While kitchen facilities can be a nightmare financially, there is no denying that it is the focal point of the home. This common ground deserves all the attention and expense. A wise investment, in addition to the style factor that is so important these days, earnings play an important role. Property values will increase significantly, if the opportunity arises to sell and relocate, perhaps to greener pastures.
Start planning!
It is important to be clear about what is expected of the new kitchen. Perhaps the layout of the old kitchen was limited. The smart space utility would change it. Structural alterations may be necessary. If necessary, a window and door may need to be covered if they get in the way. Plan the location of the kitchen, countertop, and floor storage units, sink, and top shelves. Size matters for sure and older homes traditionally have smaller kitchen spaces, maybe 4m X 3m. It would be a test of your imagination to find out what goes where.
Draw a detailed floor plan to scale to visualize what the arrangements would look like. What design would be feasible? Ventilation is crucial and lighting is crucial. By covering the windows and the door, I now have two full walls. French doors would lead to the back garden.
Budget reasons made us decide that the plumbing expense can be reduced by keeping the countertop and sink in the same position. The refrigerator would remain where it was and the possibility was more cabinets and workspace with two walls. A breakfast bar would also serve as a work table. With the sketch ready, the work could begin.
Installing the cabinets
You can imagine the disaster while the builders were working. Together with the plumber, the electrician and the plasterer they did their work. He was busy planning the positions of the closet. I know carpentry and I would save some expenses with kitchen furniture from IKEA. DIY experience helps.
At the end of the sink would be the L-shaped breakfast bar with two stools. The extra space came from the washing machine that was now in the bathroom.
The cabinets went next to the stove on the wall and floor, under the sink and above the sink. Pans, pots, and oven dishes should be conveniently close to the cooking area.
A feeling of open air
Together with the French doors leading to the rear garden, an awning would create larger dimensions of space and merge the interior and exterior environments.