Pothos – perfect for trailing off shelves or cabinets.
ZZ Plant – hardy and great for lower light spots.
Herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary – practical and transforms a sunny windowsill.
String of Pearls – adds visual interest with its sculptural form.
Snake Plant – upright and architectural, ideal for benchtops or corners.
Artwork
Artwork in the kitchen adds an unexpected layer of personality. Whether it’s a piece from your current collection, a recent find from a favourite artist, or even a cute framed print of your child's artwork, it’s a great way to make a space feel warm, lived-in and uniquely yours. Don’t be afraid to lean into what you love. Art is a simple way to tell your story within the home.
Tapware
Tapware might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big impact, especially since the sink area often draws the eye as a focal point in the kitchen.
Swapping out dated or standard fittings for something with a bit more presence is an easy and effective way to elevate the entire space. Finishes like brushed brass, aged bronze, or polished chrome introduce contrast and can complement other elements.
Pull-out or pull-down styles are also a great option, combining style with added functionality for everyday use.
If you're aiming for a cohesive look, consider coordinating your tapware finish with cabinet handles or nearby lighting fixtures for a pulled-together feel. It’s a small upgrade that adds both style and practicality.
Handles
Think of handles as the finishing touches, like jewellery to an outfit. Swapping outdated hardware for more contemporary styles can have a surprisingly big impact, offering a quick, budget-friendly update for refinement and character. There are so many beautiful options available, it's easy to find something that suits your style.
Paint
Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint. Repainting cabinetry or updating wall colours can dramatically shift the tone of the space. If painting isn’t an option, replacing cabinet doors can offer a similarly striking transformation.
Lighting
Lighting plays a vital role in both the functionality and feel of the kitchen. Consider updating existing fixtures or adding a statement pendant over the island to create a focal point. For added practicality, consider LED strip lighting beneath overhead cabinets to brighten benchtops and highlight splashbacks.
Declutter
A clutter-free kitchen creates a sense of calm and allows the space to feel more open and inviting. The key is to keep things clean and organised, with only a few carefully selected items on display. Consider placing a single feature bowl to hold fresh fruit, tucking away cookbooks and other essentials, and adding a plant or piece of artwork to bring personality without overwhelming the space. Every item should have a purpose, and any decor should feel intentional and thoughtful.
Splashback
Refreshing the splashback is a simple way to introduce texture, colour or pattern. Choosing a material that complements your cabinetry and benchtops ties the look together and can instantly modernise the kitchen. We love:
Zellige tiles – perfect for a soft, earthy feel with their handmade charm.
Matt square or stacked subway tiles – ideal for a mid-century vibe, especially when paired with a bold colour choice.
Terrazzo tiles – offering a clean, stylish and sophisticated look.
Flooring
A flooring upgrade can dramatically transform the look and feel of your kitchen, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.
Beyond just style, the right flooring choice plays a key role in durability, ease of maintenance, and comfort underfoot. Timber or engineered hardwood bring warmth and timeless appeal, while tiles ( from sleek porcelain to peppy terrazzo) offer practicality and design versatility.
When selecting flooring, it’s essential to consider factors such as the level of foot traffic, your overall design vision, and the practicality of the material in a kitchen setting. A thoughtful flooring update can tie the room together, elevating the space with lasting impact.
Benchtops
If you're ready to invest a little more, upgrading your benchtops can truly transform the space. A well-chosen surface not only elevates the look but also brings the entire kitchen into a more current, cohesive aesthetic.
At Newton Kay, we offer a range of services to suit your budget. Even if you know you want to make some of these changes, but don’t know where to start, reach out for a free consultation so we can help you along the way'.
