1. Making inaccurate kitchen measurements
This is a common kitchen planning mistake, and can cause huge problems further down the line. Measure the dimensions of your space in millimetres for accuracy, and do it at least twice to be sure your measurements are correct.
2. Fail to plan…
…plan to fail! Sketching out rough ideas on scrap paper is bound to lead to kitchen planning mistakes. Download IKEA's kitchen planning software and fit your kitchen plans to the exact measurements of your space.
Download the Kitchen Planner
3. Blowing your kitchen budget
Failing to stick to your budget is a big mistake when it comes to kitchen planning. It's very easy to be extravagant when imaging the kitchen of your dreams, but try to be realistic about what you can afford.
Find out about IKEA finance services
4. Over-economising
There's no point planning a new kitchen if you aren't going to end up with a high quality result. Make sure you can afford to install a kitchen that is durable and to your taste.
5. Planning your kitchen for someone else
Trying to keep up with the Joneses when planning your new kitchen is a big mistake. Just because next door has installed an enormous fridge freezer, it doesn't mean you need or want one. Your kitchen plan should be all about your individual preferences and making the space your own.
6. Ignoring your work triangle
You may have your own ideas about where your appliances would look best in your new kitchen, but just be sure to remember the work triangle. Good kitchen planning is reliant on ergonomics, not aesthetics.
See our tips on kitchen layout
7. Hiring the cheapest kitchen fitters
Found a kitchen fitter who is hugely under-priced? Then they're probably too good to be true. Choose someone with a good reputation who is within your budget.
8. Underestimating kitchen planning timescales
As with all large home improvement projects, planning and fitting a kitchen takes time. Complications can spring up at any point that will further delay the process. Don't make the mistake of trying to plan your kitchen remodel in a tight timescale – it will make the process far more stressful.
9. Assuming kitchen appliances will fit
One of the most common reasons for people returning an appliance is that they've made the mistake of assuming it will fit into their new kitchen. Appliances differ in size and shape between the brands, and won't necessarily fit into the space you've allocated for them in your plans. So make sure they measure up before you buy.
10. Overestimating your kitchen space
Your dream kitchen may come in the shape of a huge open-plan space, but unfortunately, this may not be feasible in your current home. Unless you plan to embark on major structural remodelling, be realistic when planning your new kitchen.
How do I? Kitchen fitting
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