Kellie Richardson: Simple kitchen upgrades that will increase the sale value by up to $50k
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 09 Oct 2025
A designer kitchen doesn't have to come with a designer price tag. According to celebrity interior designer Kellie Richardson, founder and CEO of Kurved by Design, small, thoughtful changes can transform the heart of your home without the cost and disruption of a full renovation.
"Kitchens are where families gather and memories are made. You don't need to spend tens of thousands to achieve a beautiful, functional space, you just need to know the tricks," Richardson said.
"Simple changes can not only create a luxurious designer look, they can enhance the appeal of your kitchen and as a result, increase the sale value of your home."
Richardson is the nation's leading interior designer, feng shui expert and the global ambassador for Barelli Bathrooms. In addition to her interior design services and property staging business, her online interior design academy, the Kurved by Design Interior Design Academy, attracts students from all over the country and many parts of the world eager to learn about interior design so they can apply their learnings at home or as an interior design professional.
Richardson shares her top hacks to help people improve the look and function of their kitchen.
"When it comes to selling your property, the kitchen is one of the first things potential buyers look at when inspecting a home. If the kitchen gives off a good vibe, it can add significant value to the property," Richardson said.
"A fresh, modern-looking kitchen can lift the perceived value of a home by up to $50,000 without major renovation work."
Spray paint your countertops
"Counter tops and cupboards are the biggest elements in a kitchen and they can show their age quickly. The good news is that old laminate or dated benchtops can be refreshed in a weekend with specialty countertop spray paints. It's affordable, quick and instantly gives a modern look," Richardson said.
"These paint products are available at the hardware store and are easy to use and apply. YouTube is full of wonderful DIY content so you can learn the basics easily online.
"An updated freshly painted kitchen bench can completely change the look of a kitchen for less than a few hundred dollars. It can modernise the space making it look brand new."
Spray paint your fridge
Appliances can dominate a kitchen's aesthetic. Instead of replacing a fridge, spray painting it in a sleek black, white or even stainless-steel finish can make it feel brand new.
"There are a number of spray can products available that cost less than $100. Depending on the style of your kitchen, you can create an impressive finish for not a lot of money," Richardson added.
Change cupboard doors or paint them a different colour
Cupboards can be the biggest visual element in your kitchen. Many cupboard doors are a standard size which means you can replace them with doors from the hardware store.
"Replacing the cupboard doors can completely change up the look and feel of a kitchen and there are so many styles and option available. If you decide to paint them instead, this is also a cost effective way to transform their colour and finish without replacing a single door," Richardson said.
Experiment with peel-and-stick wallpaper and wall tiles
"Peel-and-stick wallpaper and wall tiles are a budget-friendly game changer. You can use them on splashbacks, feature walls or even the side of a kitchen island to add pattern and interest," Richardson said.
"They are easy to install, don't require a power tool and are very affordable to buy. Many retailers sell them and offer a broad range of cost effective options."
Upgrade your lighting
"Statement pendant lights or under-cabinet strip lighting can make a huge impact. Lighting not only brightens a space but also gives it a designer finish," Richardson said.
"When it comes to lighting, DIY strip lighting can be fairly easy to install yourself. Pendant lights may require an electrician. Thanks to retail competition, there are plenty of great lights available online and in discount stores that don't cost a lot but look expensive.
"Lighting can transform a space creating drama and lifting the mood of the home."
Refresh your hardware
"Changing handles and knobs is one of the simplest ways to elevate your cupboards and drawers. Go for brushed brass, matte black or minimalist chrome for a modern touch," Richardson said.
"Again, these are changes you can make yourself without needing a power tool."
Style your benchtops
"Styling is essential in the kitchen and benchtops can hold a lot of items as a display counter as well. Ideally, declutter and style them like a magazine spread with fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit or a chic coffee machine. This can set the tone for the entire room," Richardson said.
"I like to showcase feature items like a coffee machine and unique bowls as these lift the area and draw the eye to the benchtops."
Add a rug or runner
"A patterned rug or runner in the kitchen can soften the space, add warmth and can even disguise worn floors," Richardson said.
Bring in greenery
"Indoor kitchen gardens are always impressive when done well. Herbs in decorative pots or indoor plants can bring life and freshness to your kitchen," Richardson said.
Swap out stools and chairs
"Replacing dated seating with modern stools or chairs adds a designer edge without major spend. These items can be purchased from a second hand marketplace or from your local op shop," Richardson said.
Richardson said these simple hacks can be done in a weekend and will completely change how your kitchen feels. It's about working smart, not spending big. There may be some elbow grease involved but the outcome will lift the look, feel and sale value of your home.
About Kellie Richardson
Kellie Richardson is one of Australia's most respected interior designers and the founder of Kurved by Design. Known for her timeless aesthetic, media presence and accessible approach to style, Kellie has transformed countless homes with her signature blend of sophistication and functionality. A sought- after commentator on design trends, home styling and Feng Shui, she is also a breakfast radio host and regular guest on national media. Through her work, Kellie empowers Australians to create beautiful, liveable spaces that reflect their values and lifestyle.