Start early when planning a new kitchen for Xmas

Consumers looking at new kitchens with a view to making over this part of their property in time for Christmas may need to start planning now.

Speaking to the Detroit News, Wayne Weintraub of US firm Kurtis Kitchen and Bath Centers says it is important to begin thinking about a new kitchen design as soon as possible - especially if it is likely that things like cabinets will need to be specially ordered.

He also recommends sticking to a particular kitchen design once it has been drawn up, rather than making changes to it later on and risking delaying the completion of the project.

"People think if they decide to change from a single-bowl sink to a double sink that it won't affect the timeframes, but that little change impacts the plumbing and countertops," Mr Weintraub notes.

Rachael Liska of Fresh Home magazine recently advised in a Minneapolis Star Tribune article that consumers should give careful thought to the layout and storage options associated with their new kitchen.

They may also want to consider the availability of power points in the locations where appliances will go and the adequacy of the lighting they have chosen.