6 brilliant ideas to brighten up and improve your kitchen
Kitchens, often referred to as the heart of the home, serve more than just a functional purpose. They are a place of gathering, a place of connection, and most importantly, a space that tells a lot about the people living in the home. When designed with care and creativity, a kitchen can truly transform the entire atmosphere of a home. Professional kitchen designers share brilliant and innovative ideas to brighten up any kitchen space, irrespective of its size or layout, converting it into a welcoming and enjoyable space. Get ready to be inspired and make your kitchen not just practical but stylish and vibrant.

1. Work on Your Lighting
Natural light can dramatically transform a kitchen, making it look brighter and more spacious. Consider enlarging existing windows or adding a skylight to let in more sunlight. If structural changes are not an option, enhance the artificial lighting. Use a layered lighting approach: ambient lighting for overall illumination, task lighting for specific work areas, and accent lighting to highlight design elements.
The key is to strike a fine balance between natural and artificial lighting that allows the kitchen to be well-lit throughout the day. This improves visibility, sets the mood right, and makes cooking a much more pleasant experience. If you have a small kitchen, try installing lights under cabinets or shelves to create an illusion of height and depth.
2. Choose the right renovation contractor
Choosing the right renovation contractor can make or break your kitchen remodelling project. It’s crucial to do thorough research, check reviews and ratings, and ask for references before making your decision. Ensure that they understand your vision, respect your budget, and have a proven track record in kitchen renovations. Having a reliable and experienced contractor like Reborn Renovations kitchen renovations in Calgary can significantly reduce stress and ensure a smooth and successful renovation. Any contractors in your locality should be searched carefully. You want to know that your kitchen is in the right hands and that the result will be everything you imagined.

3. Open shelving and storage solutions
Open shelving can give your kitchen a more airy, spacious feel while allowing you to display your favourite dishes and kitchenware. However, it’s essential to keep the shelves organised to prevent a cluttered look. For additional storage, consider using the vertical space by mounting wall racks for pots and pans or adding a ceiling-mounted pot rack. You can also manage your counter clutter more effectively by incorporating Hubble pop-up outlets, allowing you to keep electrical devices handy while maintaining a streamlined look.
Many innovative storage solutions are available nowadays, such as pull-out pantry shelves and corner cabinets with rotating shelves. These can help maximise the available space and make your kitchen more functional and organised.
4. Statement fixtures
Replacing outdated fixtures in your kitchen can instantly give it a modern and chic look. Consider upgrading to sleek faucets, pendant lights, or chandeliers that make a statement and add a touch of personality to your kitchen. These fixtures are not just functional but can also be used as design elements to tie the overall look of your kitchen together. Many options are available on the market, so do your research and choose fixtures that fit your style and budget.
5. Backsplash refresh
A backsplash can be an excellent opportunity to add colour, texture, or pattern to your kitchen. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to refresh your kitchen and make it stand out. You can choose from various materials, such as subway tiles, mosaic tiles, or even wallpaper. Just make sure to select something that complements the overall style of your kitchen.
For instance, a bold and colourful backsplash can add an exciting contrast to an otherwise neutral kitchen. Alternatively, a simple white subway tile backsplash can provide a clean and classic look. The key is to choose something that reflects your style and enhances your kitchen’s overall design.
6. Play with Colours
Adding a pop of colour is always a great idea when it comes to brightening up any space. This can be achieved through a brightly painted accent wall, colourful kitchen appliances, or even vibrant dishware. You can also try incorporating colour through small details like curtains, rugs, or decorative items.
However, it’s essential to maintain a balance and not go overboard with colours. Stick to a cohesive colour scheme that ties the whole kitchen together and creates a harmonious look. If the area is small, opt for light and airy colours to make it appear more spacious. On the other hand, if you have a larger kitchen space, don’t be afraid to experiment with bold and vibrant colours.
Embracing these brilliant and creative ideas is a surefire way to transform your kitchen into the stylish and vibrant heart of your home. Whether it’s letting in more natural light, choosing the right contractor for your renovation, embracing open shelving, updating fixtures, refreshing your backsplash, or playing with colours, every change, big or small, contributes to creating a welcoming, functional, and uniquely yours kitchen space.
Remember, designing a kitchen is not merely about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that echoes your personality, fosters connections, and truly makes a house feel like a home. So start planning your kitchen makeover today and watch how these improvements brighten your kitchen and, ultimately, your home.

![[AD] We’re a cricket-mad family, so we’re buzzing that @thehundred is back this August! 🏏🔥
To get ready, M tried out the official FREE Activity Pack — and it’s brilliant! 🙌
Packed with fun games, creative challenges and sporty tasks, it’s perfect for getting kids hyped whether you’re at home or on the go.
👉Download yours now (link in bio)
@londonspirit @ovalinvincibles #EveryMomentCounts #TheHundred
#EnglandCricket #CricketFamily #TheHundredCricket #LondonBloggers #Cricket #CricketIsLife #kidsfun](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/505472555_18531279601016840_7092520074819907569_n-180x320.jpg)



![[AD - Press visit]
We enjoyed the glorious sunshine this weekend with a trip to Brighton. We went on the @brightoni360official which is right by the sea front.
The i360 pod take a slow journey up, allowing you to take in views across Brighton and the South Downs 450ft above ground. There’s a bar inside with drinks and snacks available to purchase and the experience lasts 25 minutes.
Afterwards, we headed to the open air roller rink for a roller skating session!
The roller rink is:
⭐ Suitable for over 5s
⭐ £6.50 if you have your own skates or £9.50 if you need to hire them
⭐ 45 minutes per session
Full details to visit the i360 + skating
📍 Brighton i360, Lower Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2LN
🚗 Parking nearby (we parked in the Regency Square Car park)
🎟️ Prices start from £25.40 for an adult and £16.90 for a child
🕐 Opening hours are currently Sun-Fri 10.30am-18.30pm and until 19.30pm on Saturdays
☕️ Bar inside the i360, cafe and gift shop
Book tickets here:
https://tickets.brightoni360.co.uk/tickets/?_ga=2.195305772.1869001490.1689671753-1757164059.1689671753/#events?eventid=157](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/417980235_313576471048632_3682382982231216432_n.jpg)

![[AD] ***Summer of fun at Barracudas Activity Camps!****
There is plenty for kids to do at @barracudas_activity_day_camps
From Tennis, Archery, Swimming, Motor Sports and more you can be sure that there will be something for kids aged 4.5-14. ⚽🏈🥅🎾🏓🏎️🏹🏊♂️🏉
You can book on a day by day basis - so it can fit in with any other days out/activities you have planned and there are early drop off and late pickup options available. Barracudas are also Ofsted registered so you can use your Childcare Vouchers too.
⭐⭐⭐Get £20 off a week or £4 off a day using my discount code: MARIA20⭐⭐⭐
#BarracudasActivityDayCamp #BarracudasActivityCamp #BarracudaAmbassadors #SummerHolidays #SchoolHolidays #Summer2023 #SummerCamp #DayCare #Camp #KidsCamp #surreymummy #surreymums #SummerOfFun #ActivityCamps #HolidayCamps #Childcare #SchoolHolidays #schoolholidaycamps](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/353583570_625625966167953_545896259645102575_n.jpg)



![[AD] We have some super exciting news...we have been chosen to be Laser Quest Ambassadors, and the boys are over the moon!
We are really lucky that our local Laser Quest (@laserquestkingston) is just around the corner from us. It means we can pop in of a weekend or anytime during the school holidays, and with summer just around the corner, I know Laser Quest will be one of our go-to places for some family fun.
As well as games of Laser Quest, there are also VR experiences and arcade amusements too. To find out a bit more about how Laser Quest works, you can read my blog post: https://www.suburban-mum.com/laser-quest-kingston/ (clickable link in bio)
Don't forget to keep an eye out for our Laser Quest posts - I'm going to be giving away two family passes to use at Laserquest Kingston!
If you can't wait and want to head down to Laser Quest to try it out, use the code SUMMER30 for 30% off your booking. The code is valid from now until the end of August 2023 and can be used on Laser Quest games and birthday party bookings.
#LaserquestAmbassador #Laserquest #LaserquestKingston #ActivitiesForKids #FamilyFun #DaysOutWithKids #Lasertag #LaserquestVR #Kingston #ThingsToDoInKingston #SurreyFamilyDaysOut #ThingsToDoWithKids #RainyDayFun #SurreyMummy #SurreyLife #LifeWithKids #LifeWithBoys #familyfunday](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/353230107_797358078406942_2405522556733455165_n.jpg)

![[AD] The sun has finally made an appearance and the boys have been making the most of it by spending it
in the garden.
They’re go-to is always football and they’ve been trying to improve their aim and accuracy with the new Messi Foldable Footlball goal from the #MessiTrainingSystem range.
I love the fact the goal is foldable, making it easy to store away when not in use. It is also lightweight so you can effortlessly pack it up and take it to the park or to a friend’s house.
The Messi Foldable Football Goal retails at £36 and can be purchased from @argos
You can read my full review here: https://www.suburban-mum.com/messi-foldable-football-goal/
#TrainLikeMessi #FoldableFootballGoal #FootballSkills #OutdoorFun #LionelMessi #LeoMessi #FootballAtHome #OutdoorKids #JustGetOutside #OutdoorsAndFree #ScreenFreeKids #WhateverTheWeatherKids @flair_gp](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/341194882_615024710178056_41977149395989448_n.jpg)

![[AD] We are absolutely thrilled to announce that we are Barracuda Ambassadors again this year.
With Easter just around the corner, the boys were sent the @barracudas_activity_day_camps new camp kit in preparation for the school holidays.
There’s a wide range of activities for kids aged 4.5 - 14 including Tennis, Archery, Basketball, Arts & Crafts and more.
If you like the sound of Barracudas, find out more over on their website. You can also save £20 a week or £4 a day, using my discount code: MARIA20](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/336812306_765234558514317_685553691647241974_n.jpg)


![[AD - Gifted]
Last weekend we were invited to try out @tsarettaspice’s new Bottomless Brunch menu and I can tell you it was thumbs up all round!
There’s a good choice tapas on offer from Punjabi fish fingers, Indo Chinese Chicken to Spiced Lamb Scotch Eggs and Manchurian Cauliflower (which was amazing!)
If you’re local to Twickenham and fancy giving them a try here’s are the details.
Tsaretta Spice Bottomless Brunch
⭐️£37.50 per head for bottomless Prosecco or cocktail of the day
⭐️£55 per head for bottomless Champagne
⭐️ Food included: 4 tapas selections and dessert or 2 tapas selections, a pav or naanwich and dessert
⭐️ Non-alcohol brunch is also available
Tsaretta Spice
55 Church Street
Twickenham
TW1 3NR
You can also read our full review over on the blog (link in bio)](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/334565436_5960402314015030_663031098700829518_n.jpg)
![[AD] What does family look like for you?
I am fortunate to be surrounded by strong, powerful women in the form of my mum, sister and mother-in-law (along with many others). With Mother’s Day just around the corner, @BootsUK want to celebrate all the different mums and mother figures we are lucky enough to have in our lives. They have a huge range of Mother’s Day gifts to choose from so we can show them how much they mean to us. (swipe to take a look at some of my choices)
If you want to express love and appreciation for the mother figure(s) in your life, head to Boots.com to find the ideal gift. They have a whole host of gifts, so you can be sure to find something to suit all tastes. Celebrate the #LoveForAllMums this Mother’s Day with Boots.
](https://suburban-mum.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/334276459_136658625736352_6403224988403337253_n.jpg)



