Your guide to planning the perfect kitchen
By Ellie Reeves | 27th August 2024 | 7 min read
Whether you’re revamping your current kitchen or starting from scratch, the right plan can turn your vision into reality. We've pulled together a step-by-step kitchen planning guide to help you from start to finish. From figuring out what you need, to choosing the perfect finishes, and finally, bringing your dream kitchen to life. Let's get started!
1. Take stock of your current kitchen
Before getting into the exciting details like colours and finishes, let’s take a good look at your current kitchen. What works? What drives you up the wall? It’s time to get honest.
How do you use your kitchen?
Function first
Do you whip up family feasts or is your kitchen more of a social hangout? Maybe it’s a bit of both. Think about how you use your space and what needs tweaking. What's frustrating you? Are your utensils always out of reach? Is there a cupboard that seems to swallow everything whole? Make a list of those annoyances and turn them into opportunities for improvement.
Sort your storage
Are you drowning in clutter? Maybe you need more cupboards or larger drawers. Think about adding clever storage solutions, like pull-out shelves or hidden compartments. Trust us, your future self will thank you! Our article, how to organise cupboards and drawers is a great starting point for giving your cabinets a sort out!
Declutter before you design
Now's the time to be ruthless. If you've got gadgets gathering dust or crockery you never use, it might be time to say goodbye. Streamlining your stuff will make the new kitchen feel fresh and more organised.
2. Find your kitchen inspiration
Once you’ve figured out what you need, it’s time to get inspired. Whether you're into sleek modern designs or cosy traditional vibes, the right inspiration will help you nail your style.
Borrow ideas from everywhere
Pinch ideas from friends and family. Seen something you love in a friend’s kitchen? Don’t be shy, ask them where they got it and what they'd do differently. Learn from their experience and use it to shape your dream kitchen.
Home design shows and social media
Get stuck into home design TV programmes, flick through magazines, or scroll through Instagram. Pinterest is brilliant for building mood boards - gather images of layouts, colours, and materials you love. From green to grey, we've got plenty of inspiration on choosing colours for your kitchen.
Try our visualiser tool
Not sure how it’ll all come together? Use our kitchen visualiser to play around with different layouts and finishes. Seeing it all on screen can help you decide what works best.
3. Design your kitchen with confidence
Now comes the exciting part - designing your new kitchen! From layouts to lighting, here's how to create a space that's not just beautiful, but practical too.
Nail your kitchen layout
Ever heard of the kitchen triangle? It’s the ideal arrangement of your sink, hob, and fridge. Keeping these key areas close but not too cramped makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Take a look at our kitchen design ideas for more tips on creating the perfect kitchen layout.
Storage that works
Think beyond basic cupboards. Deep drawers, pull-out larders, and corner units can transform your storage game. The more thoughtful your storage, the tidier and more functional your kitchen will be.
Light it up
Good lighting is key. Mix it up with overhead lights, under-cabinet LEDs, and maybe a statement pendant or two. Not only does it set the mood, but it also makes meal prep a breeze. Check out our kitchen lighting ideas for help on brightening your cooking space!
Choose your appliances
Pick appliances that suit your lifestyle. If you love to cook, invest in top-notch kit. And don't forget energy efficiency - saving on bills is always a win! Take a look at our kitchen appliances buying guide for some advice on picking the right gadgets for your space.
4. Choose your materials and finishes
Now that your layout's sorted, let's talk about materials and finishes. This is where your personality really shines through.
Pick the perfect worktop
Whether you’re after the luxury of quartz or the warmth of wood, pick a worktop that can handle the hustle and bustle of your kitchen. Check out our worktop buying guide for advice and inspiration!
Cabinet finishes
High-gloss or matt? Glossy finishes can make your space feel bigger by reflecting light, while matt creates a refined and contemporary feel. Choose what suits your style. Take a look at our kitchen cabinetry and storage buying guide for some help!
Flooring choices
Your kitchen floor takes a beating, so go for something hard-wearing like tile or luxury vinyl. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between style and practicality. Check out our kitchen flooring ideas for some inspiration.
5. Get ready for installation
With your design in place, it’s time to think about installation. Planning ahead can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.
Coordinate the trades
Moving appliances? Adding lighting? Make sure you’ve got all the right trades lined up. Group similar jobs together to keep things efficient - and to avoid any unwelcome surprises.
Prepare for disruption
Let's be honest, kitchen renovations can be messy. Set up a temporary cooking space and stock up on ready meals - you’ll be glad you did.
Choose your installer
With our installation service, you’re in safe hands. We work with fully vetted and DBS-checked installers, so you can rest easy knowing your kitchen is in good hands. From removing your old kitchen to fitting the new one, we’ve got you covered. Plumbing, gas, electrics - we handle it all. Plus, our 2-year workmanship guarantee means you’re protected long after the last cupboard door is hung.
6. Enjoy your new kitchen!
The hard work’s done. Now it’s time to enjoy your dream kitchen. A few finishing touches will make it feel truly yours.
Finishing touches
Once the dust has settled, it’s time to add those personal touches. A splash of colour, some stylish accessories, or a statement piece of art - these little details make all the difference.
Flexible payment options
We know a new kitchen is a big investment, so we offer flexible payment plans to suit your budget. That way, you can focus on enjoying your new space without any financial stress.
Ready to get started?
Designing a kitchen might seem daunting, but with the right help, it can be a breeze. From initial kitchen planning ideas to final installation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. So why wait? Book a kitchen planning appointment today. Let’s make your dream kitchen a reality!
