Whether you’re planning a straightforward makeover or a full-scale kitchen extension, we’re going back to basics and taking you through the process from start to finish…

From assessing your space to the final installation, we’ve broken down what you need to know about renovating your kitchen. Let’s begin, shall we?

The planning phase

Assessing your needs and wants, from thinking about daily routines and how your family uses the space, to storage requirements is an important first step when planning your kitchen renovation. Equally important is setting a detailed, realistic budget, as well as a contingency pot.

Do your research and speak to the trades to discover what’s possible with your space. An architect or builder can advise whether you might need party wall agreements or to submit a planning application and other key considerations based on the scale of your project.

Also during the planning phase, map out a timeline for renovating your kitchen. The experts recommend allowing between two to six weeks for the design process, and from six to 12 weeks for the renovation. Find out more about this phase here.

The design phase

Next, it’s time for the actual design of your new kitchen. So, start by mapping out your floor plan – take accurate measurements of the kitchen area (including walls, doorways, windows, and ceiling height), and also take account of any key architectural elements such as plumbing, electrical outlets and load-bearing walls. This is where you might need an architect or structural engineer to provide their expertise.

Once you’ve got all your measurements sorted, you can start looking for a designer. We recommend visiting showrooms to get a feel for each company, find out how they work, and compare the quality of craftsmanship, as well as checking reviews and asking for testimonials. Once you’ve narrowed down your favourites, book consultations to discuss your project in more detail.

Some key aspects to consider when designing your kitchen are the layout and where the different zones will be located (the main cooking run, wet zone, preparation area, island and/or dining area depending on space). Take your time to find the right cabinetry style that suits your home both in terms of looks and practicality, and make sure to pay close attention to materials and your choice of finishes for a durable and lasting design. And, don’t overlook lighting – opt for a layered scheme to ensure your space is properly illuminated for different functions.

Click here for our complete lowdown on the key steps to desiging your kitchen.

Pre-build and build phase

Before the installation of your new kitchen, think about whether you will rent, move in with friends or family, or stay at the property during the build of your kitchen. You will then need to get your space ready (a perfect opportunity for decluttering) and set up a temporary kitchen.

Depending on the size of your project, the builders will install new roofs or openings, rip out the existing kitchen and subfloor, and sort plumbing and electrics.

For more on what to expect during the pre-build and build phase of renovating your kitchen, click here.

The kitchen installation

To get ready for the delivery of your kitchen, ensure the entryways are clear, and you allow plenty of space in the room. First, the base cabinets will be fitted. Those installing the work surfaces will need to measure and create a ‘template’ of your worktops before they cut them to size.

The appliances are usually installed by the fitting team during the installation, unless it’s a specialist appliance such as an Aga range cooker (typically installed prior to the cabinets). However, you will need a qualified electricians and/or gas engineers to second-fix the appliances and light fixtures.

Then, if your kitchen is hand painted, the cabinet painters will come in to apply the top coats, followed by the hardware. Lastly, the fitters will arrange a ‘snagging’ session to check everything looks good and is in place.

Before the last building control inspection and the ‘final certificate’ is issued, make sure to raise any issues with your builders.

Enjoyed this post? Click here for beautiful before and after kitchen transformations to inspire your project

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