2023 is finally here, and with many of us looking hopefully into the future, some homeowners are craving a renovation superstorm. But how do you plan for a renovation, and where do you start? Cowan Building has all the answers.

'Tis the season for renovations! Home improvement has seen a massive boost since many of us were forced behind closed doors during the recent pandemic. For some, choosing to renovate is a simple process, while others struggle with what we should do first or where to best start. In this blog series, Cowan Building explores what you should think of first when it comes to home renovations.

How To Plan a Kitchen Renovation

Kitchens and bathroom renovations are always at the top of the list for most homeowners. However, contemplating a few crucial questions is the key to any successful kitchen renovation.

1.     What do I like about the existing space? 

Write down all the things you like about this space. It could be the easily accessible cupboards, the large pantry, how the space flows into the adjoining room, or the ample natural light in the space. Looking at what you like about the area can give you a clear picture of what you need to keep, what you should expand on, and, more importantly - what needs changing. 

2.     What Don't I Like About the Kitchen?

Once you explore what you do like, it can become pronounced what you don't like. This can help you refine exactly what you expect from your new kitchen and allow you to focus on the functionality aspect of the design. Bringing the atheistic qualities is easy, but putting functionality at the forefront of your concept will ensure your kitchen will look incredible and be a joy to cook in.

3.     Does The Space Need to be Multi-Functional? 

In today's busy world, many do more than just cook in our kitchens. If you have children, this could mean homework stations on island benches or even a wee nook for office work. Allowing this to be considered early on will save you money (as it's always best to start with the ''needs'' of your kitchen early on – cue the electricals), but, again, it will increase the space's functionality and overall performance.

4.     What Tech do I Want To Utilise?

This can be vitally important before you start any renovation. How much tech do you need in your kitchen? This can be USB hidden charging points, additional power outlets for iPads, other appliances, or charging points. Or perhaps you are sick of the cold feet on the floor during winter and high on the priority list is underfloor heating options. With the kitchen being the hub of the home, tech is quickly encroaching into these spaces. Adding extra power points, USB charging outlets, and hidden tech features can help the zone shine.

What is the Best Way to Design a Kitchen

With all kitchens having a professional come and help early on can open your eyes to the improvement you can get from your existing kitchen design. A professional kitchen designer can literally flip your kitchen and take full advantage of your available space. With a trained eye, the options can be limitless, from removing walls and expanding the area into adjoining rooms to completely relocating the entire kitchen.

How To Plan a Bathroom Renovation

Water water everywhere! Who doesn’t like the idea of a fresh new bathroom for 2023? With so many new and improved bathroom design options, it can leave many feeling slightly overwhelmed with the choices they have available with their new bathroom concept. Some questions to ponder:

1.     Bath? Shower or Both?

If you have children having a bath is likely at the top of your priority list. It is also a tremendous advantage from a sales point of view. However, if you are not much of a soaker, an impressive shower room/wet room is the way forward. The main focus, particularly if you are not renovating for sale, is to consider what you expect from the space. A relaxing spa experience with a stunning bath as the focal point? Or a high-spec shower room to wash the day's worries away. Like with your kitchen space – assessing what you want in terms of functionality is vital, then you can build your theme around this concept. 

2.     How Much Storage Do I Need?

Regarding bathrooms, your needed storage should be considered early on in your design proposal. Many homeowners have adjoining linin cupboards close to their bathrooms, while others will need a good amount of storage for towels and other bathroom linen in the actual space. If the room is shared between a few family members also consider large vanity drawer systems that can keep all those necessary items neatly tucked away. Storage is important. Nothing is worse than discovering you have underestimated this aspect to be left with a brand-new bathroom full of clutter. If you're tight for space, consider floor-to-ceiling storage options. These can create the conception of height while offering ample storage.

3.     How Much Space Do I Have?

Clever design can improve any bathroom space. If you are lucky enough to have ample room in your bathroom, a good designer can ensure this area is utilised perfectly while ensuring it doesn’t look too vast and sterile. Adding focal points and a touch of texture through warm wooden features and darker colours can make larger bathrooms inviting and luxurious. At the same time, bright white smaller areas and clever storage/shower/bath options can open the site and create an illusion of space. 

Things To Consider With Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations

Understanding the essential functional aspects of the kitchen or bathroom you want to create is critical. Of course, making a new space beautiful is easy, but ensuring your kitchen or bathroom is working for your unique needs will ensure your investment stands the test of time and continues to work in flow with your lifestyle. 

For some, this could be ensuring the kitchen can quickly switch from the daily grind to an entertainer’s dream or a bathroom that can allow mum and dad to unwind yet cope with the onslaught of children – cue the overflow of bubbles! 

The fantastic news is this can be easily achieved with the right advice. For example, creative lighting options can transform a bathroom from a child's bathroom into a spa experience while hidden kitchen features and butlers pantries can allow you to entertain many, while not upsetting the day-to-day operations of your kitchen. Choosing the correct fittings and fixtures can also allow areas to open and entice the eye to focal points that create an element of space and airiness. 

Needing advice on your new kitchen or bathroom project? Cowan Building is here to help!