Renovating a kitchen is a huge undertaking. It takes strategy, commitment, patience and ofcourse a monetary investment. According to the Bureau of Statistics, over 50% of Australians plan on renovating their home in the future. If you are one of the millions planning a change, you need to ensure you have thought of everything before you begin. 

By setting yourself up properly, with a clear plan in mind you can definitely save stress, time and money. Before you start thinking about ripping out cupboards or shopping for appliances, you should ask yourself some basic questions to get a sense of your priorities. 

In this month’s B&C Journal we give you a little food for thought, by compiling a list of questions we see clients missing time and time again. We hope these 8 essential questions will help provide you with the foundation you need to start planning your next kitchen renovation. Enjoy!

Robert Fonti

Director, Balnei & Colina

Balnei & Colina Kitchen Renovation - Bonnet Bay, Sydney

1. Do you plan to live in the house for at least a few more years or are you listing?

This is a very crucial question and one that tops our list. Unless you are about to put your property on the market in the next one to two years, any kitchen upgrades should be completed with your personal lifestyle in mind. There is no point in investing significant amounts of money in kitchen renovations for a potential sale if you don't intend to do so anytime soon. 

 

Image credit: @blackard_modernfarmhouse

2. Kitchen GOALS - What would you like your kitchen reno to accomplish?

You need to know what you want to achieve from both an aesthetic as well and functional point of view.

Before sitting with a kitchen design consultant you should have a basic idea of your dream kitchen. Inspiration can come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it is Pintrest, your neighbor’s kitchen renovation or even your existing kitchen setup, there is always inspiration to be found.

It’s important to determine what things you want to achieve from your new design. As a starting point make a list of things you don’t like about your current kitchen and it’s limitations. 

The needs of homeowners have changed over time, from more intelligent kitchen layouts that create space and maximise storage, to smart appliances that will have you making a meal in record time. Gather design inspiration from anywhere you can and then ask yourself if that strategy is right for you or needed for your dream kitchen.

At Balnei & Colina kitchen renovations we believe most kitchen usage desires cover three key areas: 

1. Greater functionality - intelligent kitchen design with kitchen cabinet configurations that maximise storage and increase available work space
2. Multifunctional Layout  - kitchen spaces that support more than one activity such as entertaining, dining or homework/study
3. Innovative Equipment - more efficient appliances that support an easy and comfortable kitchen working environment.

 

Image credit: @kirsten_kgdesigns

3. Is your new kitchen design and theme in sync with the architectural style of your home?

While it’s a good idea to be aware of the latest renovation trends, it’s even better to ensure that they are correctly implemented and in keeping with your existing home aesthetic. You want your new kitchen to look updated, modern and work cohesively with your remaining home. So, if the rest of your home has a classic design theme, it's best to add features with the same aesthetic to your kitchen as well.

 

Image credit: M House Developement

4. What is your kitchen renovation budget?

Another important question to ask is “how much am I willing to invest?” It is imperative to plan wisely and devise a budget from the outset for your kitchen renovation.

A budget keeps kitchen designers, contractors and homeowners on an even keel to ensure their kitchen renovation aspirations are not getting larger than their pockets. 

A budget will ensure you stay within your means when it comes to your kitchen renovation.  Before you pick up a phone to dial a kitchen contractor, pick up a pencil and calculator first.

 

Image Credit: Maree Homer Photography

5. Do you need additional storage space?

When it comes to storage space in a kitchen, it’s always good to have more rather than less. So when you are renovating, take stock of how much storage space you have and how much you need to keep everything well-organized in the future. When there is a properly-designated space for everything, it helps reduce clutter and keeps you organised.

A Balnei & Colina kitchen designer can provide ideas and plans for smart storage solutions for your custom kitchen renovation.

 

Balnei & Colina Kitchen Renovation Oatley Sydney

6. What Kind of Kitchen Do You Need?

Don’t start a kitchen renovation without defining the purpose of your kitchen. Are you a busy individual who doesn’t cook much at home? Then you need a small, functional kitchen for when you do.

Are you a family with kids who love home-cooked meals and lunch bags? Then you need a kitchen meant for frequent use, with durable materials, tons of storage, and high-quality appliances.

7. Is your kitchen practical to use?

Just as aesthetics are important, it’s equally important to have a kitchen space that's comfortable and practical for daily use. If there are any new features you want or some placement you wish to alter, this is the time to do it.

 

Kitchen Renovation Putney Sydney by Balnei & Colina

8. Are you hiring the right contractor?

Many homeowners are enthusiastic about kitchen renovation only to give up when things get difficult. Unless you’re a kitchen renovation expert, leave the hard work to the kitchen renovation professionals like the team at Balnei & Colina.

Engaging a kitchen renovation specialist is well worth the investment as it will save you time and money in the long run. Look for a company with the right credentials and well as evidence of successfully completed renovation projects. Hiring a sub-standard contractor or even attempting a DIY project can go wrong easily, often with disastrous consequences, and requiring a substantial investment to fix costly mistakes. 

It's essential to hire skilled and experienced professionals for your kitchen renovation project. The team at Balnei & Colina offer customised kitchen renovations, bathroom renovation and custom joinery solutions. With over 20 years experience, and over 3000 happy customers, you can trust the team at Balnei & Colina to design and deliver your dream kitchen on time and within budget.

Need help planning your next kitchen renovation? Book a design consultation with a Balnei & Colina kitchen renovation expert today on 1300 450 320. You can also send us your project details via this Contact Us form. 

To stay up to date with the latest kitchen design trends connect with us via Facebook and Instagram or signup to our newsletter.

 

Image Credit: Chris Warnes Photography