The kitchen is the most important room in the house for most homeowners. In recent years, the way we use our kitchens has changed, with many people now working from home and families keen to eat together, socialize and entertain.
If your kitchen could do with a makeover, or you’re looking to create a more versatile, functional space, we’ve put together some top tips for a seamless, stress-free revamp.
Research and Get Ideas
Before you start buying accessories or ordering paint or kitchen tiles, research, get ideas and create a mood board or rough plan.
It’s always beneficial to start the process with a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Think carefully about the scale of the job and how much time and money you have available.
Are you just looking to spruce up the décor and modernize the room, or are you considering a full-scale kitchen renovation project?
Researching will give you an accurate idea of costs, timeframes and the type of work that is required to turn your plans into reality.
Find the Best Companies and Individuals for the Job
If you’re interested in kitchen remodeling, or you have grand plans for a kitchen extension or a change of layout, it’s important to find the best companies for the job.
Ask people you know and trust for recommendations, search for reputable businesses online, read reviews and ask for advice on local social media groups. Contact companies, get quotes, compare prices and arrange to meet with designers, builders or expert remodelers to go through ideas and costs.
Building relationships is beneficial not just to give you peace of mind, but also to open doors in terms of design ideas and possibilities.
Seeking expert advice can help you explore different options and get a sense of what you can do with the space.
Be Realistic About Your Budget
The cost of a kitchen makeover can vary from less than a hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on the type of work you undertake, the materials, fixtures, fittings and furniture you choose, and the amount of labor required.
Be realistic about your budget and what you can achieve. If you don’t want to spend much, you might not be able to transform the space with brand-new furniture, luxe lighting and new countertops and units, for example, but you can make a difference on a budget.
Simple steps like painting the walls and cabinets, adding plants, accessories and wall art, and replacing damaged floor or wall tiles can make a big difference.
If you want a more dramatic makeover, it’s worth considering doing renovation work in stages. This way, you can spread the cost.
Understand the Scale of the Project
Some kitchen revamps are very simple and they can be done quickly with minimal disruption to day-to-day life, but this is not always the case.
If you’re fitting a new floor, tearing walls down, adding an extension, or ripping units and countertops out, you may be without a fully functioning kitchen for a few days or weeks.
If the project is going to take a long time, think about how you’ll manage.
You might want to relocate until the work is done or you may be able to cope with a bit of careful planning and organization. If you won’t have an oven for a week, for example, you could prepare some meals to freeze and then heat in the microwave, dine out, or visit friends and family members.
If people offer to cook for you, you can return the favor once your beautiful new kitchen is ready.
Choose a Design You Love
Many of us like to keep up with trends, especially in the age of social media. There’s nothing wrong with following on-trend accounts and getting inspiration from magazines, blogs and social media feeds, but make sure you choose a design you love.
From colors, flooring materials and patterns for curtains and cushions to finishing touches, it’s important to celebrate your style rather than feel like you have to follow the crowd.
Take elements from different trends you like, put your stamp on the design plans and don’t be afraid to personalize the space and make it unique.
Are you looking to spruce up your kitchen? Whether you’re freshening up a traditional kitchen or embarking upon a full kitchen remodel, it’s beneficial to follow these simple steps for a seamless revamp.
Make sure you have a clear idea of what you want, find the best individuals and businesses for the job and be realistic about your budget.
Prepare for the renovation and ensure you understand the scale of the job. Research trends and ideas but focus on designs you love.
