perfect the plans

planning “WHEN A NEW KITCHEN, intend THINK ABOUT HOW YOU TO USE THE SPACE” ~ ANTHONY FLETCHER, SCHWEIGEN

It’s infinitely easier to make a change on paper than with a built wall, so take your time in the initial design stages. “Make sure you get the size of the house and the layout right,” says Frank. That advice extends to every room, and the fine details within. “Do you like baking? Then a large oven with lots of bench space and clever storage options for trays and racks will be essential,” advises managing director Anthony Fletcher of kitchen appliance company Schweigen. “Or, if you enjoy pre-dinner conversation, incorporate a cooktop into an island counter so that guests can gather round and join in while you cook.”

It’s also a good idea to consider your appliances early on, says category marketing manager

Costa Avgerinos of LG Electronics. “Counter depth is an important factor to create a flush look,” he says. “Other elements to bear in mind include leaving 15mm around your fridge for ventilation, and space to open its door without hitting cupboards.”

Even less glamorous spaces such as the laundry need special attention. “Decide whether a stacked washer and dryer layout or side-by-side configuration is best for you and the area you have,” says senior marketing manager Brad Reed of home appliances firm LG Electronics.

It’s in this planning phase that you can optimise your layout and include all the clever storage tricks you’ve always dreamed of.