Photography: Martina Gemmola / Styling: Ruth Welsby
Nothing gives your kitchen an instant affordable makeover better than a brand-new coat of paint for your cupboards and cabinetry. Choosing a finish can be almost as challenging as choosing a colour and deciding whether to play it safe or inject your personality into this busy space can be daunting. Our advice? Go bold and bring your kitchen to life in the colours that make you happy. As the hub of your home and a space you will spend many hours cooking, working, entertaining and living, consider the style of kitchen cabinetry, the finishes you love the most and the practicality of your choices to ensure both the style and the surface lasts for years to come.
Types of paint for kitchen cabinets
Oil-based paints are the most highly recommended as a heavy-duty coating to withstand the rigours of daily use in the kitchen, forming a harder shell when dry.
Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints are also recommended for kitchens as they are hard-wearing but have low fumes and are less harmful to the environment. Check the instructions on the can as these paints may take longer to dry.
Specialist laminate paints are available for painting over laminated surfaces. This will require you to use a laminate primer first.
In terms of finish, choose a satin finish and steer clear of gloss, which will show up any knocks and marks that already exist, or as appear with daily use after painting.
Change your handles whilst you’re at it – a set of stylish new drawer pulls and knobs will inject a fresh look that’s on-trend and there are hundreds to choose from to suit any budget.
Renovating tip:
Top tips for painting your kitchen cupboards:
- Empty cupboards completely and clean all surfaces to be painted.
- Sand the surface first to give the paint something to grip
- Wipe down all surfaces following sanding to remove dust and dirt
- Use a primer or basecoat before the top coat of paint
- Lightly sand once again
- Apply at least two coats of paint with a roller to cover, allowing to dry between coats
- Check manufacturer’s instructions on side of tin for best results
If removing cupboards to repaint them, number each panel and keep in order as you work to ensure they rehang properly. Save hardware in a container or plastic bag as you remove them.
Renovating tip:
