A comprehensive guide covering planning, budgeting, material selection and hiring contractors

Planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation can be a huge task. With so much to consider, planning is paramount to ensure you get the design you dream of. A well-thought-out plan ensures that your renovation remains on budget, runs smoothly and results in a kitchen or bathroom that meets your expectations. Let us take you through some of the important parts of the process.

1 – Planning

Start by evaluating your current kitchen layout and identify what works and what doesn’t. You then need to consider the scope of the project – are you going to refresh what you have or are you going to completely renovate the whole space? Once this is decided, consider the functionality of the space, storage needs and what design style you prefer.

Once you have a vision of what you need, then create a list of products and priorities. Look at the appliances you will need, what extra storage is required, lighting and bench space requirements. Gathering inspiration from kitchen and bathroom showrooms as well as magazines and websites will assist you in your decision making.

2 – Setting a Budget

One of the most important aspects of your planning stage is also working out a budget. This can also help you work out your budget. Keep in mind, it is always wise to allocate 10-20% of your budget to unexpected costs.

Breaking down your budget into categories will also assist in this process. This includes, cabinetry, countertops, appliance, flooring, lighting, plumbing and labour. Getting quotes for these from retailers and industry professionals with different levels of product quality will also allow you to work out where you can splurge or save.

3 – Select your Materials

Knowing what materials are available and their price points can be assisted by visiting your local kitchen and bathroom showroom. An industry professional can also assist you here to ensure your choices work with your aesthetic, lifestyle and budget. 

Cabinetry

Custom cabinets are by far the costliest. However, they do give you the ability to pick the design style as well as the finish that you want. Alternatively, the use of stock cabinets will allow you to get a designer look on a budget. However, you will be limited to the style and the finish you can purchase. We recommend engaging the services of a cabinet maker and kitchen and bathroom designer to assist you in this process.

Countertops

With the recent ban on countertops in Australia that contain Silicia, your choices might seem limited. However, there are a significant array of popular choices and new options available. Granite, quartz, marble and laminate have been proven to stand the test of time. Next generation Silica-free benchtops are leading the way in colour and design options that are also environmentally friendly.

Flooring

Using existing flooring in your house, such as hardwood, for a seamless look will help make your kitchen and bathroom flow from one room to the next. If this isn’t an option, consider tile, vinyl, laminate or hardwood planks. Tile is particularly durable, and colour options are endless. Vinyl is extremely cheap, and some plank products can be easily installed as a DIY job.

Appliances

There is an endless array of appliances available on the market. Consider energy-efficient appliances that will save you on the long-run through lower power bills. Appliances are best to see before purchasing so travelling to your local appliance retail store will be time well spent where you can try and ensure the appropriate options will work with your cooking, cleaning and aesthetic style.

Lighting

Sometimes a missed option, lighting becomes an important aspect of your renovation particularly when your space is quite dark. A mix of ambient, task and accent lighting can create a space that is functional, particularly at night. 

4 – Hiring Contractors

Recommendations go a long way. Put your feelers out to friends, family and the community who have undergone similar projects. Research potential contractors including kitchen and bathroom renovation companies, retailers and cabinet makers and plumbers. It is also important to read reviews and check credentials. 

Overall, by ensuring you choose the right contractors, planning, budgeting and selecting the right materials you can ensure you can transform your kitchen and bathroom space into the heart of your home.