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Renovating a kitchen is an exciting opportunity to create a fresh, functional, and inviting space that reflects your style and meets your household’s needs. It can add considerable value to your home and greatly enhance your enjoyment of it. We’ve gathered the following advice and tips to guide you through your kitchen renovation, covering everything from initial planning to final touches.
Planning Your Kitchen Renovation
Every successful kitchen renovation starts with thoughtful planning. Begin by considering how you use your kitchen: what works well, and what could be improved? Do you need more storage, more workspace, or updated appliances? Consider the flow of your kitchen, keeping the ‘kitchen triangle’ – the arrangement of the sink, cooker and fridge – efficient and unobstructed. Keep in mind any potential plumbing or electrical changes when making these decisions.
A well-planned kitchen renovation may involve extending your kitchen or re-configuring the layout. Consult with an architect or a kitchen design specialist to help you make the most of your space.
Expanding Your Kitchen
If your current kitchen feels cramped or lacks natural light, consider extending or opening up your kitchen space. Skylights are a fantastic way to flood your kitchen with daylight, creating a light, airy ambiance. Bi-fold doors can open up your kitchen to the garden, extending your living space outdoors and providing a seamless transition between inside and outside. Some extensions might require planning permission, so be sure to check the regulations in your area and consult with a professional.
Designing Your Dream Kitchen
The design of your kitchen should be both beautiful and functional. Think about your style preferences, but also consider practicalities, such as how easy the surfaces are to clean and maintain.
Choosing kitchen cupboards is a big decision. Opting for timeless styles can help ensure your kitchen won’t quickly feel dated. Consider a mix of closed cupboards and open shelves for a balanced look that offers plenty of storage. For a modern twist, handleless kitchen cabinets offer a sleek appearance.
Built-in appliances can make your kitchen look cohesive and streamlined. They’re also great space savers, as they fit into the existing design rather than taking up additional floor space.
Choosing Tradespeople
Choosing the right tradespeople can make or break your kitchen renovation. It’s important to find skilled professionals who are reliable, experienced, and well-reviewed. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and request quotes from at least three different tradespeople for each job. Check their qualifications and make sure they have appropriate insurance.
Flooring, Plastering, and Tiling
Choosing your kitchen flooring will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Hardwearing tiles or luxury vinyl flooring can stand up to heavy traffic and are easy to clean, while wooden floors add warmth and character.
High-quality plastering is essential for a polished finish. Ensure your tradespeople take the time to properly prepare the surfaces and use the right materials for a smooth, long-lasting result.
Tiles are not only practical for splashbacks and floors, but they can also be a stunning design feature. With endless styles, shapes, and colours to choose from, tiles allow you to inject your personality into your kitchen.
Finishing Touches
The final touches can truly make your kitchen feel complete. Consider your lighting design – task lighting for work areas, ambient lighting for general illumination, and accent lighting to highlight design features. Don’t forget about power points, ensuring you have enough for your appliances, and consider convenient locations for them.
The Journey to Your Dream Kitchen
While renovating a kitchen may seem daunting, with careful planning, the right professionals, and thoughtful design, you can create a kitchen that is a pleasure to cook in and a hub for family and friends.
