I just wanted to share my experience because I am on a non existent budget too. I saw a picture of a bench I loved, contacted the carpenter, and he has just made me a birch ply kitchen for a total of 1600 euros, including fitting. (600 labour, 400 fitting, 600 for materials). He has kept his price low for me because he likes the project. I am guaranteed to use him now to build wardrobes, boxes, and shelving solutions as and when I have budget. Sometimes talking to individuals who work for themselves/do it on the side can result in very cost-effective solutions! I am paying 300 euros for brushed stainless steel countertops, and got a belfast sink for 100 euro including the mixer tap. Will send u a pic when it's done but my almost dream kitchen has been possible for like 2000 euros (£1800?) I wouldn't shy away from painting the units yourself as there are many tutorials online to show you how, but it is labour-intensive and eggshell paint on cabinets = drips!! You could always just get white or raw cabinets for now, and paint later when you have some cash? Make sure you use quality brushes if you go this route. Nothing more annoying than little hairs sticking in your lovely paint :-/

Hi there. Completely agree with everyone, you should paint the cupboards. I really like the colours in this picture as I think that the slightly 'greyer' off white cupboards would tie in well with your beautiful grey tiles. You wouldn't necessarily have to go so light on your worktop as in this picture. The laminate you showed in your third picture is really nice, where is it from? Currently doing my kitchen and trying to find a laminate that I like!

Hi All, I am hoping someone can help me!!!!!!! I recently painted my kitchen units in F&b Cornforth White. I am looking for a colour to compliment on the walls. I don't have a main wall as such i'm painting as going to feature brick effect paper...I have 2 large double sliding doors that open into the sitting room. I have testers of Worsted, but thinking it could be very dark. (the splashback will be coming down) i'm undecided on to go dark or light - plus painter coming tomorrow!!!! Kitchen units F&b Cornforth White doors into sitting room the left is Worsted and right is winter truffle (dulux I think)!

If you've got the time and the inclination (and budgets are tight) I reckon it's worth giving the paint a go to see how it looks. Lots of the kitchens we're doing for clients now are ones with painted finishes and although (as mentioned above) this isn't the most classic style/a bit old fashioned it will look completely different painted. New handles... save up for the kitchen you really want!