Key Questions to Ask Before Starting Your Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel
Remodelling a kitchen or bathroom is one of the most exciting—and challenging—projects you can take on in a home. Whether you’re self-building, renovating, or finally adding those finishing touches, careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth project and a space you’ll love. Here are the top questions to ask before ripping out your bathroom or kitchen which could each save you time, money, and potential headaches.
1. What’s My Budget and How Strict Is It?
Setting a budget is your first step before tackling any remodel, especially for kitchens and bathrooms, where costs can quickly spiral. Be realistic about your total budget, including a 10–20% buffer for unexpected expenses.
Tips to stay on budget:
Prioritise big-ticket items first, like appliances and plumbing fixtures.
Decide if there are areas where you can use budget-friendly alternatives without compromising quality, such as laminate countertops instead of granite.
Make sure you communicate your budget clearly to any contractors or designers involved.
Couple sitting at computer working out project budget
Pro tip: A realistic budget can also help you avoid that all-too-common dilemma where you’re halfway through a remodel and realise you’re running out of funds.
2. How Will I Use This Space?
It may sound simple, but considering how you actually use your kitchen or bathroom can prevent design regrets. Ask yourself who will be using the space and for what. Do you want a kitchen where you can entertain, or is functionality and storage your top priority? Is your bathroom an place for relaxation, or is it a high-traffic, family-friendly space?
Key considerations:
Kitchens need efficient flow and storage, especially around cooking and cleaning areas.
Bathrooms benefit from practical storage, easy-to-clean surfaces, and well-planned layouts.
Pro tip: List your needs and wants, prioritising functionality and daily use over aesthetics alone.
3. What Layout Works Best for the Space?
Choosing the right layout is essential for maximising functionality in both kitchens and bathrooms. Consider the “work triangle” in kitchens—positioning the sink, cooker and fridge in an efficient triangle can save you a lot of hassle. For bathrooms, layout affects everything from accessibility to storage and privacy.
Popular layouts to consider:
Kitchens: U-shaped, L-shaped, galley, or open-plan with an island like mine.
Bathrooms: Single-wall, galley, or corner layouts, which offer flexibility depending on space.
Pro tip: Sketching a floor plan or using a digital planner can help you visualise potential layouts and make the most of the space.
Sketch of a kitchen design
4. What Style Am I Aiming For?
Deciding on a style early on can help guide your choices on materials, fixtures, and finishes. Consider the overall feel of your home—do you want a seamless look or something that stands out? Popular styles include contemporary, farmhouse, minimalist, and industrial.
Style considerations:
Ensure that your kitchen or bathroom complements the rest of the house.
Keep in mind that trend-driven designs may not age as well, so balance trend with timeless elements.
Pro tip: Creating a mood board can help you refine your style preferences and make choices that align with your vision.
5. Which Materials Best Suit My Lifestyle?
The materials you choose for surfaces and finishes should align with your lifestyle, budget, and maintenance preferences. Kitchens and bathrooms face daily wear and tear so durability is crucial.
Material choices:
For kitchens, look at countertops (like quartz or granite), flooring (polished concrete, tiles or hardwood) and cabinetry (solid wood or composite).
In bathrooms, opt for water-resistant materials like ceramic or porcelain tiles, quartz or laminate countertops and vinyl flooring or tiles.
Pro tip: Low-maintenance materials like quartz and porcelain tiles can save you both time and money over the years.
Selection of tile choices for kitchen and bathroom
6. How Can I Maximise Storage?
Storage can make or break a functional kitchen or bathroom. Plan storage solutions early to avoid clutter and ensure everything has a place.
Storage solutions:
Kitchen: Deep drawers, pull-out pantry shelves, vertical storage and built-in cupboards.
Bathroom: Vanity storage, shelving, wall-mounted cabinets and built-in shower niches.
Pro tip: If you’re working with a smaller space, use vertical storage and built-in options to maximise every inch.
7. What Are My Lighting Needs?
Lighting is critical in both kitchens and bathrooms as it affects functionality and ambiance. Aim for layered lighting to cover task, ambient and accent needs.
Types of lighting:
Kitchens: Use pendant lights over islands, under-cabinet lighting for task work and recessed lighting for general lighting.
Bathrooms: Focus on vanity lighting (side lights work best for minimal shadows) and add ambient lights or ceiling fixtures.
Pro tip: The location for lights is required early in the project as your electrician will have to install the appropriate wiring at first fix electrics.
Black kitchen with kitchen island, pendant lights and accent shelf lighting.
8. Do I Need Upgraded Plumbing or Electrical?
Remodelling can uncover plumbing or electrical needs, especially in older homes. Kitchens and bathrooms need adequate power for appliances, lighting, and ventilation, so ensure your electrical capacity meets the building control/code requirements of your country.
Upgrades to consider:
Kitchens: If adding high-powered appliances, ensure you have sufficient circuits and outlets.
Bathrooms: Plan for dedicated outlets, especially if you’re adding heated towel rails, electric showers, or high-powered lighting.
Pro tip: Bringing in a qualified electrician or plumber can prevent costly issues down the line.
9. Am I Considering Sustainability?
Sustainable choices can benefit both your budget and the environment. Look for eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient options.
Sustainable choices:
Use recycled or reclaimed materials when you can.
Choose energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to reduce energy consumption.
Install low-flow taps and showerheads to conserve water in bathrooms.
Pro tip: Sustainability doesn’t have to mean compromising on style—many eco-friendly options are stylish and budget-friendly.
10. What’s My Timeline, and Am I Being Realistic?
Timelines are crucial in any remodel, but kitchens and bathrooms can have unique delays due to custom cabinetry, materials and fittings. Be realistic about how long the remodel will take, especially if you’re coordinating multiple trades.
Typical timelines:
Kitchens: Generally 6–12 weeks, depending on complexity and material availability.
Bathrooms: Usually 4–8 weeks, depending on custom fixtures and structural work.
Pro tip: Factor in some flexibility for delays, especially if you’re waiting on special orders or custom items.
11. Should I Hire a Professional or Go DIY?
Finally, decide how much you’ll handle yourself and where you’ll bring in the pros. DIY can save money but some jobs require a skilled touch, especially in complex spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
Pros of hiring professionals:
They bring experience and often complete work faster and to a higher standard.
For electrical, plumbing and structural work, hiring licensed tradespeople ensures safety and compliance.
Pro tip: Consider managing the project but hiring professionals for key tasks like plumbing, tiling, and cabinetry installation.
Modern grey kitchen with ambient lighting
Conclusion
A kitchen or bathroom remodel is a big commitment, but asking the right questions can help set you up for success. By carefully considering budget, layout, style, materials, and hiring needs, you’ll create a space that not only looks fantastic but works perfectly for your lifestyle. Taking the time to plan ahead makes all the difference so you can avoid common pitfalls and create a kitchen or bathroom you’ll love for years to come.
Download my free guide here for more key questions to consider before your start your kitchen reno.