by Vanessa Cobb

Created on: June 17, 2008   Last Updated: January 22, 2009

Which room is at the heart of your home?
For many of us, there's no contest.
Families gather, children grow and even best-selling novels can begin their lives, all at a kitchen table.

Revitalising your kitchen can do more for quality family life than the most exotic of holidays. So if you're planning to replace your kitchen units, here are ten steps to help you create your perfect outcome.

1. Make Your Wish List

Just for now, forget the cost. After all, imagining the finished result is your blue sky moment, so enjoy it! There'll be plenty of scope for adjustment later and probably some room for negotiation, so make your style statement number one on the priority list. Find images that express your vision and use these to add design features that can kindle your enjoyment of the room for years to come.

2. What is Absolutely Essential?

Let's consider the basics. These need to be in place to ensure the kitchen functions well for everyone. Decide which appliances you need to store in the kitchen, and how you want them to look. After all, a stylish finish to the kitchen cabinetry could include concealed appliances.

3. Measure Up

You'll need to draw a simple sketch of your plan, so grab some graph paper, a pencil and a quality tape measure. When you measure the space, try not to become too attached to the four walls of the room. A well considered plan that introduces unconventional angles can enhance a space and add flair. Above all, watch out for the flow of light. Shadows can add texture when used sparingly, but they will overpower a smaller space and need to be restricted to the less functional areas.

4. Walk Your Triangle

The traditional starting point in kitchen design is to imagine a triangle from the hob to the fridge to the sink. This is the path the chef of the house will walk most frequently so it makes sense to keep the distances in proportion. Between the points of the triangle, your three key areas should be separated: food preparation, food serving and wet activities.

5. Choose a Robust Cabinet

A good cabinet will be secured with cam and dowel, not tacked together with pins. The shelf will run all the way to the front of the cabinet and the back will be at the back, not leaving a gap of several inches to the wall. Each unit will be made of solid wood or of high density chipboard, at least 18 mm thick. A flimsy plywood shelf, for example, is an early warning of trouble in store.

6. Cabinet Fixings

Good hinges are vital to the long life of the kitchen. If the door

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