There are many different styles of kitchens available on the market with varying price tags. However, there are a number of factors to take into consideration BEFORE you part with your hard-earned cash.

What type of budget do you have? Do you need to start from or can you update certain aspects?
What type of kitchen would suit your lifestyle, home or family?
Would you prefer a fitted kitchen as oppose to a dresser?
Is the current position of your kitchen within your home the best place for it or do you need to relocate it to make full use of the space within your home?
Will a new extension be required to house the kitchen?
Do you need a separate dining area?
Does it need to open up into the living area?
Do you need to provide an area for the children? Are areas for play, homework, needed? Can you keep an eye on the children? Will the areas be safe for them? Are dangerous items out of their reach?
How much cooking will need to do?
Do you intend to use the space for entertaining? If so, do you prefer to have your guests interact with as you prepare your meals?
Do you prefer small diner parties?
How much storage do you need? Do you shop weekly, monthly etc.
Do you like to have your utensils on show or do you prefer to everything to out of sight.
How much work surface area will you require? Make sure you have enough for food preparation, resting saucepans and dishing up.
Do you prefer these areas to be made of wood, granite, natural stone, slate, splash backs, concrete, laminate or stainless steel? Are you prepared to have the surfaces treated regularly to keep them in tiptop condition?
Would you like the materials used to be eco-friendly?
Do you need any additional sinks /draining areas? What style of taps will you need? Is a water softener required?
Will you be able to access your fridge, sink and cooker in a triangular movement easily? Its important not to put your fridge/ freezer next to your cooker.
Are the fridge/ freezer large enough for you and your familys needs?
Do you need a dishwasher? You maybe be able to buy a compact one if your kitchen is small. However, they can cost the same price as a full size one.
Would you like your fridge/ freezer & dishwasher to be built in?
Would you like a built in oven with a separate hob or would you like a freestanding cooker?
Does the idea of having a range cooker fit into you scheme or can a basic cooker do? Are you willing to learn how the controls work? Do you prefer gas or electric?
Dou you need space for the laundry or can you relocate it in a utility area?
Do you need to change the layout of the electrics or plumbing? If so, factor the cost of relocating them in your budget. Make sure reputable trade people who can provide you with the legal documentation carry out the work. Otherwise, you may have problems when it comes to selling your property.
Is any new appliance water efficient? Are you on a water meter?
Is any new appliance energy efficient?
Will you need extra lighting? You need to consider the different situations that may arise in the kitchen. Lighting for work areas, creating the right ambience and such like will need some thought given to.
What type of flooring will you need? Do you prefer wood, stone, slate, tiles, lino, vinyl, rubber, cork or concrete? Some surfaces, will not give you a second chance if breakable objects fall on them.
Will the kitchen be easy to keep clean?
What colours do you want?
Do you require any accessories?

When you see you dream kitchen come to fruition- enjoy!