There are many things to consider when planning your new kitchen. Follow our quick guide to ensure you’ve covered the Top 5 key planning considerations:
1. Think about the way you cook: When selecting your appliances and arranging the layout of your kitchen, consider your particular style of cooking and plan accordingly. For example, if you do a lot of entertaining, a warming drawer would be handy, as well as an extra deep fridge for prepared platters.
2. Storage: Consider where you will be storing each particular item and label each cabinet on your drawings. Labels to use include: Dinnerware, Servingware, Glassware, Tea Sets, Cutlery, Utensils, Spices, Cleaning, Food Storage (Perishables & Non – Perishables), Cling Wraps & Foils, Tea Towels, Cookware (Pots & Pans, Baking Trays & Dishes, etc), Tupperware, etc.
3. Walk it out: Create a ‘mock kitchen’ – using your measurements, mark out where your cabinets and appliances will be using masking tape on your floor. Re-create everyday scenarios (such as: “I’m making coffee”, “I’m making toast”, or “I’m cooking my favourite meal”) and walk it out! You’ll experience the time and effort in a) gathering all your ingredients and necessities and b) actually performing this task. If it’s taking too long or doesn’t feel comfortable, you may have some re-planning ahead of you!
4. Measure twice, cut once: Triple check ALL measurements! Important measurements to consider are:
- Ensure your new kitchen will actually fit the space
- Ensure that the heights of your benchtops, overhead cabinets and appliances (such as wall ovens) are not too high or too low
- Check that your new kitchen will not be covering any windows or doorways
- Ensure all cupboards, drawers and appliances have enough space to open comfortably and safely
- Ensure all Australian Standards are met in terms of clearances around cooktops, etc.
- Ensure all manufacturer’s installation guidelines are adhered to when installing appliances
- If your cabinets will be running all the way up to the ceiling, ensure you have the exact ceiling height noted
5. Colour Schemes: Select a colour scheme that suits your personality and home. A good rule of thumb here is to start from the ground up: select your flooring and then work your way up to kickboards, cabinets, benchtop, splashback, overhead cabinets, wall paints, etc. For more inspiration, view our Top 5 Timeless Kitchen Colour Schemes.
