Emily's journey to her dream kitchen is a tale of vision, perseverance, and a touch of DIY spirit. When she and her husband, Steve, moved into their new property, they knew a spacious, open-plan kitchen-diner was at the top of their list.
But turning that vision into a reality, especially with a one-year-old in tow, was a renovation adventure that taught them invaluable lessons. For anyone embarking on a similar project, Emily’s story is a source of inspiration and a guide to creating a bespoke look without the bespoke price tag.
The project was ambitious, involving significant building work to create the open-plan space they envisioned. "Tackling the renovation with a one-year-old in tow was no easy feat," Emily admits. "By the time the project was complete, we were more than ready to say goodbye to our trusty air fryer and enjoy the comfort of a fully functioning kitchen once again."
What started as a 12-week project quickly evolved into a 5-month marathon, a common tale for any seasoned renovator. The couple had to learn a lot along the way. "While Steve has always been a DIY enthusiast, this project pushed us to develop new skills - from understanding building regulations and planning layouts, to getting hands-on with design software for the kitchen," Emily explains. "It was a steep learning curve at times but incredibly rewarding to see it all come together."
Unexpected challenges are almost a guarantee in any renovation. For Emily and Steve, a major hurdle appeared when they removed the internal walls and ceilings. "We discovered that the wooden joists were damaged by damp and woodworm and didn’t meet building regulations for supporting a sky lantern," she recalls. "This meant replacing all the joists and the entire ceiling before we could move forward." Fortunately, a contingency in their budget saved the day, a crucial tip for any aspiring renovator!
When it came to the aesthetics and functionality of the kitchen, one material stood out as the undisputed star: quartz. "When choosing kitchen worktops, we wanted something practical enough to handle a busy kitchen with a toddler and plenty of mess, without compromising on style," says Emily. "Quartz turned out to be the perfect balance — ultra-durable, easy to clean, and a finish that really elevates the look and feel of the kitchen. You can feel that it is built to last unlike other materials that might wear quickly."
The choice of Minerox Siena Gold quartz was a masterstroke in design. "Quartz adds a sleek, polished finish and a touch of luxury without being over the top," Emily notes. "The subtle detailing makes the space feel brighter and more refined. We have gold accessories throughout the kitchen, so the Siena Gold ties everything together beautifully."
Interested in a Siena Gold worktop for your kitchen? Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote today.
For those wanting a bespoke kitchen without the hefty price tag, Emily’s advice is simple: "Shop around and don’t settle for the first quote you’re given." The couple opted for an online kitchen retailer, which meant they were responsible for the design and measurements. While this was initially a daunting task, it gave them the creative freedom to design a kitchen that was a perfect fit for their needs and vision, all while staying within budget.
No renovation is without its learning moments. "I’d try to be more patient with the process," Emily reflects. "Renovations always take longer than expected, and living through the disruption can be tough. If we did it again, I’d factor in more time (and maybe a temporary kitchen setup!) to make the experience less stressful."
Every dream kitchen has a standout feature, and for Emily, it’s the mantel. "Our favourite design feature has to be the kitchen mantel as it adds a real sense of grandeur, giving the space a refined, high-end finish," she says with pride. "It’s a striking focal point, that adds balance to the room, and I love the character it brings to the overall design."
Emily's kitchen renovation is a testament to what can be achieved with careful planning, a willingness to learn, and a clear vision. Her journey showcases that with savvy choices, like the durable and stylish quartz kitchen worktops, and a bit of DIY determination, creating the heart of your home can be a rewarding and achievable dream.
Interested in a quartz worktop for your kitchen? Get in touch for a free, no obligation quote today.
Arctic Starburst
Aspen Ice
Capri White
Calacatta Gold Superior
