The first step in renovating your kitchen is to know what is essential to you when using it. Do you need high-tech devices? Do you prefer gas or electricity? Do you use strong spices in your cooking so that you need high-quality ventilation? Do you use the oven very often, and do you want your necessary equipment close to it? Before the renovation starts, you must be clear what needs you want your new kitchen to meet. Use your current space for your daily functions and note what bothers you and what favorite details you would like to include in the design.
Set your budget before you start renovating
As you design your new kitchen, be realistic about the cost. Large renovations often end up taking more time and cost than the original estimate, so it is an excellent idea to pursue a conservative budget below your maximum to ensure that the original is exceeded.
Do some research before renovating your kitchen.
Professionals will make their suggestions, but that does not mean that it is not important to do your own research. Visit exhibitions (where possible) and places related to kitchen renovation and discuss with the experts what aroused your interest. Your active participation in decision making is essential. Renovation is a process that requires discussion and exchange of views between the stakeholder and the professionals until the end.
Watch out for “hidden” expenses.
It is important for the budget to include labor and materials costs as well as taxes and shipping or delivery costs that may arise. Ensure that the team of professionals who has undertaken your renovation gives you offers regarding the final price to avoid unpleasant surprises that will cost you! Hidden expenses may also include needing to rewire the kitchen, or perhaps some of the appliances don’t meet the standards required. If so, you may need to look at parts to fix high-end appliances. Once you have budgeted for these, you will find that these hidden expenses don’t have to be “hidden.”
Choose the layout that suits you.
Once you have identified your needs, think about the ideal layout of the space. Think about how you use your current kitchen to set your priorities for remodeling. What works and what does not? Arrange the sink, refrigerator, and oven (the three most used items) in a triangular pattern. This is generally considered the most convenient layout because it saves unnecessary steps and efficiently works two people simultaneously. If you have a family, then space is vital. Also, if more than one person is usually using the kitchen at the same time, such as your partner, you can incorporate more than one job. Or, if there is enough space, consider adding an island or buying a wheeled bench that can be moved around the room and turned off when not in use.
It’s time to start upgrading your kitchen! It doesn’t have to be difficult but rather, well planned, well designed and executed with patience and professionalism.
