In short: A comfortable kitchen starts with the layout: sink, hob and fridge close to each other with enough worktop between them. Add more sockets than you think you need and separate lighting above the worktop. Pipes and wiring are done before ordering the units.
The kitchen is the most-used room in the home. Beautiful units alone don't make a kitchen practical – what matters is how the sink, hob, fridge and worktop are arranged, and whether sockets and lighting are where you need them.
Sink, hob and fridge
Most movement in a kitchen happens between these three. It's best when they're reasonably close to each other, but not side by side: there should be worktop between the sink and hob for preparing food.
Worktop
You can never have too much worktop. Think about where the kettle, coffee machine and other everyday appliances will go, so there's still free space for cooking.
Sockets and lighting
You need more sockets than you'd think – above the worktop, on the island, for appliances. The worktop should have its own lighting, such as an LED strip under the wall cabinets, because the ceiling light is behind you while you work.
Storage
Floor-to-ceiling cabinets hold a lot and don't collect dust on top. Deep drawers in the base units are more convenient than shelves, as everything is within reach in one movement.
Pipes and electrics before the units
If the sink or hob moves to a new place, the pipes need relocating and a new supply cable may be needed for the hob before the units are ordered. That's why a kitchen renovation follows the right order: plan, demolition, electrics and plumbing, walls and floor, and only then the units and appliances.
Splashback
The splashback must be easy to clean. Tiles, glass or the same material as the worktop are common. Choose it together with the worktop so they match.
Frequently asked questions
In what order does a kitchen renovation go?
Plan, demolition, wiring and pipes, walls and floor, and only then units and appliances.
Can the sink be moved?
Yes, but the pipes must be moved before ordering the units. During the inspection we'll see where it's possible.
What works for a splashback?
Tiles, glass or the same material as the worktop are common. The main thing is that it's easy to clean.
See the kitchen we made for the Tammenurme house, and read more about kitchen renovation. Quotes are free – send a request.
