There’s a reason kitchens are the beating heart of homes! They are one of the most social spaces where you spend the majority of your time – whether you’re cooking, cleaning, entertaining, or making a good old cup of tea!
A kitchen is also considered one of the biggest selling points of a house, so it’s important to get the design right. A well-designed kitchen will be more enjoyable for you, your family - and future buyers!
5 Tips to Improve Your Kitchen Layout
If you’re renovating your kitchen, here’s how to design a kitchen you love being in.
1. Create a Wishlist
The first step to designing your dream kitchen is to create a wish list. Write down all your wants and desires for your brand-new cooking space. Think about things like:
- Appliances
- Lighting
- Cupboard designs
- Colour schemes
- Flooring
- Seating
2. Set a Budget
Before you undertake any home renovation project, it’s always a good idea to set your budget. Now you know what’s on your wish list, it’s time to decide how much you’re willing to spend on your dream kitchen.
Think about things like how long you’ll get to enjoy your new kitchen and what the resale potential is. Consider whether it’ll be worth the investment in terms of added value to your property – taking into account how long it might be until you sell! If you’ll be moving in the next one or two years, you may decide to set a lower budget than if you’re staying another 10+ years.
3. Prioritise
It’s always good to have a wish list. But now that you also know your budget, it’s time to prioritise. Split your wishlist into two columns – a 'must have' column and a ‘nice-to-have’ column – and organise your dreams accordingly.
This practice will help you decide what you truly want and what you’re willing to sacrifice if it’s not within your budget.
4. Measure Up
To help you refine your priorities even further, it’s time to measure your space. When you know how much space you’re working with, you can start researching how big things in your kitchen need to be. For example, what’s the perfect central island size? How big is the traditional range cooker you want to have?
If you find it easier, ask an expert to measure your space for you to let you know what is and isn’t possible.
5. Visualise
The next step in designing your dream kitchen is to visualise! Draw up your design ideas on paper or use an online tool to create a virtual plan.
Consider things like:
- How much space you’ll have to prepare and serve dinner
- How many people can fit in the kitchen
- Whether the worktop space is large enough for all of your appliances
When you have a few designs you like, take it one step further and lay them out to scale using masking tape in your garden or living room. By seeing your design to scale, you’ll have a better idea about whether the new design is right for you.
Thinking of Selling Your Property in Northampton & Rugby?
If you’re renovating your Northampton & Rugby home in preparation for a sale, we’d love to talk! Our friendly team at Horts are experts in valuing homes in Northampton & Rugby, and we can offer advice on what renovations will add the most value.
Call us today for a chat on 01788 550044 or 01604 639933 or email rugby@horts.co.uk or northampton@horts.co.uk
You may also be interested to read Will Renovating my bathroom Add Value to my Property?
and How to Add Value to My Home: Garage Conversions
Frequently Asked Questions About Storage Space, Living Space, and Kitchen Space
I have a small kitchen. How can I maximise storage space?
Consider using vertical space! Install wall units that reach the ceiling and explore pull-out drawers for easy access to cookware and utensils.
My kitchen feels dark. How can I improve natural light?
An interior designer can advise on optimising natural light. Consider translucent blinds and maximise window space when possible.
I want an open-plan kitchen/dining space. Is this a good idea?
Open-plan is great for entertaining! Ensure there's enough space for a dining table & consider using a central kitchen island to separate the areas.
Do I need a kitchen designer to create my dream kitchen?
Not necessarily, but a kitchen designer can help with layout and choosing the right worktop materials and cabinet doors to suit your cooking style and personal style.
