Another worktop question - laminate

Newbie2saving

Hi all,

Well I asked a lot of questions re quartz worktops (thanks for advice). I had made my mind up on Silestone, got a quote, and it was what I expected. However, I sat back and thought about fitting an expensive woktop on a kitchen I don't love (just bought a new house) - what is the point?!?!? I don't have enough money to replace the entire kitchen at the moment, and it is only a few yrs old. The laminate they have is too dark and runs from worktop to cupboard above and dominates room. Was thinking of replacing this with a lighter option and just upstands, then could brighten walls up also. I would have considered real wood, but it is an expensive option and needs maintenance, so thinking of a wood look and match it in with flooring (yet to purchase). Any suggestions thoughts??

This is what I was thinking of trying to replicate... http://www.axiomworktops.com/kitchen_images/finewood.htm

TIA....

phill99

Axiom is a good quality worktop.

What you describe is quite popular now and the all round splashbacks are not so in vogue now.

Just bear on mind when the splashbacks are removed, it may pull of some of the plaster skim as they are usually stuck on with 'gripfill' or similar so be prepared to do some making good. Also, you will need a splashback behind the cooker. Maybe glass or stainless steel?.

Also, if you are going to paint the walls, I would suggest a scrubbable paint such as Dulux Diamond Matt which will help when cleaning marks off the walls.

Newbie2saving

Phill99, thanks again, you've answered a few of my previous queries. I always wanted granite / quartz, but it doesn't stack up now so I'm going to save up over the yrs and in the meantime purchase laminate as a 'put me on'!

I am going to have plasterers in to cover over artex in a few rooms so may be an idea to get the splashbacks pulled off in advance and ask them to make good if necessary and pay them the extra.

There is already SS splashback behind cooker so I'm ok there.

Nothing is integrated so buying appliances and extending worktops so although not a huge job, will freshen up the place for 5yrs plus.

Re paint, will def use this, I'm using it on hall, stairs, landing, DS room. With a 2yr old I've been advised it is brilliant!

Thanks.