10 things to keep in mind before installing modular kitchen
Important points to remember before buying a new modular kitchen
BUYING A NEW KITCHEN?
Modular kitchens are practical, manageable and stylish. But, before you get carried away with all the amazing designs on offering. You need to pay attention to these technical aspects to have a hassle-free kitchen in your house.
Choosing a brand new kitchen is one of the most exciting projects when it comes to renovating the home. It can also be the most expensive, stressful and time-consuming. From picking the correct style to finding a designer and agreeing the layout. There’s a great deal to take on board. However tempted you are to rush into a showroom and choose your design. It’s vital that you take plenty of time to consider what it is you really want.
Breaking the planning process into manageable steps will make the process easier. Think of it as a journey, and give each progression all the time and consideration it needs.
Define your Shape
The design for a brand new modular kitchen depends a lot. On the kind of space available in your kitchen area. For example, if it is a smaller space, a parallel or straight kitchen would work as the best option. Else, the space will look cramped! Whereas, larger spaces can be planned with an L, U-shaped or ISLAND kitchen designs.
First, have a good clear-out, so you’re not factoring in items you haven’t used for years. Now take a look around your existing kitchen. And make a list of all the things you like and dislike about it. This could be anything from how much storage there is. And where it is – to the types of appliances and color of the cabinetry. This will help you focus on retaining or improving particular aspects.
Define the space available
Think about whether the actual space works or on the off chance that it needs opening up or extending. The most widely recognized building work involves knocking down a wall among kitchen and dining room. So consider creating a progressively open plan feel on the off chance that you have the chance.
It might help to ask yourself a few questions about how you want to use the space. Do you simply need a place to prepare meals. Or are you dreaming of a multi-functional area where you can also have lunch or dinner with family and friends? Who do you cook for, what do you cook and how do you cook it?
Think about plumbing and heating
Openings for electrical and plumbing points should be remembered before designing the space, especially for apartments. In case of an independent house, these can be planned in accordance to modular units. Guarantee an easy outlet for water. The kitchen ought to be sufficiently bright and ventilated.
Will you be using existing plumbing for sinks and appliances or will you require additional pipe work? If you’re planning to include a kitchen island containing a sink or other appliances in your design. You need to ensure that plumbing and electricity supplies are in place before flooring is laid. Work out where appliances, both big and small, are going to be to ensure. That you have plug points where you need them.
‘Wherever you decide to locate your sink. It’s a good idea to install your washing machine and dishwasher nearby,’ says Paul Gibbs, Kitchens Buying Manager, B&Q. ‘It’ll help keep plumbing simple.’
Underfloor heating is a popular choice for kitchens as radiators can take up valuable space. If you’re opting for underfloor heating, this will need to be installed prior to laying the kitchen floor.
Analyze storage requirements
Storage requirements need to be analyzed in order to plan drawers, shelf cabinets or tall units. The storage capacity depends a great deal on the usage pattern. Whether you stock perishables/supplies week by week, Month to Month. If your family comprises of elder people too, pull outs/ drawers should be convenient and easy to operate.
The counter top
Since it determines the longevity of the kitchen, the counter-top is one of the most important things that need your attention. The choice of material for the counter tops (marble, granite or engineered stone) depend on the type of cooking done in your house.
Choose good reflector colors
Kitchen important points before buying
Avoid dark hues like black and darker as they are bad reflectors of light. Utilize quality lighting on the two ceilings and the walls. And install advanced electric chimney over the cooking range for proper ventilation.
Drawers versus cabinets
Prefer sectional drawers over cabinets. For optimum use of the storage space and go for steel-wood combo for a longer life.
Plan a smooth working area
Space between work areas for cooking, washing and stocking ought to be all around planned. Otherwise it can end messing up the area. Ideally, these spaces ought to be three feet apart on the countertop to guarantee smooth working in the kitchen.
For the walls, appliances can be integrated into the kitchen again to minimize mess and give larger worktop area.
Consider lighting options
When planning lighting it’s a smart thought to make the framework very adaptable. So you can regulate areas of your kitchen independently. Secondary lighting, for example, spots above cooking and preparation areas, is also valuable.
Consider your kitchen unquestionable requirements. Do you long for smooth worktops, a statement island or loads of cupboards for storage? Or on the other hand are there some specific appliances. That you think will make your life in the kitchen a lot easier?
Everybody likes to work in their own particular way and each person has a different list of priorities. So it’s important to write yours down right at the beginning. To ensure your kitchen is tailored to your family’s specific needs. This will also save a lot of time and trouble. When it comes to discussing your project with a kitchen specialist.
Proper ventilation is a must
Ventilation and safety concerns ought to be remembered while planning your kitchen space. Ideally, large windows are recommended.
If there is a design or space challenge, then usage of adequate chimneys and exhausts can be an effective alternative.
Be inspired
How you want your kitchen to look is, obviously, a very exceptionally personal decision. It really gathers images and magazine tear sheets and set up together a scrapbook or disposition board. Also, make a note of surfaces, materials or accessories you’ve seen that function admirably together.
Even something as simple as a pretty plate, tile, piece of furniture or scrap of fabric. Can be a great starting point for choosing a theme or colors. Don’t worry too much about cost at this point. Just focus on things that inspire you, and soon you’ll be able to identify styles you are drawn to.
Consult a Kitchen Designer
To get the absolute maximum from your space, input from a professional kitchen designer can prove priceless.
Their experience and expertise will offer you plenty of simple ideas – as well as innovative ones – that you might not have even considered.
Kitchen designers will also have up-to-the-minute knowledge of products, fixtures and fittings, and can source everything on your behalf. Ultimately, they’ll help ensure your new kitchen works as efficiently as possible.
Modular Kitchen buying guide
Only agree on a quote for the design and installation of a kitchen once the designer has looked at the space. Once the design has been completed, make sure you have a full quotation for the cabinetry and installation. Always check what is included in the cost, including whether the company will oversee the project from start to finish.
Never pay a deposit of more than 25% of the total contract value and ensure you have a written schedule for further payments. Don’t pay in full until you have received delivery of your goods.
Visit a company that has a showroom. So you can inspect the quality of the item and the standard of installation. Choose a retail member with a track record of good installations and ask to speak to some previous customers.
Points to remember while selecting a modular kitchen
Be careful regarding paying in full for your kitchen in advance. You shouldn’t pay a deposit of more than 25%. And as it’s likely that you’ll be asked to make an interim payment, ask for a written payment schedule. Make sure you have a written quotation that covers every aspect of the job. Including fitting, flooring and any structural alterations you have discussed.
Try not to sign anything except if you are prepared to respect your side of the contract. A few terms and conditions have costly cancellation clauses.
Set your budget
Always be honest about your budget. So that your designer can help you decide where to save and where to invest. Even if you haven’t got large sums to spend. Open shelving is less expensive than closed cupboards. For example, while capacious low-level, pull-out storage may mean you need fewer wall units, which saves on cost.
It’s easy to get giddy when faced with a wealth of shiny appliances with countless programs and functions. So only invest in things you think you’ll genuinely use. And remember to include installation expenses, as well as the kitchen itself.
Kitchen important points before buying
Finally, make sure your budget includes a 10 per cent contingency fund, to cover any unexpected extra costs.
If you’re is a bind about where to splash the cash. Here are our top tips on where to spend and where to save:
Always go for the best worktops you can afford. As they are one of the most hardworking elements of any kitchen. Granite, composite and solid surfaces are all good investments as they are tough. Durable and will give your kitchen a luxurious finish.
Next, make sure your cabinets are of good quality. Don’t be tempted to skimp on thin carcasses, as they’ll not last very long. You want at least a 15mm thickness all round – if not more.
Important tips to buy modular kitchen New Delhi
Think about savings on your choice of doors. We can’t all afford rich wood veneers. So why not recreate the same look with a laminate or PVC foil finish instead? Even hi-gloss doors come in different price brackets depending on whether they are lacquered or laminated. ‘While they all essentially look the same. A lacquered kitchen can cost considerably more than the laminate equivalent,’ explains kitchen designer Sandeep Misri ( Delhi Modular Kitchen )
Spend wisely on appliances, too, buying the best oven and hob you can afford. But perhaps consider a less expensive brand for the laundry and do without the coffee machine and wine cooler.
It’s all about compromise if your budget is under strain. So make sure you spend on the things that matter. You can always add luxury small appliances and accessories in years to come.
Call in the professionals
So, you’ve found your kitchen designer, chosen your layout and style and you’ve paid your deposit. What happens next? You need to find a team to install it.
It’s important to remember that the way your kitchen is installed can make all the difference. A bad fitter can make any kitchen look terrible, but a good one will ensure even inexpensive units look amazing. Ask friends and family for recommendations, or choose Delhi Modular Kitchen.
It may be a simple refresh so you’ll only have the kitchen supplier and fitter to coordinator. However, if it’s a big project, then there might be builders, electricians and plumbers to consider, too. It’s important at this stage to get some form of project manager in hand. Whether that’s yourself, your kitchen company or an architect. Everyone need to be clear about what needs to be done when. As delays and mistakes in kitchen planning can be costly.
Modular Kitchen buying guide
Often your budget will dictate how much project management is needed. If you’re buying off the shelf from a DIY store. You’d expect to have to employ and co-ordinate an variety of craftsmen including builders, plumbers and electricians. A number of mid-price kitchen companies provide fitting services. But often you’ll have to get them to liaise with other trades for work outside their fitting remit. Always check with your kitchen company at the beginning about which services they can and can’t provide.
Even many bespoke companies will not undertake first-fit electrics or plumbing so you will have to co-ordinate these elements yourself. Some of the high-end bespoke companies do offer ‘turn key’ services. Where they will co-ordinate all building plumbing and electrical work but be prepared to pay a premium for this service.
Choose your finishing touches
Make your kitchen feel more coherent by subtly linking finishes. Pair a timber breakfast bar with wooden stools, for instance. Or upholster the seats with fabric that ties in with your splash back. Little details, such as cabinetry handles. Can make a big difference and transform a simple white scheme.
Rather than buying everything from the same supplier. Source furnishings and accessories from a variety of places, and mix things up to create an individual look. Unusual objects picked up on your travels or gorgeous vintage finds. Will all help to create a more homely and characterful environment.