KITCHEN RENOVATION TIPS

Kitchens are the heart of a home. This is where we spend most of our time making food, entertaining guests and socialising with those close to us. It is also a room that cannot be renovated constantly, annual impulse updates are not affordable or practical.

If you’re looking to renovate your kitchen and for the know how to getting it right the first time, Arnold Jardim, managing director of bespoke cabinetry company, Dezign A Door, shares how to plan and execute a kitchen makeover and still make sure you get the best value for money without cutting corners and quality.

Keep Your Skeletons

‘If your kitchen cupboard carcasses are still in a good nick consider simply changing the doors, reworking your colour scheme and fitting funky new handles.  You can even do the installation yourself. Installing doors doesn’t require that you have a degree in DIY – it’s actually quite simple,’ said Jardim.

Should you decide to simply replace the doors – it’s a good idea to take the old ones in to ensure the dimensions for the new doors are 100% accurate.

Although you might be trying to keep costs down – be sure you don’t cut costs when it comes to your hardware. Only use high quality runners and hinges; they work hard and if the average lifespan of a kitchen is 15 odd years – you want these parts to last.

Jardim’s advice on hardware is to purchase a quality hinges, including a baseplate with either 8mm grommets or euro screws as they won’t pull loose or rip out of the carcass sides as easily as the cheaper alternatives.

He added that the modern hinges allow for up to 3mm adjustment – up and down – in and out and.  ‘It’s advisable to get your door supplier to pre-drill the hinge holes though so enquire about this service. Handle positioning is a personal choice – so this must be done on site.’

Door to Drawer Ratios

If your current kitchen isn’t outfitted with many drawers Jardim says that before you begin your kitchen makeover – review the door-drawer ratio.

“While it’s all about personal preference – it goes without saying – drawers are much more practical and it’s advisable to have as much as 60% of your floor units as drawers. With cupboards, you have to get on your knees to look for items stored at the back – while drawers provide access to the contents without having to unpack them first.”

Doors in Vogue vs Personal Preferences

‘When selecting your new doors – go for styles that are timeless yet classy. A Venice Semi-Solid Door – also known as a shaker door – is a good option that’s ageless and will have widespread appeal. This look works in both a natural wood finish and a painted MDF (medium density fibreboard) option,’ said Jardim.

Adding to this he says that one of the most popular cupboard choices currently is doors with integrated handles – or handle-less options.

Focal Features

Another way to add something to this room that’s very on trend – is to commission just one central feature like a statement island. You could use granite on the island and a cheaper timber or laminate for the other counters.

Final Effects

A kitchen can also be transformed by adding a coat of fresh paint to the walls – an accent wall goes a long way towards a new look without a hefty price tag. You can also consider introducing a new splash back with a funky tile to mix things up.

For more advice on DIY door makeovers follow Dezign A Door on Facebook.