What to consider when renovating a kitchen
Layout, installations and materials: the decisions worth making first.
In this article
Renovating a kitchen involves many decisions, and some of them shape all the others. Taken in the right order, the rest falls into place. These are the ones to settle first.
1. The layout
Before looking at colours, think about how you use the kitchen: where you cook, prepare and wash up. The distance between sink, hob and fridge decides whether the kitchen is comfortable or not.
- Do you keep the current layout or change it?
- How much worktop do you really need?
- Is there room for an island or peninsula without blocking the way?
2. The installations
Moving the sink or the hob means moving water points, drains or electrical lines. It can be done, but it changes the budget and sometimes needs a licensed installer. Gas always does.
Tip
If you keep the connections where they are, the renovation is quicker and cheaper. Often it is enough to change the units, worktop and appliances.
3. The units
Modular kitchens such as IKEA or Leroy Merlin give a good result on a tight budget, as long as they are measured well and assembled with care. Check the height of the wall units, the space for each appliance and the room needed to open doors and drawers.
4. The worktop
It is what you notice most and what works hardest. Laminate is affordable and easy to cut; wood is warm but needs care; stone and quartz are tough, but they are measured and cut by a stonemason after the units are fitted.
We'll help you define the scope of your renovation and prepare a clear quote.
5. The appliances
Choose the models before finalising the design: every integrated oven, hob or dishwasher has its own cut-out sizes. Also check the power of the hob and whether your electrical installation can take it.
6. The order of work
The usual order is: building work and installations first, then floor and walls, then unit assembly, worktop and, finally, appliances and finishing touches. Skipping steps usually costs time.
Before asking for a quote
- Layout decided and measurements taken
- Know whether water, power or gas points move
- Units and appliances chosen, or a guide model
- Worktop type decided
- The shop’s plan and photos of the space to hand
Founder of OSTEZA. I assemble kitchens and furniture, organise moves and coordinate the professionals on each job on the Costa Blanca. I write about what I see in homes every week.