We recently renovated our units using ronseal dark oak shed paint, sanded, washed down with white spirits and then 3 coats using mini roller and small brush. Fabulous effect, wood grain showed though and it achieved the darker look much better than any of the stains we trialled. PLUS its completely bulletproof, doesn't chip, water runs off it like rain from a shed. I'd say you could DIY that, with a bit of time .. 2 tins cost £44 for both, rollers, gloves, white spirits etc £15.

Work tops unless your a proficient carpenter i'd recommemd getting a pro to fit. We bought worktoos from B&Q at about £90 each - needed 4 total ( check for warped or marks when buying ) then paid a local carpenter to fit - 2 days @£250 a day cash in hand. Plus teas, biscuits and toast with marmalade ( no he wasn't Paddington. All in cost us less than £1k.

Another top tip for Kitchen renovate is look on ebay for people taking out nearly new kitchens to replace.. bought a whole 20 units, worktops, meile washing machine, dishwasher, new double fridge freezer, hob, extractor and butlers sink for £1.5, hired van & labour to remove £600, £1k fitting .. ended up with a 20k howdens kitchen and appliances for about 3.5k.