Planning your new kitchen

Here are some points to consider when planning your new kitchen:

• Try to keep existing service points when planning as rewiring and plumbing are costly.

• Think about ventilation points and do not plan units over them.

• Sink units and worktop drainers need to be planned first as these are the biggest items, and don't forget about dishwashers.

• When measuring, if the unit is to fit in a particular space, or when the unit needs to join onto another, take care to get the exact size.

• Consider whether the worktop needs to be flush sided to go against the wall or rounded at the corners if it's to go on a freestanding unit.

• Plan in your main areas – sink, cooker and food preparation – close together.

• Note any height restrictions like low or sloping ceilings, if wall units or tall cupboards are planned.