Budgeting for your new kitchen

It’s easy to get carried away when thinking about the sort of kitchen you’d like. But the reality is, most of us have to stick to a budget.

That’s why it makes sense to create a plan to ensure that you get the most from the funds you have available.

What can you spend?

Cabinets and worktops are the backbone of the kitchen and usually take up the lion’s share of the budget. It pays to go for the best quality you can afford as they’ll offer durability and longevity.

But there is a wide range of cabinet options available, and lower or mid-price products may be perfectly adequate for your needs. Ask yourself what elements are important to you, and this will help you allocate your budget.

For example, if storage is your number one priority, take a look at extra-tall cabinets with smart storage accessories. However, you may be content with standard-sized cabinets but would like to spend more on the fronts.

The same goes for worktops. Take a look at what’s available in each price bracket, and then decide on your priorities. Do you want higher quality worksurfaces but shorter than you had before? Or will medium-range options be sufficient for your kitchen needs and allow you to have longer work surfaces?

What’s necessary and what’s not?

You may like the idea of relocating your sink or oven. But before you move your appliances around, think about how much benefit you’ll gain by having them in a different place.

If you have to move drains and pipework or install new gas or electrical fittings, the costs can start to stack up. Work out a list of potential changes and number them in order of priority.

Perhaps you can do the most essential work now and save the rest for a later date?

What can you reuse?

Do you need to replace all of your appliances? It will work out far cheaper if you can keep the ones you’ve got or just change one or two items.

If you do change your appliances, look for energy star rated products. Washing machines that use less water and energy can save money on running costs. Also, make sure the model you choose is likely to have a long lifespan.

The same goes for sinks and taps. Can you reuse the ones you’ve got? Or, if they need to be changed, could you find suitable reclaimed items such as butler sinks or second-hand taps.

Can you refresh with accessories?

Rather than replacing all the tiling, you can use splashbacks to bring colour to areas of the kitchen. Splashbacks are an affordable and practical way to brighten up a wall and make it heat and waterproof.

Simply adding some open shelving can give you additional space to store pots and pans. You can also use shelves to show off some of your attractive kitchenware, such as copper pots or painted crockery.

How much can you do yourself?

The more you can do yourself, the more you’ll have to spend. You may have some skilled family members or friends willing to help you out.

You might not be able to undertake plumbing or electrical tasks, but simple DIY and decorating may be feasible. Check out the range of products available at your local DIY store.

Cleaning the walls with sugar soap, lightly standing, and using a good primer can work wonders. That way, you’ll get a much better finish when you paint your walls.

We can help you plan your new kitchen

German Kitchen Store provides high-quality German kitchens at trade prices with an easy online ordering system.

The beauty of our ordering system is its simplicity. Choose the range, door style and colour – the process is easy. Carcases, accessories and appliance package options are clearly displayed, allowing you to build a kitchen that’s designed to your specifications.

Our customer service team is on hand to help with any questions or queries regarding your order and delivery.

Call us on 01525 851 642 or email hello@germankitchenstore.co.uk