How to prepare for a kitchen renovation.
Renovating, whilst exciting and fun for the Retreat Design team, can be overwhelming for home owners. Making way for a new kitchen can be messy and time consuming so we’ve put together some of the essential steps to take prior and during the renovation.
GET TO KNOW THE PROJECT TIMELINE
Have thorough and open conversations with your project manager about the expected timeline of the project. Discuss logistics of the process such as where the skip will be placed and how the tradespeople will move through the house. Ask as many questions as you can to prepare yourself for the weeks ahead.
CLEAR & PACK THE KITCHEN
Clear out the existing kitchen. Sort and pack all the existing items and donate or sell the products which you will not be needing for the new space. Get rid of broken, unused and outdated items. Pack a box of essentials which you will need for a makeshift kitchen in the interim. Consider any items you may want to keep or sell from the demolition phase. Eg. Light fixtures, ovens, built in appliances. You may be able to sell these for some extra cash.
TEMPORARY KITCHEN
During construction, set up a secondary kitchen to help minimise stress and keep things functional. If you are planning on living in the home during the renovation you will need a temporary kitchen with access to a sink, bin and enough space for a portable cooker, microwave and small fridge. Other items you may wish to set up include kettle, toaster and coffee machine. Many people utilise the laundry or outdoor kitchen if available during this time. It may help to make a menu plan with ideas for simple meals that can be easily prepared with the least amount of pots, pans and plates to be used.
CLEAR A PATH
To prepare for a kitchen remodel, you will also want to move personal items that might block contractors when they enter or exit your home. Remove valuable art, photo frames and furniture. Dust is a part of the construction process, so take measures to protect items from dust. Cover furniture with protective plastic or move items to the garage or storage. Consider the easiest way for contractors to access the space with large door openings and less stairs if possible.
MAKE PLANS FOR PETS
Your dog or cat may need to be relocated for the safety of the construction team and themselves. Close off zones in the house so your pet can stay in a separate area with access to their food and water bowls. If this is not possible consider having them stay elsewhere for the duration of the renovation.
MAKE PLANS FOR CHILDREN
Demolition work is extremely noisy and messy. Young children are best out of the house during this phase. Consider taking a holiday or staying with relatives if possible. Have conversations with the kids about what to expect with different contractors entering the house and zones which are off limits.
CHAT TO THE NEIGHBOURS
It’s always best to be courteous and have a chat with the neighbours about your expected project timeline so they can prepare for the additional noise, cars and tradespeople in the street.
FLOOR PROTECTION
Prior to commencement of the job, Retreat Design will prep the working areas of the home with floor protection.
DON’T LOSE TRACK OF THE END RESULT
Keep a positive attitude! Whether you decide to stay home during the remodel or take the opportunity to holiday with your family, these few weeks of inconvenience are well worth the end result of a fabulous new kitchen.
Retreat Design are experts when it comes to renovations. We have been in the business for over 15 years and have the experienced team to make your next project a success. For more information on kitchen renovations or to schedule in a meeting with our designers, give us a call on (08) 6101 1190.
