Most Brits Would Fit A New Kitchen If They Won The Lottery

February 5, 2024

A new survey on behalf of the People’s Postcode Lottery has found that the majority of Brits consider the kitchen to be top of the home renovations list. If the lucky finger of fate should point their way, one in five (21 per cent) of Brits would fit a new kitchen to make the most of their homes. 

Meanwhile, 19 per cent would redecorate, 17 per cent would fit new flooring or carpets, 16 per  cent would fit a new bathroom, and a further 16 per cent would make garden improvements. A kitchen renovation is one of the most costly home improvement projects, perhaps explaining why a lottery win would prompt many people to make this change. 

Commenting on the results, interior designer Sophie Clemson said: “Choosing a new kitchen can be a costly project therefore you want to get it right and avoid any costly mistakes, as it is likely you won’t be changing it for years to come. With that being said, you may want to opt for a timeless look that will last.”

She added: “Depending on the style of the house, shaker-style kitchens can be a great option. They are traditional but can have a modern twist with the cabinet colours, worktops and hardware. Shaker-style kitchens can also be repainted further down the line and therefore will last for many years.”

Shaker kitchens are a classic and timeless design choice, with roots in the 18th century, when a religious group from north west England set sail for the New World. When they settled in America, the Shakers took with them expertise in carpentry and craftsmanship, and soon developed a reputation as producers of quality artisan furniture. 

The shaker kitchen is characterised by clean symmetrical lines with simple panelled cabinetry. It’s a no-fuss style that looks equally good in a country cottage or a city apartment. The focus is on a well-laid out and highly functional space with ingenious storage solutions that will stand the test of time. 

These are obviously very desirable qualities in such a cost-intensive project as a kitchen renovation. The pared-back style with no excessive decorative detailing will not go out of date quickly, and is easy to style with individual touches through your choice of colours and accessories. 

Shaker kitchens traditionally have muted colours such as creams, greys, and other neutrals, although they can be given a modern twist with pastel colours or even stronger shades of blue, green, or red. In fact, almost any colour scheme can be made to work in a shaker kitchen due to the overall simplicity of the design. 

Another element of freedom in the traditional shaker kitchen is the choice of tiles. Overly ornate tiles might detract from the overall look of the kitchen, but simple subway tiles laid out in a herringbone pattern can provide a twist without being too obtrusive. Alternatively, tiles that resemble natural wood or stone are a great choice. 

Meanwhile, 16 per cent of lucky lottery winners said they would fit a new bathroom. This is another costly renovation that is also disruptive and easy to get wrong without professional help. 

Ms Clemson says on the topic of bathroom renovations: “Similar to choosing a new kitchen, you probably want your bathroom to last for many years therefore choose the style carefully.”

Maybe somewhat controversially, she adds: “We recommend not tiling every wall in the bathroom as it can look like a wet room and quite dated. Mixing it up with tiles and paint will create a modern look. Black and brass hardware is also very popular right now whilst chrome appears to have decreased in popularity.”

The choice as to whether to partially or fully tile your bathroom can be a tricky one. It is not necessarily the case that a fully tiled bathroom will look dated; indeed if the tiles are chosen well it can look very sleek and contemporary. 

A partially tiled bathroom is more prone to damp and mould, because paint or wallpaper is less moisture resistant than tiles. Once water damage sets in, it can be hard to remove and therefore it may be necessary to redecorate. 

If you are looking for kitchen tiles in Hertfordshire, please get in touch today.