Undertaking a kitchen renovation is a substantial project that requires careful planning and attention to detail. In Australia, the kitchen is often seen as the heart of the home, serving as both a functional and social space where families gather. This makes kitchen design especially important, as it must be practical while also creating a welcoming atmosphere. Moreover, given the kitchen is one of the most frequently used spaces, its design should be timeless, ensuring you don't grow weary of it over time.
No matter how much we want to share our range of kitchen tiles with you, choosing the right tile is only a part of the story when renovating a kitchen. Even the best tile in the world has to be complemented with great interior design to make it shine. Therefore, Tilemall talks through everything you need to know before you start your kitchen renovation in this blog.
Tip #1: Check your budget for your kitchen renovation project
Renovating your kitchen in Australia can be an expensive project to undertake, so it is important to determine the amount of budget that you would like to spend on it. The budget will need to cover the installation costs, labour costs, kitchen appliances, kitchen floors, kitchen tiles and so on. Besides, the cost of renovating a new kitchen is highly dependent on the level of design you are looking to achieve.
If you are looking for a high end kitchen, then you will need to prepare for more budget for the renovation. Therefore, it is important to calculate the cost of where you want to spend your hard-earned cash and where you want to cut costs before renovating. You can start sourcing quotes from local tradespeople to get a sense of current market rates.
Kitchen tiles can play a big part in your overall costs, whether you're tiling the floor, backsplash, or walls. If you're after a sleek, modern aesthetic, large-format tiles can offer a seamless look with fewer grout lines. However, more intricate designs, such as mosaic tiles or handmade subway tiles, may add a luxurious touch but will require more of an investment.
It's important to make a distinction between areas where you’re willing to spend and where you can cut back. For instance, premium tiles on a statement kitchen island might be worth the splurge, while more affordable flooring tiles could help keep your costs under control. Start by gathering quotes from local tradespeople and suppliers to get a clear idea of what the current market rates are. This approach will help you align your dream kitchen with your financial reality.
Tip #2: Think about your lifestyle
A household’s lifestyle and habits are the factors that you should consider before starting a renovation. If you are a keen chef, you should spend more money on buying the best and most updated appliances. You will also need larger storage in your kitchen, such as multi-tiered drawers, drawer organisers, corner cabinets and more. Backsplash tiles should also be one of your considerations as well.Â
Backsplash tiles, in particular, offer a great opportunity to introduce colour, texture, or patterns into your kitchen. Whether you opt for classic subway tiles or something more adventurous like herringbone or geometric patterns, the backsplash can act as the focal point of the room. Whatever your style, ensuring that your kitchen reflects how you live will make it a space you’ll enjoy for years to come.
However, if you seldom cook at home, you could devote a larger chunk of the budget to beautiful finishes, such as kitchen islands and stovetops decorated with natural marble tiles. Hence, it is important to plan the size and layout of the kitchen ahead based on your lifestyle to avoid moving any existing plumbing and appliances in future.
Tip #3: Consider where the tiles will be installed
You will need to decide where you want to install the tiles in your kitchen before you head over to your tile manufacturer. This is important because different tiles have their own functionality and are made for various surfaces. Tiles can be placed as a backsplash for your stove or by the wall near your cabinets, as well as your floors. So, if you know where you want them, you will find the suitable tile material for your kitchen.
When planning a kitchen renovation, you should think about the type of wall tiles and flooring you are looking for as they have a huge influence on the look of a home and it is not easily changed.
Keep in mind that whether you are looking at the tiles, flooring, timber or carpet, always choose the best option you can afford. A durable, good quality tile will not only wear well, but it will also stand the test of time and remain beautiful for a long time.
Additionally, consider how the colour and finish of the tiles will impact the overall feel of the kitchen. Lighter tiles can create a sense of space, making small kitchens feel larger, while darker tiles can add a touch of sophistication to a larger area. And don’t forget about grout—choosing a contrasting grout colour can highlight the tile layout, while a matching grout can give a more understated, cohesive look.
Regardless of where you choose to install tiles—whether on the floors, walls, or as a splashback—investing in high-quality materials is key. Durable kitchen tiles will not only stand the test of time but also remain easy to maintain and visually appealing for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a kitchen renovation in Australia?
A: The cost of kitchen renovations can vary significantly depending on factors such as design complexity, materials, and location. It's essential to obtain quotes from multiple contractors and consider the cost of high-quality tiles, which can significantly influence the final appearance.
Q: What's the best tile option for a kitchen backsplash?
A: Ceramic and glass tiles are popular choices for kitchen backsplashes due to their durability and easy cleaning. They offer a wide range of colours and patterns, allowing you to add a unique touch to your kitchen. Subway tiles are a classic and timeless option.
Q: Should I use the same tiles for the floor and walls in my kitchen?
A: While it's possible to use the same tiles for both, it's not always recommended. Floor tiles need to be more durable, so they're often thicker and heavier than wall tiles. However, if you want a cohesive look, you can use matching or complementary tiles, provided they meet the functional needs of each space.
Q: What are some budget-friendly tile options for kitchen renovations?
A: Ceramic tiles are a great cost-effective option. They come in various styles and finishes and can mimic more expensive materials like marble or stone. To save money, consider using premium tiles sparingly, such as on a feature wall or backsplash, and using more affordable tiles in less visible areas.
Q: How do I choose the right tile size for my kitchen?
A: The size of your kitchen tiles depends on the size of your kitchen and the desired design effect. Large-format tiles can make a smaller kitchen feel more spacious by reducing grout lines. Smaller tiles, like mosaics or subway tiles, work well as a backsplash or accent area. Always consider the room's dimensions and the visual effect you want to create.Â
Conclusion
A successful kitchen renovation hinges on careful planning and the right design choices. By setting a realistic budget, designing according to your lifestyle, and choosing the perfect tiles for your space, you can transform your kitchen into the heart of your home.Â
At Tilemall, we're dedicated to assisting you in finding the perfect tiles for your home. For additional tips and advice on kitchen and bathroom renovations, explore our comprehensive blog or contact our team for personalised guidance.
As one of the country’s leading tile stores, Tilemall exists to offer the best balance of quality and affordability available, and that takes a lot of work. It’s why our team is highly selective with the brands and materials we work with, ensuring that each of our tiles lives up to the high standard our customers have come to expect. Want to learn more about all things tiles, kitchens, and bathroomware? Explore the Tilemall tile blog for more up-to-date tips every month.
