Renovating your kitchen can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are inexperienced in the space. Given the cost of renovating has been skyrocketing, it is wise to do extensive research on the renovation process to make sure you are covered and within budget. To ease your pain, we have complied a very practical list before of the items people tend to miss when building their new kitchen, so you can have a thorough review with your cabinet maker before ordering your kitchen.
1. Your walls aren't square and will never be. Don't expect your cabinets to fit perfectly. Plan for fillers when needed.
2. A rule of thumb is to add 25mm (1'') to each side of a freestanding cabinet to allow for finished face panels. If the cabinet is hard up against a wall, at an intersection, add 50mm (2'') for fill strips or handle relief.
3. Research on kitchen hardwares. There are various options that can solve your design flaws (pocket door, double stack racks, dead corner racks, etc). No cabinet maker will care about your pain as much as you do, so take matters into your own hand.
4. When planning your kitchen, plan your design around stone manufacturer's length. This can help you avoid seams in your benchtops and minimise wastage.
5. Avoid SMEG if you can. They are crap.
6. This seems obvious but be aware of what your cabinet doors run into when they are open.
7. Do NOT do deep pantry shelves. Food will disappear.
8. Plan space for 3 bins: regular rubbish, recycle and greens. Many people only planned for two and end up with green bin forever residing on their benchtop.
9. You can never have enough drawers and powerpoints
10. Do genuine solid brass handles if you want a lasting, low maintenance finish