What would you do in this kitchen? (pic attached)

[blacktilesbegone]

We inherited this kitchen when we moved a couple of years ago. It's about 12 years old and in great nick so I'd feel bad ripping it out, plus we could really use the money elsewhere!

As username suggests I hate the black tiles with a passion and neither am I keen on the modern gloss doors, but I suspect new tiles might distract from this, as well as maybe new handles? We are putting down an oak floor.

Usual style is quite farmhouse - I like lots of white paired with warm, natural textures. Have been thinking of a light brick tile (travertine perhaps) but not white as I think that would clash with the cabinets. I'm a bit stuck about the tops of the cabinets and think maybe I should put baskets or crates up there along with some greenery?

I actually quite like it!

I have a really similar kitchen that is 8 years old with no tiles, a stainless steel splash back behind the hob and a granite work top it looks so much more modern than your current one.

If my kitchen was that tidy I'd be so happy I wouldn't care about the tiles!

Change the tiles. Leave the handles until you have done that. Fixing the damage to the doors would be a pain in the arse. Perhaps you could find some sort of panel to go in front of the tile?

It looks like three kitchens bin one. It just doesn't "go"

@CrimbleCrumble1

I have a really similar kitchen that is 8 years old with no tiles, a stainless steel splash back behind the hob and a granite work top it looks so much more modern than your current one.

I think it’s becayse that’s a much much older kitchen and someone has replaced the doors and worktop, which explains the missing trim and the clashing wooden inserts.

Oh I see, that makes sense.

If you want to redo the doors DIY kitchens are good value and will send out decent size samples. But agree that the tiles will make the biggest difference

I think my style is similar to yours. I’d change the handles, as the easiest and cheapest thing and see how that looks. If you measure the screw hole distance and then google the shape and pewter or brass and antique you should go down a little trail.

I quite like the wooden bits.

I’d probably paint the tiles a pastel colour and IKEA do some huge chopping, the same colour the cupboard trim. I’d get a few of these for either side of the cooker .. would warm it up and feel more cottage/country type look. Pastel blind to match

@Chestofdraws love those handles you suggested - not seen slimline ones before.

We have ones like in the photo and the ends of the horizontal ones get stuck in my dressing gown pockets - very annoying (I chose them as well )

The black tiles are the main problem - you can tile on tile, or stick-on tiles, or paint them - you do not have to strip them all out. I think if you make them lighter/warmer it will lift the whole kitchen.

This colour is really nice

I'd be very wary of a composite sink.
Stains very quickly and needs a lot of cleaning.
I'm actually thinking of going back to stainless steel, if I'm honest.

I have the same kitchen units, liking the ideas on here! I’m currently painting the walls in my kitchen but new handles is a good idea.

Agree with @ButtockUp - I’m forever bleaching my white composite sink. Wish I’d gone with stainless steel.

It's really not that bad.

Changing the tiles would really give it a new lease of life.

Little greene have just done an email out with some lovely tile paints on.