Is it possible to just change a kitchen work surface?

[thetigerwhocametoteax]

Just had an offer accepted on a house and we will be on a very tight budget for renovating. The kitchen is pretty horrid but can't afford a new one so hoping to give the old one a tarting up. The wooden cabinets I think will look loads better re-painted and with new handles but not sure what we can do about the work tops. At the moment they are a very dark laminate that makes the room look really dark and is chipped and tired looking. Is it possible to have a new work surface fitted or is it more hassle than worth and best waiting til we can afford a new kitchen? Anyone any experience? Thanks!

I've done exactly what you are thinking of - painted the cupboards, changed the handles and just replaced the worktop. It didnt cost much at all and looked pretty good afterwards. Also put a new sink/taps in which made a big difference. Best of luck

I've done it too

Yeah go for it, but it might end up taking your tiles off if it was tiled after the worktop went in so check that first.
Dont go for real wood (slaps self in head) they are a giant pain to look after!

Ring up a few local builders and ask if they know of anywhere that does off cuts. You don't ask, you don't get!

yes

but for best results ask around for a good joiner (not a general builder)

my worktop is actually fitted but not screwed down which will make it easier if I want to change it again.

I'm thinking of doing this in my new house - the cupboards are fine but the worktops are bloody vile and as soon as I can afford it, they are being changed! Glad I came across this as I was wondering whether the worktops could just be changed so thanks OP :)

Here too, but also ended up with new tiles. Very good job by a good job by a good joinery firm

Didn't do it in end - just repainted cupboards and changed handles, but asked builder about it and he said it was a piece of piss to do.

Thanks all! Brilliant - good to know its easily possible. Think we will also go for a new sink / taps if we can afford it follyfoot! There are no tiles so hopefully that isn't an issue. We have a wooden work top now and I agree purplehonesty that it is hard to keep it looking nice - will probably go for wood effect laminate as should be cheaper and easier to look after?