Decorating workbook: what kind of kitchen is for you?

Is the kitchen used for more than just cooking? Do you also use it for entertaining, studying or bookkeeping? If this is the case you may need a larger eating area or desk.

Affording your renovation: What's it going to cost? First you'll need to ask yourself this: Will it be a minor makeover or a complete remodel? This is where the budget will rule. Set a limit on what you can afford to spend. From your answers above, decide what you need, what you want and what you can afford.

What appliances can be salvaged? You can save yourself a lot of money by working current appliances into the design of your new kitchen. If it's just the colour that no longer works - appliances can be either painted with special appliance paint or refinished. If this is the route you decide to take, you should consult a pro about refinishing an appliance.

Have you priced appliances lately? Fridge-freezers can easily cost £1,000 (or more) and dishwashers are a few hundred pounds. Is this something you need?

Do you need new countertops? One way to upgrade a kitchen and achieve a fresh look and feel is to replace the countertops. A solid surface such as Corian or the newer Zodiaq make a fabulous addition to any kitchen and is extremely easy to care for. Another inexpensive way to change the colour of your countertops is to place contact paper over your existing tops and laminate them.

Have you thought about painting your kitchen? The easiest way to transform a room is to give it a new coat of paint. Do you like textures more than solids? Then try browsing wallpaper patterns. You would be surprised how quickly a room changes when the walls are redone.

Getting the Job Done:
Should you hire a contractor or do it yourself? The expense of the project and your skill as a do-it-yourselfer will determine if you can take on the job yourself. Redoing a kitchen requires carpentry, plumbing and electrical experience.

Just as important is your time. Do you have a block of time that can be set aside to do the job, or would it be best to hire someone? Remember, in redo-ing your own kitchen, especially if it involves heavy renovation, you will be the general contractor, and you'll have to figure out what materials you'll need and when to schedule deliveries.

Either way, good luck and try to relax and enjoy the process! It can be very exciting if you go at it with a positive attitude.