6 ways to get started on your kitchen design or renovation

Whether you have just purchased a new home or are currently planning a kitchen renovation, deciding on a new kitchen can be tricky.

There are so many different styles and designs to choose from! Where do you even begin?

Creating luxury kitchens is what we live and breathe, so we've created a guide to help you get started.

Assess your current space.

The first step is to look at your current space and analyse whether it could work for the new kitchen you want. For instance, do you need to knock down a wall to create an open layout? Is adding bifold doors to the garden a great idea to make the space feel larger?

Think about function.

Before even thinking of the aesthetics, think about what you want to get out of your new kitchen. If you love to cook, you'll want a kitchen with plenty of worktop space to prep your meals. If entertaining is more your thing, you might want a larger kitchen with an island so guests can socialise while you're busy in the kitchen. If you have a family, you'll need plenty of storage. Whatever your needs, make sure they're at the forefront of your mind when choosing a kitchen.

Define your style.

Before looking at kitchens, it's essential to take a step back and think about the overall style you want for your home. What colours do you like, neutrals or bold hues? How about materials; wood, stone, or metals? Matt or gloss finish? Do you prefer a classic design or something modern? Once you understand your personal style, it will be much easier to find a kitchen that works with it.

Consider your budget.

Having a realistic idea of how much you can afford to spend on your dream kitchen is important. Kitchens can be expensive, so it's crucial to set a budget and plan in some wriggle room if you change your mind about certain things down the line. Within your budget, start broadly prioritising what's essential to you and what are 'nice-to-haves.' For example, is an island non-negotiable, but you could stretch to a wine fridge too if your budget allowed?

Don't forget about appliances.

Appliances are essential to any functioning kitchen, so be sure to factor them into your budget when planning your new kitchen. In addition, consider things like energy ratings and noise level; nobody wants a dishwasher that sounds like an aeroplane taking off!

In addition, consider 'new' appliances that might not have been on the radar the last time you updated your kitchen. For example, would a downdraft induction hob look great on the island, or perhaps a Neff Slide'n'Hide oven would complete your design? With these factors in mind, pick out appliances that will fit both your budget and your needs.

Make it yours.

The finishing touches are what make a kitchen personal to you. It's essential to at least think about these at the beginning, as they can affect your kitchen design. If you want to have some items on show, like plants and kitchenware, you'll need to incorporate some open shelving. If you want to add a touch of luxe with metal, you may want to consider adding profiling to your cabinets.

With these factors in mind, the journey to your perfect kitchen should feel a little less overwhelming. But, of course, if you feel confused or need to discuss ideas at any stage in the process, we're always here to help.

For more kitchen ideas to spark your imagination, check our kitchen ranges out