Kitchen renovation can often be a daunting prospect. The costs involved in the project may be putting you off, or you just might not know where to start. With so many choices available – including cabinets, countertops, lighting, floor surfaces, appliances and furniture – you have unlimited options when it comes to renovating your kitchen, even if you are on a limited budget. However, making a mistake when it comes to your renovation could cost you in the long run. Before you start, check out these top tips for kitchen renovations.
1. Develop your budget
The kitchen you opt for will ultimately depend on your budget. Remember – it can be easy to get carried away with kitchen renovations, so do your research, comprise a budget and try to stick to it as realistically as you can. Visiting home improvement stores and flicking through interior design magazines will give you plenty of ideas, but you will need to be aware of what you’re spending.
2. Plan your kitchen
You’ll need to plan your kitchen well before diving in. Ask yourself what you want to get out of the interior space. For example, do you want it to be a welcoming place for the whole family? Do you want to include a television or sound system? Sit down and think about what you want your kitchen to be, and then make plans.
3. Choose kitchen cabinets and appliances
These items will take up a large chunk of your budget, so try and choose these first, and leave any other decorative items or kitchen essentials until later.
4. Choose floor surfaces
The floor surface in your kitchen is imperative, and often the one you will choose will depend on whether you have young children or pets in the home. Regardless of whether you are choosing carpet, linoleum, tile or hardwood flooring, think about the long term. Remember – the most attractive flooring might not be the most practical.
5. Choose a kitchen that reflects the rest of the home
You will need to choose a color scheme and design for your kitchen. Make sure that you choose a design that reflects the rest of the interior of your property, and refrain from choosing bold colors or styles that may look on-trend now but could look dated in a few years. Your kitchen will need to last a long time – choose wisely.
6. Choose lighting
You will need a well-illuminated kitchen if you plan on preparing food. Think of all the different types of lighting that you want to incorporate into the interior space, such as LEDs or layered kitchen lighting.
7. Consider the space of your existing kitchen
When designing your kitchen, bear in mind the size and shape of the interior space. This will help you choose the right designs and styles for your circumstances.
8. Find a contractor
You may need a contractor to install the kitchen for you. Do your research and opt for a service that provides you with great value for money and excellent customer service. Third party review websites will enable you to find a contractor with a good reputation, and one that will be able to complete your kitchen on-time and on-budget.