Renovating your kitchen can make a huge difference to your space. But as one of the harder rooms in a home to get right, it can also be a daunting task.
Proper planning is vital, and, of course, having a few insider tips (like the ones discussed in the blog) certainly helps.
From clever choices when it comes to your flooring and countertops to smart storage solutions, there’s lots you can do to make your kitchen renovation the best it can be.
Let’s take a look at the top tips and tricks you can use to create your dream kitchen.
Planning your kitchen layout
The layout that you choose for your kitchen is one of the most important factors in determining how well it will flow. Plus, it’s also one of the hardest elements to change later down the line.
With this in mind, it’s important to make sure your plans work for your needs – and future needs – before starting your renovation.
A great first step is to use what’s called the ‘kitchen working triangle’. This is a rule that states that your oven, sink and refrigerator should form a triangle with no blockage between them.
You could also think of it as the cooking zone, the cleaning zone and the prep zone if this works better for you. By designing your kitchen this way you’ll ensure that your kitchen has a good working flow.
Choosing the right materials for your kitchen
The next thing you’ll need to consider is the durability of the materials you choose. For high traffic areas like the kitchen, consider durable and easy to maintain options so that you don’t spend all your time cleaning or replacing worn or broken items.
Getting the flooring right
Your floor can take a beating in the kitchen – it’s a high traffic area that sees a lot of spills. From day-to-day meal prep to when guests come over and linger at the breakfast bar, you need a floor that’s easy to look after.
Hybrid flooring and luxury vinyl planks are a great option here, as they’re durable and are easy to clean and maintain. And with this type of flooring available in a range of colours and aesthetics, it’s easy to see why it’s a good choice for the heart of your home.
Countertop options
You’ll also need to consider your countertop – especially if you’re the type who likes to prep directly on it. Quartz is a durable option that’s also non-porous, so it won’t absorb anything that happens to get on it.
Another durable option is granite, but although it provides a luxurious finish, it’s porous so it’s important to consider how you’ll be using your benchtop. You’ll also find that quartz is lower maintenance than granite, so it’ll be easier to maintain in the long run.
Those looking for a more budget friendly option that’s also durable and low maintenance could also consider laminate, as there are plenty of beautiful designs available.
Lighting can make all the difference
While natural light can be enough for food prep during the day, task and accent lights are a game changer when it comes to using your kitchen at other times.
Think strip lighting under top cupboards in areas where you’ll frequently be preparing food, and accent lights near design features you want to highlight.
Top tip: Position your sink beneath a window if possible so you’ve got a nice view while doing dishes or washing raw ingredients.
Maximising storage and organisation
Storage can sometimes be overlooked in favour of making a space look as pretty as possible, but this is a decision you may regret. Having ample storage helps keep your kitchen clutter-free, so look for innovative ways to maximise it.
Pull out cabinets and built-in organisers are fantastic for this, and the value of vertical space should never be underestimated.
Wall mounted racks and shelving will be your best friend in terms of keeping bench space free, and a lazy Susan can make accessing things like spices or items in jars much easier. Just remember to keep things you use frequently front and centre so you don’t have to go digging for them.
Adding personality with decor and accessories
Although functionality should be front of mind when renovating your kitchen, it should also be a space that you enjoy being in. While it has its practical needs, you can still add your personal style to your kitchen.
Do you love a pop of colour? Opt for a statement backsplash in a bright tone, or a fun pattern. You can also make your cabinetry unique with different styles of hardware – or even mix and match different handles.
Colourful appliances are also great for this, and, of course, smaller details like plants, artwork, and even the tea towels you display.
The best way to choose your accessories is to take a step back and look at your kitchen as a whole, then select elements that tie everything together and create a harmonious space.
You’ll also need to consider your home’s overall aesthetic to make it all flow beautifully. Transforming the heart of your home is exciting, and if you take your time at the planning stage it’ll be much easier.
By considering the layout, materials, storage and more upfront, you’ll avoid common renovation pitfalls. So, embrace the journey and soon you’ll have your dream kitchen that you can enjoy for years to come.
