5 kitchen planning tips

The kitchen is the heart and soul of any home. It is a lot more than just a cooking space; it’s also the hub of family activities and entertainment. In the past kitchens were often very small and heavily isolated from the other rooms in a home. These days we tend to incorporate the kitchen with other open spaces, whether this is to make a work space or a casual area for dining. No matter how big or small your kitchen is, it’s the correct planning and maintenance that can make it more enjoyable and save you additional costs.

Set a solid financial budget

Whether you are just planning your kitchen or you are preparing for a kitchen renovation, it’s worth remembering that any money you invest in your kitchen is a long term investment. This is why it’s important to set a solid financial budget that will help you to spend money on the most important things and save money where it is ok to save. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how much money you can save by choosing cheaper cabinet door handles or simpler opening and closing mechanisms.

Choosing the right flooring

Kitchen flooring has to be practical, especially with the amount of water and spillages that happen when cooking and preparing food. Never use wooden flooring around the sink area; any water exposure will be likely to cause damage. Ceramic tiles are the best choice for your kitchen as they are so easy to maintain. The only problem with ceramic tiles is Fugues, but you can minimize that problem by using bigger tiles, that way there will be a lower amount of Fugues.

Choosing Kitchen Cabinetry

Cabinets can take a big chunk out of a budget during a kitchen remodel. Because they are a significant investment, it’s worth shopping around and making choices with confidence. If your existing cabinets are of a decent quality, in good working condition and the layout functions well, the most cost effective option is to paint or restain them. Another alternative is refacing, this involves the installation of a new veneer on the cabinet box and replacing the drawer fronts and doors. If you do choose refacing, this should be done by professionals.

Choosing a worktop

There are many elements to consider when it comes to choosing a worktop. The first being budget, this will have a big influence on the type of material you choose. The second is practicality – do you want something that is easy to maintain? – and the third is the appearance – what texture and colour you want, along with any additional design features such as sweeping curves or thin edges. Granite worktops are a popular choice, as they are both strong and durable. They are also a great choice for cooks and chefs, as the cold surface is ideal for pastry making. To create a natural feeling of character and warmth, solid wood worktops are a great option; they are also perfect for both contemporary and classic kitchens.

Kitchen Storage

When planning a kitchen remodel, kitchen storage options should be at the top of your list of things to consider. Take a walk around your current kitchen and make a note of what works and what doesn’t, what could be rearranged to create a better flow? The kitchen is a central meeting point where the whole family comes together, so it’s important to create a well organized space that is not only a joy to use but also assists your busy lifestyle.