The past few years have seen a significant rise in home improvements, with more than 60 per cent of homeowners (according to the Office of National Statistics), deciding to remain and renovate rather than move.

Carefully-considered renovations, as well as offering you immediate benefits, can add extra value to your property.

The kitchen is the heart of the home and is no longer used for the sole purpose of preparing food — it is therefore an obvious place to invest.

A well-designed, updated kitchen will increase the value of your property, with more than a third of estate agents agreeing this is by far the best investment when it comes to home improvement.

Kitchen Considerations 

Set yourself a budget proportionate to the value of your home. If you invest too heavily versus the value of your property, you simply won’t get a return on your investment. Likewise, if you cut corners it can result in a poor job that does not live up to your hopes, or future buyers’ expectations.

For lower house values, DIY is possibly the best approach financially. If executed efficiently, a fresh lick of paint and new handles can really transform a tired kitchen. 

For rooms that require structural reconfiguration, or unique/period properties with quirky features and layouts, it is worth instructing an experienced kitchen design company. 

They will know how best to approach the project and help you to create a room  in keeping with the style and value of your property, working to an agreed budget.

A further consideration is whether a made-to-measure model will work, or if a bespoke kitchen design will do the project the most justice.

Although admittedly a larger investment, a bespoke kitchen provides greater flexibility, allowing you to influence every stage of the design process, resulting in the perfect space for your needs.

Making the transformation happen

Finally, before seeking quotes and designs, take time to consider our three top tips for planning your new kitchen:

1. Write a wish list
Before you consider anything to do with the style of your kitchen, it is crucial to understand what needs to fit into your new space. 

Spend time going through what is in your current kitchen and pull together a list of necessities to be included in your new room — appliances, seating and storage.

2. Pick your style
Classic or modern, choose the design carefully, to ensure the look fits seamlessly with the rest of your home and evolves with any changes in trends over time. 

3. Split the room into key zones
When planning the layout of your kitchen, it is helpful to split the room into key zones where different tasks will take place. 

Having specific areas within the kitchen for cooking, entertaining guests and even for children to do homework, means the new room will function well, as all areas will have a specific purpose, without any dead space.

Richard Davonport is managing director and owner of Davonport, 0845 468 0025, davonport.com

Davonport designers work with you to ensure your new kitchen perfectly fits your lifestyle. From cabinetry style to oven height, each feature is designed exclusively for you.