Good timing
Easter isn’t just the perfect time for hot cross buns, chocolate and kicking back, it’s also a great time to plan for a new kitchen.
Be decisive
It is a big job but there is no need to feel daunted by it. The first thing to do when planning for a new kitchen over Easter is to have a clear picture of what you want. This is not a time to be wishy-washy.
Dream large
To get you started, why not dream a little? What does your ideal kitchen look like? Is it a space you’ve seen elsewhere and want to replicate in your home? Is it a kitchen you’ve always wanted because you adore cooking or socialising? Or do you see it as the space in your home to gather loved ones every day and you want to maximise its potential? Your answer may involve one of these or a combination. That’s fine.
Size the joint
The next step is to have a clear idea about how big your kitchen is. After all, you will want to fit in lots of useful things in it such as a stove, dishwasher, fridge, cabinets, drawers and shelves. Also work out practical elements too such as where power points are, gas outlets, water and waste pipes as well as entrances and exits.
Storage matters
Remember also to think about storage now – this is where you need to maximise the space – as it’s easy to think you’ve got enough storage in your plans. Aim for more than you think you’ll need as this is the moment to capitalise on increasing your kitchen storage space potential.
How will it be used
At this point you really need to make a decision about how you envisage the kitchen being used. Write down what its daily primary uses will be and for how many people. Bring in the idea of a “kitchen triangle” – sketch a diagram of the room’s three work centres – the stove, the sink, and the fridge. Aim for them to be about 1200mm away from each other.
Money talks
Now it’s crunch time. Work out what your budget is and whether there is any wriggle room. Determine whether this is the time for a brand new kitchen with the lot or a renovation on cabinets, appliances, flooring, splashbacks and countertops or something more modest.
Talk to the experts
Once you’ve got a plan and a budget (and you’ve polished off those hot cross buns!) speak to us about your choice of materials, colours, designs, innovations and any concerns or questions you might have about plans for your new kitchen or renovation. Just think: in a year’s time you could be enjoying that Easter break in the best room in the house!
If you’ve been inspired to incorporate some of these planning ideas for your new kitchen and need expert advice, read more about how to do this at www.aplan.com.au.