Main alterations
The existing kitchen was removed and sold. The old back door (where the fridge now stands, see main picture opposite) was bricked up and moved to the right for a more logical flow from the dining area through the kitchen and into the backyard.
A builder demolished the wall between the kitchen and Justin’s bedroom. An electrician installed new electrical points in the kitchen floor and walls, and Richard did the plumbing himself – another new skill acquired! Elaine then designed the layout for the kitchen and cupboards, and compiled the cutting lists for the boards.
Richard started assembling the cupboards after the boards had been delivered, with Elaine as his assistant. The kids were tasked with finding the correct board sizes – which was quite a job!
The parquet flooring from Justin’s old bedroom was removed and set aside for re-use in the new dining area. A flooring company installed the vinyl flooring in the kitchen and then the cupboards were fitted.
Once the cupboards were in, the bamboo tops were cut to size and then varnished and fitted; Elaine painted the doors with help from Chloe. Richard fitted all the doors, drawers and handles. The couple tiled the walls themselves and ticked off another new skill mastered.