Redoing a new kitchen requires some preparation, but once you get going it can be a really creative and fun process.

In order to help you, here are nine things you need to think about before beginning any building work…

 

1. What is your total budget? 

Be realistic about what you can afford, and don’t forget to account for everything you need: the cost of appliances, the cost of construction, and other costs such as tiles and building regulation applications.

 

2. What do you need now, and in the future?

Will you be cooking every day? What types of meals will you prepare most often? Who will be doing the cooking? Do you need a lot of bench space? Will you be entertaining often?

Answers to these will affect how you structure the kitchen and storage.

 

3. Do you want a bespoke kitchen or a branded one?

The latter is the likes of IKEA or similar. Speak with a builder who can install both a bespoke and a branded one (such as ourselves!) and get their advice on what they would recommend.

 

4. What layout could you have?

Is an open kitchen a good option for you? Could you have a breakfast bar? How can you maximise the space?

 

5. What countertop are you after?

Laminate, hardwood, granite, marble… Don’t try and cut costs on this area. It’s the main thing people will see, and a bad countertop can undergo all the hard work of your kitchen renovation.

It’s also worth thinking about the type of finish you want e.g. waterfall versus overhanging.

 

6. What are the key appliances you simply must have?

The fridge, and where you position it, is a key decision. But it’s worth thinking about all the other appliances you want space for on your countertop, as well as the safety devices you could install (e.g. an electric induction hob is safer if children are about).

 

7. What type of floor do you want?

Tiles or flooring? Do you want underfloor heating? This heating will need to be installed before you begin work.

 

8. How much light do you want and need?

If you’re doing lots of cooking then spotlights are good for lighting your preparation areas. You can then look at hanging or pendant lighting in other areas. Whatever you decide to go for, you need to plan the position of lights before laying the kitchen.

 

9. How much storage do you need?

Storage options are key. Corner units with pull out features, hidden drawers, self-closing mechanisms… They can all ensure you make the most out of your new kitchen.

 

All sound a bit stressful? Get in touch with us at F&M Renovations. We can take you through the whole process, from idea to construction, to bring your kitchen vision to life.