Are you planning a new kitchen? Refreshing your old kitchen can transform how you feel about your home and even add value to your property. Before you embark on redesigning your kitchen, read these essential tips.
Commonly thought of as the heart of the home, a show-stopping kitchen not only enhances your property’s value but also creates a space for real family time. Whether it’s gathering for breakfast or catching up over dinner, a well-designed kitchen can become the dream setting for your family’s daily routines.
However, installing a new kitchen isn’t always smooth sailing. It can be a considerable task, leading to significant upheaval and taking weeks to complete. Without a utility room, you might find yourself washing dishes in the bath. You may also be without a connected oven for a while, requiring alternative cooking arrangements or relying on takeaways until the kitchen is finished. And that’s just the logistical side of the project.
Before your contractors lift a screwdriver, you’ll need to design the space and choose tiles, worktops, and flooring. While some people love interior design, not everyone has that creative flair, and decision fatigue can set in quickly. Before you know it, you’re overwhelmed with options.
So, where should you start? Should you visit a kitchen showroom, download brochures online, or contact a contractor? Follow these tips to manage your project and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
The Available Space
First, consider the extent of your project. Will you be replacing your old kitchen with a new one in the same space, or are you looking to create a larger room? Perhaps you’re considering an extension or combining two rooms into one. If so, your first step will be consulting an architect to explore planning permission or permitted development regulations.
Budget
Once you’ve decided on the available space, you must consider your budget. There’s no limit to how expensive a kitchen can get, so it’s essential to set a cap on the development to prevent costs from spiralling out of control. Establish a budget based on your savings or borrowing capacity.
Design
Think about what you want from the new kitchen. Are you looking for a large family area, an entertaining space, or a cosy spot to enjoy your morning coffee? Your plans for the space will guide the design and layout of the room and the units.
Styling
Consider the finish you hope to achieve. Do you want a vibrant, colourful room or soft, muted tones? Do you prefer an ultra-modern look or a country cottage vibe? Deciding on the theme now will help you make coherent choices for units, worktops, and tiling.
Position of Appliances
This might seem obvious, but if you’re planning to rearrange the kitchen and appliances, you need to consider where the services are in the property. Relocating plumbing for your dishwasher could become cost-prohibitive. The oven’s position will influence where you prepare food, and the placement of the fridge and storage will also play a crucial role.
Think About Flow
Imagine yourself preparing dinner in the planned kitchen. Keep pots and pans within arm’s reach, food storage close to the oven, and knives and utensils near your prep area, so you’re not running around the space in all directions. Proper flow can make your kitchen more efficient and enjoyable to use.
Your home and interior reflect your personality, and the kitchen is one of the most significant rooms in the house. Because of this, the kitchen can significantly impact your home’s value, potentially adding thousands if it’s really special.
Follow these tips if you’re planning to remodel your kitchen. And if you’ve just finished refurbishing, why not arrange a valuation of your property? You might be pleasantly surprised by how much value your hard work has added. If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner, and we will set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.
