Are you planning to renovate your kitchen this year? For many, Christmas and holiday period shows up their homes for all their defects and many people’s New Year’s resolution is to get it sorted. And no room shows their flaws under pressure than the kitchen. So before you race off to spend hours looking at kitchen showrooms, as a professional kitchen and interior designer, these are the top 3 things you need to think about first:

 

1. Fix the flow

Make sure your room works. Look at the doorways, the sightlines, the routes through. Think about what needs to change. Sometimes it can be a really easy fix, such as changing the handing or type door. Sometimes it may be more fundamental and you may want to consult an interior designer or architect to help solve the problem areas. I’ve consulted clients when we’ve decided the solution is to swap the kitchen and living rooms. Sometimes it’s just changing a window or taking out a door to make the flow of the space work better.

 

Fix the flow

2. Get some inspiration

Yes, go to Pinterest or social media for inspiration but be careful. The most popular pictures will be the most fashionable. If you want to create a timeless kitchen space then be careful of trends in the hard finishes (think floors, cabinet colours, worktops). For example, black taps will not be a trend that lasts. Bring the trends in areas that can be changed and updated as the years go. This does not mean your space needs to be neutral or boring. There are so many ways to bring personality and interest into your space. For some inspiration, why not take a look at our 2023 photobook. It’s free to download here.

 

Raison Home UK Kitchen-1

 

3. Work out your budget


Let’s face it, life is full of compromises and only if you know what your budget is will you be able to make good choices. I’ve met so many people who have a very tight budget for a kitchen renovation but have set their hearts on a very expensive appliance, such as a very high-end fridge freezer. It’s better to spend your budget on the best quality cabinets and hard finishes you can. You don’t want to have to replace these in a few years and upgrading appliances later is much easier and will help you manage your budget now.

Navy Shaker kitchen

 

 

Do you want help with your kitchen or home renovation? Click here to arrange an obligation-free consultation. We have all the experience, solutions and finishes you need to create a home you’ll love for years

 

 

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