Whether it’s a simple redesign or a full-scale kitchen renovation, we’re going back to basics and taking you through the initial steps in the planning process.

From assessing your vision, setting a budget to engaging the right trades, KBB journo Charlotte Luxford has put together a guide on what you need to know about the planning stage of your kitchen renovation…

Assess your needs and wants

This is an important first step – take the time to think about your daily routines, storage requirements, size of family and how you cook or entertain, as well as anything your current kitchen lacks, advises Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio. “I talk to my clients about how they envision living and cooking in the future – as ensuring the kitchen will meet your changing needs in the years to come is also vital to a successful renovation,” he adds.

Set a budget

Tiresome as number-crunching can be, it’s vital to create a detailed budget to prevent any unexpected costs, although you should always have a contingency pot to fall back on – usually around 10-20% of your overall budget.

When it comes to the cost of the kitchen alone, Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, recommends allocating around 50% for cabinetry, 30% for worktops and 20% for appliances, although you’ll also need to factor in any structural changes, plumbing, electrical work, and decorating into your overall budget.

“A clear budget acts as a roadmap and helps you prioritise where to spend and where to save,” adds Charlie. “It also enables your designer to recommend options that align with your vision, while staying within your limits.”

Consider your timeline

“The timeline can vary significantly,” says Josie Medved, design manager at Symphony Group. However, Josie recommends allowing anywhere between two to six weeks for the design process, and around six to 12 weeks for the renovation process. “This obviously depends on the scope of work, the size of the kitchen, any structural modifications required, and the availability of contractors.”

Engage an architect and builder

“It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of discussing ideas with a kitchen designer, but it’s critical to first engage with a builder and architect to fully understand the steps required to move forward effectively,” advises Allison Lynch, senior designer at Roundhouse.

She notes there are practicalities to consider before you can move into the design phase – party wall agreements, any conservation area restrictions, submitting a planning application if necessary, as well as seeking quotes from builders.

Once you’ve got the above sorted, you can move onto the next stage – the design phase.

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