Before renovating a kitchen, define how you use it, confirm the scope and budget, coordinate appliances with the layout, and agree on technical responsibilities. Review real quotations and availability before ordering cabinets or scheduling demolition.
Write down the daily frustrations
Describe what is inconvenient about cooking, cleaning, unpacking groceries and sharing the room. List the equipment you use and the storage it needs. Include activities that are not cooking, such as homework or entertaining, if they genuinely belong in the space.
Set the project’s boundary
Are you replacing finishes, changing cabinets, moving services or opening the kitchen to another room? Confirm which professionals are needed to assess the changes. Make the budget consistent with the proposed scope and identify items that are outside the quotation.
Coordinate appliances and cabinetry
Select the intended appliance models in time for their requirements to inform the cabinet plan. Confirm dimensions, door clearances, ventilation and installation requirements with the relevant suppliers and professionals. Decide who verifies the final fabrication measurements.
Review samples together
Consider cabinet finish, counter, backsplash, flooring, lighting and hardware as a group. Test the samples in the actual space where possible. Ask suppliers about current suitability, maintenance and installation requirements; a photograph cannot show all of those properties.
Prepare for the construction period
Ask about sequencing, delivery checks, dust protection, waste removal and a temporary place to prepare food. Confirm how unexpected conditions and changes are priced and approved. Keep the list of final decisions available to everyone who needs it.
- Approved dimensions and specifications.
- Current quotations and exclusions.
- Product availability and delivery responsibilities.
- Required approvals and professional appointments.
- Change approval and communication process.
Questions, answered.
Should I order cabinets before choosing appliances?
Finalize the relevant appliance specifications before the cabinet order is approved. Their dimensions and installation requirements can affect cabinetry and services.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
The schedule depends on design scope, approvals, existing conditions, trade availability and products. Ask the actual project team for a sequenced programme and identify what must happen before work starts.