PLANNING FOR A KITCHEN RENOVATION
Planning a kitchen renovation is exciting but can also be a significant upheaval.
Here at Ridgeway Interiors, we do our best to guide you through the process from start to finish to ensure it is as seamless as possible. It all starts with being well-organised about what to expect and what you can do to help things run smoothly.
Here are some things to think over as you embark on this journey.
Your Kitchen Renovation Budget
Setting a realistic budget is the first step in planning your kitchen renovation. Understanding your financial limits will steer your decisions and conversations with your kitchen designer.
Being transparent about your budget ensures you maximise your investment. Remember to include additional costs like building work, plumbing, electrical work, plastering, flooring, and painting, as these can accumulate quickly and affect your total budget. At Ridgeway, we're transparent with our pricing, and you'll receive a full quote of everything included in the final price so that there are no nasty surprises.
Structural Changes
Consider whether structural changes to your room, like knocking down a wall, could improve your space and kitchen design. Speaking with us early on in the process can help you navigate these requirements; we can even mock up a view of what your space might look like if you knocked down a particular wall to help you decide. We can make all of these structural changes for you before we fit your kitchen.
The Fun Bit
Next, it's time for the fun bit: deciding what kitchen you want. This is your chance to spend some time browsing the internet for inspiration, whether that be on Instagram, Pinterest, Kitchen Retailer project pages or a good old-fashioned home magazine. Note the things you like and save pictures, too; this will help your kitchen designer to visualise your ideas.
Creating Your Kitchen Wishlist
Write up your kitchen wish list. If you need help on this, check out our blog, Creating A Kitchen Wishlist, which has all the essential questions you need to consider and note down. Break these answers down into must-haves and nice-to-haves. This list will assist your kitchen designer in prioritising your needs within your budget, ensuring that the essentials are addressed first.
Finding a Reliable Kitchen Company
Selecting the right kitchen company is crucial. Independent retailers typically offer higher-quality kitchens and superior customer service compared to larger chains. They provide personalised attention and quicker responses to inquiries. Review their Google reviews and past projects to assess their reliability and quality of work.
Visiting Their Showroom
Before finalising any decisions, visit their kitchen showroom to view designs in person and meet the team. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and evaluate the quality and style of their work. When ready, schedule a design consultation to discuss your ideas in detail.
Get Clued Up On Timeframes
During your design consultation, inquire about the project timeline. Knowing when the work will start and finish helps you plan accordingly and manage expectations, ensuring that disruptions to your daily life are minimised.
Preparing for Installation
As the renovation date approaches, begin decluttering your current kitchen. Dispose of unused or expired items and set up a temporary kitchen space to prepare simple meals and drinks. This is a great time to utilise small kitchen appliances like an air fryer. Plan meals that don't require a fully operational kitchen to ease the transition. When the renovation is imminent, pack up your kitchen belongings and store them safely until the work is complete.
Remember that kitchen renovations involve a lot of activity in your home, with tools and noise creating some disruption. Consider the impact on small children, pets, and anyone who might be working from home during this period.
Planning a kitchen renovation requires careful consideration of various factors, from budgeting to selecting the right kitchen company. Following these steps can ensure a successful remodel that meets your needs and enhances your home.
For expert advice and high-quality kitchen designs, visit a Ridgeway Interiors showroom and start your journey.
