Renovating your kitchen isn’t just a facelift - it’s a transformation of the heart of your home. It’s exciting. It’s full of possibilities. But let’s be honest - it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.

At Blackpool Kitchens & Bedrooms, we’ve helped hundreds of Cork homeowners navigate their kitchen renovations from start to finish. So, we’re sharing the real deal - the often-overlooked (but absolutely essential) things you need to consider before swinging a hammer or ordering that dreamy granite worktop.

Here’s what we wish every client knew before starting their kitchen journey.

1. Your “Why” Is More Important Than Your Pinterest Board

It’s easy to get swept away in mood boards and design trends. But before choosing anything, ask yourself:
Why are you renovating your kitchen?
Is it to add value to your home? Accommodate a growing family? Create a space to entertain?

Your “why” shapes everything - from layout to materials to budget. Design should follow function, not the other way around.

2. Layout Matters More Than You Think

You can have the most stunning kitchen in the world - but if the layout is off, it won’t work. Think about how you move through your space:

• Do you cook with others?
• Do you want a dining area?
• Is the bin too far from the prep zone?

We design with flow in mind - so your kitchen isn’t just beautiful, it’s effortless to use.

3. Budget Beyond the Basics

Set a clear budget - but leave some wiggle room. There are always unexpected costs (moving pipes, upgrading electrics, treating damp). A good rule of thumb:
 Allow 10–15% of your budget for contingencies.

And remember, investing in quality now saves you from paying twice later.

4. Know Your Timeline (and Be Realistic)

Good kitchens take time. From design and ordering materials to installation, a full renovation can take 6–10 weeks or more.

Take your time and plan around real life. Whether it’s Christmas hosting duties, a new baby on the way, or a family staycation, your renovation timeline should work with your calendar - not against it. Giving yourself that extra breathing room helps avoid stress and keeps the whole process enjoyable.

5. Appliances First, Cabinets Second

You’d be surprised how many people design their kitchen and then try to squeeze in appliances like an afterthought.

Always decide on your big appliances - oven, fridge, hob, extractor - before finalising your cabinetry. It avoids costly mistakes and awkward gaps.

6. Storage Is King (and Queen)

It’s not just about more storage. It’s about smarter storage:

• Deep drawers for pots
• Pull-out spice racks
• Hidden bins
• Tall larders

You’ll thank yourself daily for thinking this through.

Pro tip: mentally walk through your daily kitchen routine - where would you naturally want things to be?

7. Light It Like You Mean It

Lighting can make or break a kitchen. We always suggest a 3-layered approach:

1. Ambient – your main ceiling lights
2. Task – under-cabinet lighting for prepping and cooking
3. Accent – pendant lights or shelf lighting for mood

Never rely on one overhead bulb to do it all - it won’t.

8. Consider the Future You

Design your kitchen for how you’ll use it in 5 to 10 years, not just today.
 - Planning to stay long term? Think timeless design.
 - Expecting kids or grandkids? opt for wipeable, durable finishes.
 - Selling soon? Keep things neutral and universally appealing.

Your future self will be grateful.

9. Choose the Right Team (Spoiler: It’s Us 😄)

You don’t need to be an expert - that’s our job. At Blackpool Kitchens & Bedrooms, we guide you through every decision, from layout to lighting, and make the process smooth, exciting, and actually enjoyable.

Our Cork-based team handles everything in-house - design, fitting, project management - so you’re not chasing tradespeople or worrying about timelines.

Ready to Bring Your Kitchen Vision to Life?

Let’s make your dream kitchen happen - with no regrets and no stress.
📍 Visit our Cork showroom to chat with our design team
📞 Call Us today to book your Free Consultation