Readers Digest
Magazine subscription Podcast
HomeLifestyleHome & Garden

What to consider when planning a new kitchen

What to consider when planning a new kitchen
If you are planning to renovate your kitchen, take plenty of time to think the project through. Consult all family members and visit kitchen displays to search out features you like
Before you start
There are several things you will need to consider in order to avoid making any hasty decisions that you may regret later. These include:
  • The function and character of your new kitchen. Will it need to be "eat-in", a galley, L-shaped or a formal arrangement? Do you entertain regularly?
  • Will your new kitchen plans call for some building work—major or minor? Is this feasible and can you afford it?
  • Can the cost involved be justified, or is it possible that you might be in danger of over-capitalising your property?
Compile a wish list
country kitchen.jpg
Write down all the requirements you have for your new kitchen. Make a scrapbook of pictures from kitchen magazines of styles and features that appeal to you. Also visit as many kitchen showrooms as possible to provide inspiration for any novel features that could be incorporated in your final design so that you can show a company like Arran Construction who can hopefully turn your dream kitchen into a reality.
Select a style which compliments your home and lifestyle
Take care not to design something that clashes with the style of your home or its current décor. Selecting an appropriate style will add to the value of your house. Inappropriate styles can actually have a detrimental effect on a property’s value.
 
Make sure you know the accepted standard sizes of components
Planning around standards will allow you to make the best use of materials and fittings, and it is also easier to produce a workable layout if you are using modular cabinet sizes. As an added bonus, most new appliances you buy should fit into the spaces allowed.
 
Choose appliances first
friends kitchen.jpg
Select the appliances and design your kitchen around them. Take care not to pick appliances which may be too large for the available space, or unsuitable because of the kitchen arrangement. Order the appliances well in advance and have all the technical data available to consult when building them in. Follow the manufacturers' recommendations concerning installation procedures.
 
Points to consider
Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications, or the relevant Standard, concerning appliance installation details and clearances—especially for gas cookers.
  • Ensure wall ovens and fridges are adequately vented.
  • If a fridge will project too far in front of the cabinets, it may be necessary to recess it into the wall behind.
  • Pay particular attention to which side doors of cabinets and appliances open from.
Lighting
Good lighting will make all the difference to your new kitchen. Take the time to work out where concentrated light will be needed for detailed work, and where subdued lighting is preferable, such as over a dining area, for example. 
 

This post contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you. Read our disclaimer

Loading up next...
Stories by email|Subscription
Readers Digest

Launched in 1922, Reader's Digest has built 100 years of trust with a loyal audience and has become the largest circulating magazine in the world

Readers Digest
Reader’s Digest is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards, please contact 0203 289 0940. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit ipso.co.uk