Bathrooms
Planning A Kitchen or Bathroom Reno? Start Here!
Updated on November 22, 2022
Designer Gillian Atkins of Lynda Reeves Design Studio gives us a step-by-step guide for planning a renovation you’ll love. Before you start your kitchen or bathroom project, scroll through to see Gillian’s top renovation advice on everything from budget to style and resale value.
To see Gillian’s own three-month, budget-friendly kitchen renovation, click here!
1. Start With Function
It’s really important to think about how you and your family spend time in the space. If you know you like to eat at the island, that’s an important consideration. If you have multiple chefs, consider how you want to work together. Do you always eat at the dining room table? Do you need a prep area that’s separate from the main cooking area?
2. Make Room For What You Need
In the bathroom, are two people ever going to brush their teeth at the same time? Do you want to dedicate that space to a second sink — or would you rather have a huge counter? Careful planning will ensure that you design a space that works for your household.
3. Think About Style
Look at inspiration pictures you’ve saved from House & Home. Pinterest is a great start, but take the time to physically print them out and tack them on a board. Lynda Reeves always insists on this, and she’s right. When you look at all your images every time you walk past, you’ll start to hone in and realize you’re printing the same thing over and over. When you’re on your fifth white kitchen, you’ll think: “huh, maybe I really want a white kitchen.” That’s how you’ll narrow down what your style is.
4. Draft A Wish List
Work backward from what is most important to you. Is having a fancy standalone tub vital? Then start there. Are cabinets the most important thing to you? Is it beautiful marble tile?
5. Think Big
Once you determine what top’s your wish list, think of it as your big-ticket item. Is it a top-of-the-line gas stove or other appliances? If so, start there in order to stay on budget. “I knew I wanted a big island, lots of storage and no traditional upper cabinets, but the rest of the design unfolded organically,” says Gillian of her own kitchen.
6. Look For Savings
If you can’t move your plumbing, appliances or vent, that will help you. If your basic layout is working and you can keep your major appliances in their existing locations, that will save you a fair amount of money.
7. Think About Resale Value
I always encourage clients to consult with a realtor before doing any renovations. It’s just smart business. If you think your life may change in the next five to 10 years, you need to renovate according to that plan. You should know how much investment the value of your home can sustain and still give you a decent return. Have an agent come in and value your house as it is, and then assess and project the value with a new kitchen and bathroom. Then you can set your budget knowing you could recoup it upon selling.
8. Have The Money Talk
If you use a designer, be open and honest about your budget. Talking about money can be awkward for people, but it will save your designer time, and you won’t incur fees for those hours he or she spends probing and guessing. Communicate frankly with your designer about what you can realistically afford.
9. Get The Right Help
Use word of mouth to find a designer. Do you know someone who had a successful Kitchens Perth renovation? Ask for a referral. Meet with at least two people before making a decision. You’ll spend a lot of time with this person, so find someone you communicate well with. Be sure to have a contract with all the terms spelled out. These are the keys to having a successful project.
10. Never Really Finish
Allow your space to develop over time. You may find a beautiful rug on a trip, or artwork at a flea market. Let the room to grow organically.
House & Home Kitchens + Baths 2021