Redesigning your Kitchens and Bathrooms – do’s and don’ts
A remodeling project in a home is both exciting and rewarding, but it seldom runs smoothly and can be frustrating if you are living there. Here are 5 simple, practical tips to ensure you achieve your dream kitchen and bathroom on time and with minimal stress and interruption.
Proactive planning
It is important when planning any remodel of your home to be thorough in your planning to prevent any delays. Get contractors that are reliable or have been referred and check their portfolio or previous completed jobs.
Determine:
- The style and look of your new dream space;
- Whether you wish to replace or relocate any fixtures or fittings or acquire additional items and where they will be positioned;
- Where any plumbing pipes or electrical wiring outlets are to be relocated.
- Ask professionals for advice.
Don’t forget, and maximise on
- Ventilation as it’s ideal for kitchens to have plenty of airflow. Damp conditions cause mould, which is hazardous to our health and can cause decay in wooden features;
- Natural light and add accent lights to create a warm ambience and to encourage indoor plant growth and greenery;
- Storage with cabinetry which is ergonomically designed and also adds aesthetic interest and appeal in the décor.
Shop online or visit bathroom and kitchen suppliers for contemporary ideas to aid your planning. Collect pictures and brochures, take photos and get the measurements and costs of your preferences. View Sonae Arauco’s stunning array of décors and finishes ideal for your bathroom or kitchen remodel:
https://www.sonae.projects.coppertable.co.za/applications/bathrooms/
Then measure your space, make a drawing of its new layout, including existing electrical and plumbing outlets.
Visit one of our suppliers here: https://www.sonae.projects.coppertable.co.za/contacts/distributors/
Always use professionals
Use the services of a professional designer for expert and practical advice on your design layout, your preferred products and their fit in your space.
If the designer cannot recommend a building contractor, plumber or electrician, then select a professional:
- Building contractor who is registered with accredited associations such as the Master Builders Association (MBA) https://www.masterbuilders.org.za/ or the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) https://www.nhbrc.org.za/.
- Plumber who is registered with the Institute of Plumbing SA https://www.iopsa.org/.
- Electrician who is registered with the Electrical Conformance Board of South Africa (ECB) https://ecb.org.za/.
Budget planning basics
Get at least 3 quotes from each contractor type. When you know the labour costs, you know what budget remains for your fittings, fixtures and accessories. It is recommended you allow 15% over your budget for any unforeseen expenses.
Order your fixtures and fittings early
Order all your essentials as soon as possible to ensure their availability and delivery will not hamper your project. If your chosen fixtures and fittings are not readily available, you may have to resort to Plan B.
Prepare for redesign
- Remove all loose, small miscellanea from your space and its cabinets.
- Create a clear access route for contractors to exit and enter your home that is wide enough for their equipment and the delivery of your fixtures and fittings. Protect the flooring with dust covers.
- Protect any nearby rooms from dust and rubble by shutting their doors or sealing off the doorways.
- Make alternative arrangements whilst construction is underway and the bathroom or kitchen is unavailable. Rather plan a temporary stay with friends or family!
Now you are ready for your remodel to begin. These 5 simple, practical tips should help you achieve a highly successful and pleasing bathroom or kitchen redesign.
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