As a bespoke kitchen company, a high percentage of the kitchens we design follow a build or renovation project. When it comes to adding all round value to our properties and our lives there is nothing quite as rewarding as renovating the heart of the home.
There are a number of ways a kitchen space can be improved; walls can be opened out to create a connection to the garden or dining room. An extension can be added to provide more space or a complete rip out and redesign can be undertaken within the existing space.
In all cases when you intend on working with a bespoke kitchen company there are a number of points that need to be considered to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
1. A Floor Plan
This is without doubt the single most important factor and needs to be considered and agreed before prior to commencing any works. If you are using an architect for your renovation plans it is likely that they will provide you with a rough layout, but ultimately you will need you kitchen designer to supply you with the final furniture layout, which most importantly will include services positions.
One of the biggest mistakes we see on a regular basis is the location of extraction, especially with the latest downdraft extraction on kitchen islands. The ducting for extraction needs to be part of the ground works and once installed it is very hard to change and consequently the whole kitchen is dictated by this position. Rarely do we see extraction correctly located unless it is part of the kitchen furniture package which is why at Papilio we insist upon supplying full services drawings for the kitchen.
2. Have a Budget
A bespoke kitchen is a serious investment so it’s important that budgets are agreed from the outset. Our bespoke kitchens start at £20k, this excludes appliances and worktops, but for this you get a completely unique kitchen that will wow anyone who sees it. The cost of appliance and worktops can vary greatly, but your knowledgeable kitchen designer will be able to steer you in the direction for your budget. The easiest and most stress-free projects occur when a client has a considered budget to achieve what they ultimately desire.
3. Know what you want
An architect or kitchens designer effectiveness relies on a good brief. Take your time considering the space and what YOU want from it. We often point clients towards Pinterest as a starting point to discover what they truly desire from a bespoke kitchen.
Who uses the space? How do you use it? How would you want to use it? What are your social habits? Do you have any special requirements? Are there any preferences towards style and colour? What are your likes and dislikes?
4. Liaise with your Architect or kitchens Designer
If you intend on extending or opening up a space, then an architect will most likely be required, but it would still be advisable to include your bespoke kitchen company in discussion at this early stage too. We are very accustomed to working with Architects and in general we find that they are very welcoming of our furniture design skills and knowledge.
5. Team Work
Projects are a lot simpler if the chosen architect, kitchens Designer and builder are engaged prior to any work commencing, the designs from Architect and Kitchen design will cross over as will the building works and kitchen services requirements, if we are all talking the process will be an efficient one.
Its important that everyone is kept upto date with changes as potential complications are addressed from the outset. A good designer will be flexible and will work in any changes, problem shooting as they go.
6. Project Management
Decide who will project manage, instruct your architect, kitchen designer, builder or do it personally.
From experience its always better to have one person overseeing the whole process, instructing all parties. Make this decision based on who you think understands the budget and brief to the fullest extent.
