If the better weather has put you in the mood for a home renovation, you are not alone. According to a recent survey by Houzz, 53 per cent of homeowners believe that now is a good time for an upgrade. Whether you are looking to put your house up for sale or you just want to improve it, the kitchen is the best room to start with. There are various improvements you can make that dont have to cost the earth. You can brighten up your kitchen by adding splashes of colour and artwork. Also take a look at your windows. High-efficiency replacement windows and patio doors save significant amounts on fuel bills and often retain most of their value when the property is sold, according to industry statistics. Stainless steel continues to be a popular finish for kitchen appliances, sinks and fixtures. Not only do they look good, stainless steel cleans easily and resists wear and tear. This is especially true for kitchen sinks, which receive the brunt of abuse. Try going bold with fixtures. There are a number of stylish yet practical taps on the market that make a real statement, including instant boiling water taps for busy householders who are looking to cut down on their electricity bills. Check out the Franke Minerva Instant Boiling Water Tap. Kitchen storage must be practical but can still be stylish. After determining what you dont like about your current cabinetry - consider location, capacity, flexibility, material and finish - find out what options you have. If you dont want to invest too much, look at simply changing the doors on cupboards and drawers to achieve a fresh, new look. Flooring can also be freshened for an exciting new look. Natural stone and ceramic tiles are high-end products that speak taste and elegance. When opting for these surfaces, add mats for areas where youll be standing for long periods of time. If you are on a budget, linoleum and vinyl are more economical. They have the added advantage of being easy to clean.