I have decided to update my kitchen as my house project this year. When we moved in ten years ago, we did a complete refit, changing the layout to reflect the way we live. This time around I am looking for a cleaner, more contemporary look. Here are some things you should be thinking about for your next kitchen project.

Colour co-ordinate
If you’re happy with your current layout or are on a tight budget, you don’t have to rip out your old kitchen units. There are lots of companies specialising in replacement kitchen doors or you can repaint the old ones.

I’m a fan of the classic shaker kitchen design for kitchen cabinets – it really stands the test of time. My original shaker units are in good condition but are painted cream, which looks dated. It won’t be too expensive or difficult to repaint them.

Grey is still the go-to neutral colour and the good news is that colour is back in fashion for kitchens – think Farrow and Ball’s Hague Blue or Green Smoke.

Small changes – big difference
It’s amazing what a difference new taps and handles make. I am replacing my door and drawer handles with on-trend brass ones. It’s not in budget to change my existing granite worktops – if it was, I would be looking at soft grey or white quartz. I love the warmth of natural wood in a kitchen so I will be keeping my wooden benchtop, sanding it and re-oiling it with Danish oil.

New tiles for splashbacks can make a real statement. Fish scale shaped tiles in soft aqua tones create a contemporary look. My daughter has classic white “subway” tiles with dark grey grouting in her modern apartment kitchen – they didn’t cost too much and look great.

Storage solutions
Having the right storage is key. My new look kitchen needs to work efficiently with clear surfaces and cupboards where I can easily find things. If your kitchen surfaces are cluttered, and cupboards stuffed with mismatched crockery or packets of odd ingredients, it’s time to have a clear out and create some extra space.

Just back from a trip to Japan, I was reminded of the Japanese approach – only keep things that are useful or that you particularly love. If you haven’t used something for a long time, the chances are you don’t need it. Keep food items in clear containers so you can see them, and if you have room, install open shelving so you can display things beautifully.

A happy space
Your kitchen is the heart of your home, so it needs to be practical and reflect your personality. When I have completed my project hopefully mine will be just that. I will be treating myself to some new matching crockery in a nice bright colour, or a new kitchen clock like the one I saw in a department store in Japan – in the shape of a cat complete with swishing tail!