This indispensable reference provides expert guidance on researching, planning, purchasing, and installing the heart of your home.
When it comes to home renovations, choosing a new kitchen is one of the most exciting jobs. It’s also the most costly, stressful, and time-consuming option. How to plan a kitchen needs a lot of consideration, from choosing the proper style to selecting a designer and deciding on the layout. Regardless matter how tempted you are to rush into a showroom and pick your design, it is critical that you take your time.
Breaking the planning process into manageable steps will make the process of finding the ideal kitchen idea a little easier. Think of it as a journey, and give each step all the time and consideration it needs.
From inspiration to installation, follow these simple steps for planning a kitchen.HOW TO PLAN A KITCHEN: STEP-BY-STEP
The second question to consider is how the kitchen will be used. It may seem self-evident, but consider who will be using the kitchen the most, what types of foods they will prepare, how often you will host, and whether you will need separate rooms for dining and laundry. You’re on your way once you have a decent sense of what you need and what you want.
Think about whether the existing space and layout works or if it would benefit from a kitchen extension. The most common building work involves knocking down a wall between kitchen and dining room – creating a more open-plan feel if you have the chance. ‘Consider things that your current kitchen is restricting you from doing and try to build in features that enhance your experience’ advises Paul Gibbs, Kitchens Buying Manager, B&Q.
CALCULATE A BUDGET
Set a budget with an upper limit that you know you won’t go over before you start looking for the finest granite worktops and the most cutting-edge electrical gadgets. Always be prepared for the unexpected! You never know what might be beneath the old kitchen once it’s been torn out, and there could be pricey issues to repair before you go any further.
Make a list of all the elements you’ll need to allow for – cabinets, worktops and kitchen splash back ideas, sink, tap and appliances. If you want to create the wow factor, there are plenty of ways to do so with LED lighting, electric doors and smart storage solutions but these will cost extra, so be prepared to compromise if budget is tight. Open shelving is less expensive than closed cupboards, for example, while capacious low-level, pull-out storage may mean you need fewer wall units, which saves on cost
Then there are the installation costs, which include any preparation work such as plastering and painting, as well as heating and flooring, plumbing, gas, and electrical work. Remember to factor in all plumbing, electrical, and contractor bids into your overall budget, as they’re easy to overlook in the heat of the moment. It’s a good idea to incorporate a 10% contingency fund in your budget to cover any unexpected expenses.
If you’re is a bind about where to splash the cash, here are our top tips on where to spend and where to save:
Worktops are one of the most hardworking aspects of any kitchen, so always aim for the best you can afford. Granite, composite, and solid surfaces are all excellent investments since they are robust, long-lasting, and provide a premium look to your kitchen.
After that, check to see if your cabinets are of high quality. Don’t be tempted to save money by buying thin carcasses; they won’t last long. You should aim for a thickness of at least 15mm all the way around, if not more.
Consider how much money you can save on the doors you choose. Because we can’t all afford expensive wood veneers, why not imitate the look with a laminate or PVC foil finish? Depending on whether they are lacquered or laminated, even high-gloss doors are priced differently. ‘ While they all appear to be the same, a lacquered kitchen might be significantly more expensive than a laminate kitchen;In-Toto Batley kitchen designer Paul Bagguley explains.
Spend wisely on appliances as well, purchasing the greatest oven and stove you can afford – but save money on the laundry and skip the coffee maker and wine cooler. If your budget is tight, compromise is key, so make sure you spend on the things that count – you can always add luxury little appliances and accessories afterwards.
CONSIDER PLUMBING AND HEATING
Will you be able to use existing plumbing for sinks and appliances, or will you need to install new pipes? If you want to incorporate a kitchen island with a sink or other appliances in your design, be sure the piping and electrical are ready before you start laying the flooring. Plan where you’ll put all of your appliances, big and little, to make sure you have enough plug ports.
Consider the best kitchen appliance layout for your space. ‘Wherever you decide to locate your sink, it’s a good idea to install your washing machine and dishwasher nearby,’ says Paul Gibbs, Kitchens Buying Manager, B&Q. ‘It’ll help keep plumbing simple.’
Because radiators take up significant space in kitchens, underfloor heating is a popular option. If you want underfloor heating, you’ll need to install it before you lay the kitchen floor.
When thinking about kitchen lighting ideas, keep in mind that you want the system to be as versatile as possible so you can control different portions of your kitchen independently. Secondary illumination, such as spotlights above the cooking and prep areas, is also beneficial.
Take a look at your kitchen must-haves. Do you yearn for elegant worktops, a striking island, or a plethora of storage cabinets? Or are there any specific kitchen appliances that you believe will make your life much easier?
MAKE A MOODBOARD
Of course, how you want your kitchen to look is a very personal decision. Collecting photographs and magazine tear sheets to build a mood board or kitchen file with anything you’d like to incorporate in your design is quite helpful. This is your wish list, so put anything on it now, but put it in some order because your budget will most likely force you to choose between particular goods at some time.
Also, try to be realistic. You may really want a steam oven, coffee maker, and warming drawers, but you’ll need a large kitchen to accommodate all of these luxuries in addition to the typical kitchen appliance list. Finally, seek advice and inspiration from family and friends who have gone through the kitchen purchasing process.
CONSULT A KITCHEN DESIGNER
A professional kitchen designer’s advice can be crucial in getting the most out of your space. Their knowledge and experience will provide you with a plethora of easy – as well as unique – ideas that you may not have considered.
Kitchen designers will also be up to date on the latest goods, fixtures, and fittings, and will be able to source everything for you. Finally, they’ll ensure that your new kitchen runs as smoothly as possible.
The next important step in setting up your kitchen is to choose your kitchen provider. Choosing the proper provider can assist you in creating a better kitchen. Purchase your kitchen’s tools from a reputable retailer.
CALL IN THE PROFESSIONALS
So, you’ve found your kitchen designer, chosen your kitchen layout and style and you’ve paid your deposit. What happens next? You need to find a team to install it.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that the way your kitchen is set out might make a big difference. A lousy fitter can ruin any kitchen, but a competent one can make even the most basic equipment appear fantastic. Request references from friends and family, or look for a knowledgeable person through a certified trade group, such as the FMB (Federation of Master Builders).
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