A well-prepared kitchen design brief should outline the space restraints, outline various aesthetic and functional preferences, provide a budget estimate, and determine the timeline for completion. It should also include necessary details for the design program, such as measurements, and highlight any specific items that will be included in the remodel.Factors to Consider When Creating a Kitchen Design Brief
Begin your kitchen design brief by detailing why you want to remodel your kitchen. It’s important to be specific when you’re writing your reasons. Examples of reasons could be to add better functionality for entertaining, achieve a certain look, or add specific amenities.Identifying Your Reasons for Remodeling
Your design brief should also address any aesthetic preferences you have for the kitchen. Focus on colors, materials, appliances, fixtures, flooring, and furniture you’d like to include. Additionally, if you’re looking for specific details, such as countertops that don’t need waxing or stoves with certain features, make sure to also include this in your brief.Outlining Your Preferences for Functionality and Aesthetics
Draw up a budget estimate for the entire kitchen remodel, and include it in your kitchen design brief. Set an overall amount for the remodel, and then break it down into further categories (e.g. appliances, plumbing fixtures, cabinetry, flooring, etc.). Your budget should also account for any additional costs (e.g. professional design services, design software, tools, and materials), as well as any unexpected expenses during the project.Including a Budget Estimate for the Remodel
Make sure to define the scope of work in your kitchen design brief. This should include any demolition work, any new installations or replacements, any alterations or changes to the existing layout, as well as any additional finishes and details.Defining the Scope of the Work Being Done
Your kitchen design brief should include necessary measurements of the kitchen space, such as the length and width of each wall, as well as the locations of doors and windows. It’s also important to include the sizes of any appliances you’ll be installing in your kitchen and the measurements of countertop material you plan to use.Including Necessary Details in Your Design Program
Including images of kitchens or kitchen designs that you like can help give your designer or contractor a better idea of the look you’re striving for. Whether you’ve found inspiration in a magazine, online, or from a friend’s kitchen, make sure to save all of these images and include them in your design brief.Including Visual Inspiration in Your Kitchen Design Brief
Items such as cabinetry, countertops, and tile can be expensive, so be sure to include an itemized list of these components in the kitchen design brief. Be sure to also include the brand and model of each item, as well as all installation and supplier related details.Creating an Itemized List of Installation Details for Your Kitchen Design Brief
Electrical and plumbing systems should be taken into consideration when you’re creating your kitchen design brief. Make sure to provide accurate specifications for all necessary components, as well as any additional fixtures (such as lights, outlets, and water lines).Accounting for Electrical and Plumbing Requirements Within Your Kitchen Design Program
A maintenance and cleaning plan outlines regular policies for the upkeep of your kitchen. This should include things like recommendations for the cleaning products and procedures to be used, as well as any products and procedures for taking care of any wood finishes, countertops, floors, and fixtures.Creating a Maintenance and Cleaning Plan for Your Kitchen Design Brief
Create a comprehensive timeline of the remodeling process, with estimated completion dates for each individual step. Include a description of each phase of the project (design, permits, demolishing, installation, etc.), as well as any milestones in the construction process (e.g. the laying of the foundation or the completion of the framing). Make sure to be realistic with your timeline, as unforeseen delays are bound to occur along the way.Creating a Comprehensive Timeline for Your Kitchen Design Brief