The kitchen often takes centre stage in home life, so it makes sense that according to the experts, upgrading your kitchen is where your funds should be focused if you’re trying to get the best price for your house.
As Phil Spencer, presenter of TV show Location, Location, Location, says: ‘If you are only going to improve one room, make it the kitchen.’
Functional kitchen design and quality finishes in materials like Caesarstone, which is synonymous with style and excellence, are the major attractions for people in the market for a new house.
Here are the aspects you should focus on…
Counter intelligence
Carol Reynolds, Pam Golding Properties area principal for Durban’s coastal region, says your first port of call is to ensure that your kitchen countertops are beautiful. ‘This is probably the most critical component of your kitchen, so ideally you should invest in Caesarstone countertops.’
Get a handle on it
Replacing and updating handles and replacing or spraying old cabinet doors can make a big difference when it comes to updating your kitchen’s look and feel.
Lighten up
‘Painting the kitchen walls can help to add extra light, while adding clever, beautiful lighting can turn an ugly duckling into a swan,’ says Carol. ‘Include hanging lights above a breakfast nook or lighting in the bulkheads to add some flair.’
Space for everything
Beth Haynes, kitchen designer and Caesarstone Kitchen of the Year competition judge, says, ‘An efficient work surface plays a very important role in creating enough space for all functions, from storage to preparation, catering and even entertainment.’ She advises spending seven to 14 per cent of the value of the property on renovating the kitchen, ‘especially on your work surfaces, appliances and units’, explaining that cleverly designed countertops and cupboards keep the space free of any clutter, so it can also be enjoyed as a sculptural element within the home.
Create a look that will last
Buyers are looking for best value for money and a design scheme that won’t require a complete overhaul in the near future, explains Trevor King, marketing director at Caesarstone. ‘Updated countertops and splashbacks in Caesarstone create an exquisite, modern finish that works in virtually any design style – whether traditional or modern – and it comes with a lifetime warranty.’
Visit caesarstone.co.za for more design inspiration.