As we move into the cooler months here in the UK, people are spending longer indoors and more time focussed on ways to improve their surroundings. Darker nights, curled up on the sofa, with the escapism of the TV can become routine. But then you start to focus on the other things around you… In your home… That could do with a little improvement.
Interestingly, the Autumn-Winter period is when the UK Planning Portal receive the most amount of planning permission applications and there is often a drop in the summer months when renovations usually begin!
The kitchen is always a solid place to start when it comes to renovation projects. However, what starts with that little irritation at the colour of those kitchen tiles quickly snowballs. You can’t stop at the tiles. You start to zone in on that wonky handle on the kitchen cupboard. The small drip from the kitchen tap…
And then. The process begins.
Browsing Pinterest for hours, creating mood boards and pricing up the best solutions to make your home perfect is all part of the fun.
Instigating the improvements? Perhaps a little more challenging.
That’s why we’ve outlined three top tips for keeping your sanity and setting expectations for that kitchen renovation project (and any other home improvements you’re planning along the way!)
Kitchen renovation tips:
Think about the long term, not just the trends.
Whilst you may be having a moment on maximalism, or lusting after those lilac hexagon shaped tiles, you need to think about how much you will love these design trends in 5-10 years’ time. If you’ve ever been through a renovation project, you will know that it doesn’t always go to plan or stick to budget. Think about how willing you are to do the same thing once you’re ‘over’ the initial excitement. Investing in energy efficient solutions may seem boring, but it saves time and money in the long run, too. So, whilst you may be pining after that rather impractical pendant lighting with incandescent light bulbs, will be the best fit for your needs and your bank balance in the end?
Substance over style.
Being a kitchen space, it needs to function first and allow for form to follow second. Whilst having a sink in an obscure place may seem like a nice, quirky touch – will it allow for a plumber to access the pipework if needed, and if a plumbing mishap were to happen, will it destroy anything in its immediate path? This also feeds into the placement of electrics and accessing switches and sockets. Whilst they may not be where you initially want them, the practicality will be more than worth it in the end, and you can always jazz them up a little with different finishes to suit the overall style of the space.
During the planning stage, consider how you will use the space daily. How much storage do you need? Where will it be? And what appliances will you also want to store away when they are not in use. Is there also anything you can double up on when it comes to form and function? For example, if you’re already drinking filtered water, it’s the ideal time to look at under sink water filter options alongside solutions such as a 3-way tap that will be in-keeping with the overall look of the kitchen and sink area.
Plan your budget, then add some more!
Even with the most efficient plans and number crunching, there can be unexpected costs that crop up during renovations. Whilst you can lay out a strict budget from the start, it is also worth adding a 10-20% buffer for anything that may come up when the work is in full swing! Not only that, but as you see the final outcomes piece together, your plans for dressing the space may change, too. So, adding a little extra money on top to allow for that change in cushion fabric, or cutlery set would be a wise thing to consider from the start.
Is there anything else you can do to ensure a kitchen renovation runs smoothly?
Plan to function outside of the kitchen: Especially if you have small children. When you have limited access to your appliances and running water, it can be a real pain to ensure that everyone is happy, watered and fed during long periods whilst work is happening. An air fryer and a portable water filter system could be two versatile options to consider during this time.
Don’t overwhelm yourself with choice: It’s really tempting to get as many tile, paint and work top samples as you can, but sometimes having too much choice can bottle neck decisions. Especially when there is more than one person to please. Stick to three samples as a maximum to make quicker decisions and avoid any abrasive conversations!
Get Multiple Quotes: It can be easier to just get one quote and roll with it but considering two or three quotes can give you a better understanding of costs and timescales. It is also a good idea to have a backup just in case one supplier or tradesman falls through, then you’ll have your back up ready with a quote and a rough idea of timescale.
Accept that some things may be beyond your control: With different suppliers, tradesmen and companies all needed to complete a kitchen renovation efficiently, there are several components that may not also go to plan. If there is a delay on something, try not to get too stressed out as everything will come together eventually! It’s frustrating when you have a final vision in mind, but when things are completed, it’ll be more than worth the wait!
If you’re currently planning or going through a kitchen renovation project, why not head over to Doulton Water Filters on Instagram and share your progress with us? We’re always excited to see plans develop and help with any advice needed when it comes to water filter systems to suit your needs!
