The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the home, especially during the colder seasons when many foods and drinks are prepared to protect themselves from the cold. Also, the style of the kitchen has changed drastically over the years. Even more significant is how we are now using the space for cooking. This has forced us to review how we think about the designs and functions of our kitchen.
Kitchen renovations don’t necessarily have to take a lot of time or cost a lot. If you don’t have the time or budget to carry out a complete renovation, from the kitchen floor to the ceiling, you can avoid all that unnecessary work. There are plenty of cheap and easy things you could do yourself.
Before you start your DIY kitchen remodel, you may want to think about the following aspects:
What is your vision of the kitchen?
The main goal of a practical kitchen design has traditionally been focused on the design of the work triangle. This was typically where the stove (oven), sink, and refrigerator made the three points of a triangle.
Although the triangle principle still works, those days of hiding the kitchen in the back of your house are long gone. Today, open plan living layouts mean the kitchen is more likely to be the focal point of the home where family members converge.
Before you start your renovation, seriously consider the key features you have in the kitchen. Also consider the key activities you would be involved in while in the kitchen, what appliances you use and how they are used.
carry out your research
Reputable home and lifestyle magazines will provide you with great inspirational kitchen remodeling ideas. Also, when shopping for products and supplies for your renovation project, check out the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) website, as it offers practical advice on the quality and prices of many household products.
Schedule renewal correctly
Regardless of how large or small the renovation project is, it is essential that you plan well in advance and dedicate yourself to completing the renovation work. This not only ensures that the job actually gets done, but also that the desired results are achieved based on your initial vision.
Before you start your project, please confirm with your local authorities whether such a renovation may require specific approvals or permits in accordance with the requirements of the Australian Building Code.
Seek professional help when needed
When designing or renovating any part of your home, you will be required to comply with various government regulations. Key among these is the Australian Standard/New Zealand Standard 4386 for Domestic Kitchen Fittings.
Some of the things you are renewing may need to meet specific government requirements. For this reason, you may need professional assistance from an electrician for wiring or a plumber for kitchen sink plumbing.
Be patient and wise
Home renovations can be time consuming, so it’s essential that you remain patient, focused and faithful to your kitchen vision.
In the renovation process, if you are replacing some old kitchen products with new ones, you can opt for more sustainable options. For example, when you install items like faucet timers and energy-efficient lighting, you’ll greatly reduce the amount of water used and also lower your energy bills, respectively.