Plan to perfection
Ideas to get your project on the right track, whether you’re starting from scratch or want to revamp your space
Sort the layout
If you have a separate kitchen and dining area, it might be possible to knock through a wall to create one larger space. Or you may have a side garden that could be incorporated to create a better shape. Contact a local builder or architect for advice – they should be able to come up with the perfect solution for your situation.
Once you know what space you’ll have, organise a detailed plan. Many companies such as Magnet, Homebase, Ikea, Howdens and Neptune provide a planning service free of charge. Another option is to do it yourself online on a site such as my-new-kitchen.co. uk. However, often an expert will think of things you may not have considered. ‘You can book a home visit with one of our approved surveyors, who will take measurements of your kitchen, check all of your services, plumbing and electrics to ensure that everything will fit perfectly,’ says Rob Lawrence from Wren Kitchens. ‘Then arrange a one-to-one meeting with one of our designers who will help you choose the units, fixtures and fittings, iron out any problems and offer advice. You’ll take away a 3D drawing of what your kitchen will look like and how much it will cost, all free of charge.’
Let light in
When structural changes are needed, it’s the perfect opportunity to bring in more light, either by adding bifold doors across the entire width of the room, a glazed roof over a side extension or by installing rooflights in the body of the room. Michelin chef Michel Roux Jr has recently launched a new kitchen range (see left) with the manufacturer Moores and uses his professional experience to create the right workflow. ‘When I’m cooking, the things that make a big difference for me are great lighting, clever storage and a sensible layout,’ he says.
Improve any
awkward spots
A supporting pillar in the middle of your kitchen can be incorporated into your design by placing an island next to it. With a sloping roof, instead of having wall units, put up open shelves that can be easily cut to size and used to display your favourite pieces.
If you have a roof beam across the kitchen, make a feature of it by using it to hang pots and pans from. With limited cooking or preparation space, consider putting the hob or sink into an island unit. Or buy a standalone butcher’s block on wheels that can be pushed out of the way when it’s not in use. Consider super-slim cabinets if space is tight in a particular area and, where possible, replace doors that open into the room with outward opening ones or install sliding doors to gain a bit more space.
Revamp in style
If your budget won’t stretch to a brand-new kitchen, there are lots of ways you can update the room without breaking the bank. For instance, you could replace the unit doors with a more modern design, change the worktops for something more practical, install a new sink or tap, replace worn flooring, add new splashbacks or update your appliances with something sleeker and more efficient.
Go from top down
Worksurfaces get a lot of use and are on constant display, so if yours are starting to
‘Be clear about how much you have to spend to focus your mind and determine the kind of kitchen you can afford. Also consider how long you will be in your home. There’s no point spending all your savings if you’re only going to stay for five years,’ John Sims-Hilditch, Neptune
look a little worse for wear, or if they are just old-fashioned, choose something that’s more contemporary. ‘Surfaces have a considerable visual impact as they cover such a vast proportion of the room,’ says Jonathan Stanley from Caesarstone UK. ‘A premium quartz design will create the instant impression of an upgrade, particularly when it’s extended beyond the countertop to create matching upstands and splashbacks. This can help make even the most costeffective, off-the-shelf kitchen look far more expensive.’
Choose new doors
If you’re happy with the existing layout and the carcasses are in good order, replacement doors are an obvious option. They’re fairly easy to fit and there are a lot of style and colour choices available. A key benefit is that there’s less upheaval – you get an instant new look and generally you won’t even have to empty your cupboards!
Alternatively, The Used Kitchen Company sells used and ex-display kitchens at prices up to 70 per cent off the RRP. ‘The kitchens are carefully dismantled on site, delivered to you and installed by our recommended fitters,’ explains MD Looeeze Grossman. Complete kitchens with worktops and appliances start at £900.
Change appliances
Consider swapping a bulky range cooker for an eye-level oven in a tall cabinet, or the latest combination of induction hob and integrated extractor which does two jobs in one and can be placed anywhere in the kitchen. You’ll get enhanced practicality and contemporary good looks.