Things To Know About Planning a New Kitchen
Taking on a kitchen renovation is an exciting yet daunting project for homeowners. Whether you're looking to transform a tired cooking space or create a completely new heart of the home, careful planning is key to achieving your dream kitchen stress-free and on budget. Using our wealth of experience, we are sharing our advice on planning a new kitchen.
Where to Begin Your Kitchen Planning Journey
Starting a kitchen makeover requires preparation. Before getting started on design choices, take an organised approach to understanding your space and kitchen needs.
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Assessing Your Current Kitchen Space
The first step involves measuring your existing kitchen. Take exact measurements of wall lengths, window and door positions and any room features that might impact your kitchen design. Create a floor plan that will be used to plan your whole project.
Decide Your Kitchen Priorities
Think about how you currently use your kitchen. Are you an enthusiastic home cook who needs extensive workspace? Do you entertain frequently and require an open-plan design? Understanding your lifestyle will guide every decision in your kitchen project.
Storage and Function
Take the time to work out your storage needs by taking an inventory and seeing if you need more storage space than you currently have. Kitchens need storage that makes the most of every centimetre of space. There are many ways to do this including integrated appliances, pull-out pantries, corner cabinets, overhead and under-counter storage options. It's worth looking at kitchen showrooms or consulting with a kitchen designer to discover all the ways to improve your current storage set up.
Budget and Timeline Planning
Setting a realistic budget and timeline prevents potential stress and disappointment. Kitchen renovations in the UK tend to range from £10,000 to £50,000 depending on the kitchen size and specifications. When working out a budget, factor in labour costs, materials, appliances, utilities, cabinetry and worktops. Our top tip is to always have a contingency fund (usually 10-15% of total budget).
Timings for the completion of a kitchen project vary hugely, depending on how much work is involved and the ordering times or availability of trades. It is best to consult with a kitchen company who can give you a good idea of the timescales involved.
Utility Needs
Before finalising any kitchen designs it's worth speaking to trades about possible plumbing and electrical requirements. You may need to relocate water pipes, update electrical circuits, install additional sockets or update ventilation. The more changes you make, the higher the end cost of your project. If you are able to keep some of your services in the same place, this can help with tighter budgets.
Finding Your Ideal Kitchen Design
Selecting the Right Supplier and Designer
Choosing a reputable UK kitchen supplier is very important. When searching for a kitchen supplier look at established local businesses with design services, a portfolio of completed projects, positive customer testimonials and transparent pricing.
Design Elements to Consider
In kitchen design there are many different options which can be exciting but it can also be hard to make decisions on so many things. First off, start with your cabinetry and storage by selecting cabinets with the right aesthetics and functionality. Consider if you would like handleless designs and soft-close mechanisms. But also look at the material durability and pick colour schemes that complement your home.
Worktops and Surfaces
Worktops and surfaces are a key part of any kitchen. They can vary by style, cost and durability depending on what you dream of in your new space. Try looking at materials such as:
- Granite
- Quartz
- Solid wood
- Composite materials
Appliances and Flooring
Once you have your main kitchen elements selected, choosing appliances is the next step. Choose energy-efficient appliances that suit your cooking style and consider integrated appliances for a seamless design.
Flooring Considerations
Flooring can make a big impact on your entire space. It may be that you are keeping your existing flooring, however if you are needing to update it, select flooring that withstands kitchen demands such as porcelain tiles, luxury vinyl, engineered wood or ceramic options.
Layout Considerations
Kitchen Layouts
Kitchen layouts can really impact the whole functionality of a space. Popular layouts include L-shaped, U-shaped, galley and open-plan designs. Kitchen islands are becoming more and more popular, but they don't always work in the best way for the space. Consider workflow, cooking patterns and social interactions when designing your layout. A designer can really help with making these layout decisions and advising on the best designs.
Lighting Design
Lighting is an important area that a lot of homeowners can overlook but it can really elevate a kitchen and make or break cooking areas. Create layered lighting with ambient overhead lights, task lighting for work areas as well as accent lighting for atmosphere.
Kitchen Installation Process
Professional Fitting
You may want to fit your own kitchen or hire professional installers. The professionals will help with their knowledge in precise measurements, correct appliance integration, compliance with building regulations and warranty protection. Some fitters can also install splashbacks and flooring, as well as fit electric, gas or water utilities to make the installation seamless. Our cabinets come fully assembled, which helps with the entire installation process.
Typical Installation Timeline
A standard UK kitchen installation takes approximately 2-4 weeks, depending on the complexity and any structural modifications that need to take place.
Sustainability and Efficiency
It's worth thinking about how your kitchen can be more efficient and sustainable. You could use:
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Sustainable materials
- Waste reduction
Professional Advice
Always consult kitchen design professionals who understand UK building standards and can provide bespoke advice for your space.
Planning a new kitchen requires careful planning of many different details. By approaching your kitchen project systematically and working with experienced professionals, you can create a beautiful yet functional space that enhances your home's value and your daily life.
Online Kitchen Store is committed to helping homeowners make their dream kitchen a reality. Our design team is ready to guide you through every stage of your kitchen planning. Speak to us today to get a quote or book our design service.
