The Top 5 kitchen mistakes to avoid

KITCHEN RENOVATIONS DON'T HAPPEN THAT OFTEN, SO THEY'RE NORMALLY PRETTY EXCITING, BUT THEY CAN ALSO CAUSE A BIT OF STRESS.

We're sure you've seen the finished product in magazines and wondered how you could get your kitchen to look 'just like that'!

When it comes to mistakes, challenges and conundrums, our experienced design team has encountered nearly all of them. So we thought it would be helpful to share some common ones with you, so you can hopefully avoid the same thing happening! For each mistake, you'll see we've provided an article about how to solve your dilemma – we hope you find them useful.

Mistake #1: Not realising how long it takes to design & order a kitchen.

You might think you can design your dream kitchen at the weekend and have it installed within a month. But, unfortunately, it doesn't normally work like that. A kitchen renovation usually takes several months from concept to completion, and with all the recent global supply disruptions, currently even longer.

Mistake #2: Being unrealistic about your budget.

It is important to remember that even small changes can add up quickly, and unexpected expenses are always possible. To avoid overspending, it is best to have a firm budget before you begin any work. By being realistic about your budget from the start, you can help ensure that your kitchen renovation goes smoothly and ends up exactly the way you want it to.

Mistake #3: Underestimating the amount of storage you need.

To avoid this mistake, taking a careful inventory of all the items you need to store before beginning your renovation is crucial. This includes not only large appliances and cookware but also smaller items such as spices and utensils. Once you have a clear idea of the space you need, you can then begin to plan your kitchen design accordingly. By taking the time to do this upfront, you can avoid ending up with a kitchen that is cluttered and cramped.

Mistake #4: Not considering lighting.

Many homeowners focus on choosing the right colour and style of cabinets, but some fail to properly consider how their kitchen will be lit. Proper lighting can make all the difference in a kitchen; for instance, under-cabinet lights make food prep or reading recipes much easier. The atmosphere is just as (if not more so) important. The right collection of pendant lights over an island can transform how the space looks instantly.

Mistake #5: Neglecting time choosing worktops.

With so many options on the market, it can be tempting to pick the first thing that catches your eye. But it's easy to lead with the colour and finish of a worktop without considering the practicalities. For example, if you cook or have a large family, you'll need something scratch and stain-resistant. Or, if you have a lot of worktop space, you may want to create a feature with some solid wood. Once you know what you need, you can start narrowing down your options and choose the worktop that's right for you.

If you're embarking on a new kitchen project, we hope this has pointed you in the right direction. For even more helpful tips like these, check out our knowledge hub and our blog. And if you want to chat about getting started with your kitchen project, get in touch to organise a chat.