Thorough planning and research are crucial for ensuring a successful kitchen renovation.
The key to achieving the new kitchen you want on time, on budget, and as stress-free as possible is to plan your kitchen renovation in steps based on these 10 important considerations:
1. Budget
It’s important to set a realistic budget for your renovation that takes in account both the cost of materials and labour. Plan and calculate expenses beforehand to ensure you can afford the renovation.
2. Layout and design
Evaluate your kitchen’s layout and consider what changes you want to make. Think about the flow, functionality, and ergonomics of the space.
Look for design inspiration from magazines, online platforms, or consult with a professional architect or designer. There are some online kitchen planner tools to help you
get started, but most kitchen companies will draw up final designs for you.
3. Appliances and fixtures
Decide on the appliances and fixtures you want to include in your new kitchen. Consider factors like energy efficiency, functionality, and style. Make a list of essential appliances like refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, etc., as well as smaller fixtures like taps and lighting.
4. Cabinetry and storage
Determine if you want to replace or refinish existing cabinets or install new ones. Consider the storage space requirements, organisation features, and style. Research different materials, finishes, and designs that suit your taste and needs.
5. Countertops and surfaces
Choose the type of countertop material that fits your style and budget. Popular choices include granite, quartz, marble, or laminate. Consider durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal when making your decision.
6. Lighting
Plan the lighting scheme for your kitchen renovation. Decide between natural light, overhead lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. Consider the placement of lights to ensure proper illumination throughout the space.
7. Plumbing and electrical work
Determine if any plumbing or electrical changes are necessary. For example, if you want to move kitchen appliances or sinks, or if you need additional outlets or lighting fixtures. Consult with professionals to assess the feasibility and cost of such changes.
8. Safety and regulations
Check with local authorities about any regulations required for your renovation project. Your kitchen renovation may need to meet building regulations for electrical, gas, plumbing, ventilation works. Ensure you comply with building regs, safety standards, and other legal requirements.
9. Hiring professionals
Decide whether you’ll hire professionals like architects, interior designers, contractors, or kitchen renovation specialists. Research and obtain quotes from different professionals and review their portfolios and references to find the right expertise for your budget.
10. Timelines and alternative arrangements
Set realistic timelines for the completion of different phases of the renovation and make sure you factor in the disruption to daily life the renovation can cause.
There’s only so long you can keep eating takeaways, relying on friends and family, and going to the laundrette, so bear in mind how these alternative cooking and washing arrangements can add up in cost, time, and stress levels.
If your kitchen is going to be inaccessible for over a week, consider hiring a Portable Kitchen Pod to provide you with a temporary kitchen (delivered to your driveway) so that you have all the functional kitchen elements you need, conveniently to hand.
Hiring a Portable Kitchen Pod means you have everything you will otherwise miss from your kitchen, and even comes with a small table and lots of storage for your own kitchen items to have a temporary home.